Our Process — Design & Construction

After the initial contact, we schedule a meeting to learn more about the project. This includes but is not limited to; scope of work, final goals of a project, budget, and timeline. During this meeting we get to know our clients’, their individual tastes, preferences, and dreams for their project. At this point in the process we are able to determine a rough cost per square foot estimate based on the client’s wants and determine if the project is feasible.

Prior to the start of the project and our design work, we create a unique proposal that caters to the specific wants and needs of each client and their budget. In the past we have done architectural feasibility studies that explore the possibilities of design and construction within a set budget, and we have also done full project proposals that extend well into construction and administration. Depending on what you are looking for, we adjust our scope of work for both design and construction.

After we have a signed proposal, we set up a site visit to both view and document the existing conditions for the project. During this step, we take photos and measurements to help us create a 3D computer model of the conditions, if applicable, typically for renovations or restoration projects. New and custom builds require a shorter site visit to determine any important views, site conditions, and seeing the proposed location for the structure(s). This is also when we review impacts of zoning, setbacks and easements.

Once the 3D model is completed, we begin the Schematic Design process which typically includes 3 design options. Often times we will have clients who like features and layouts from more than one iteration and we successfully combine them to meet the client’s needs. We then meet with the clients until everyone is satisfied with the design before moving on to the next stage.

With the initial layout and general design of the project worked out, we then move on to Design Development. This includes finalizing room dimensions, door and window sizes and locations, ceiling heights, plumbing and electrical details, cabinet details if applicable, and working through the Interior Finishes Package. There are countless material and fixture choices that can be overwhelming during the design process. If this additional service is selected by the client, we begin thinking about these options early on, keeping stylistic opinions and preferences in mind so our clients don’t have to. We compile all of the options into a document that is then reviewed with the clients and make changes as required.

Depending on the location, scope and size of the project, we may be required to consult a local structural engineer to receive approval for construction from the city. This requires an additional cost that would be outlined in the proposal.

At this point, we have what we need to begin creating the final Construction Documents. These are typically needed for larger construction projects and aid us in providing a precise construction estimate. These include the standard drawings required for permits and construction as well as any additional detail and structural drawings that may be needed for any special construction or features.

The main benefit of Design-Build is the seamless transition of your project to our construction team. The Construction Documents are passed along to our General Manager of Construction for estimating and budgeting. We aim to provide the most accurate estimates we can for construction projects we take on. During this time we will also establish a construction schedule and start date depending on our existing construction commitments. We also finalize the payment schedule, order materials and fixtures, secure subcontractors for the project and apply for the necessary permits for construction.

If our design team is hired for Construction Administration, we have regular site meetings where members of the design and construction teams meet with the clients to review the project. We go over the budget, schedule and progress of the project. This is also when changes and issues can be dealt with. Often times we run into complications during construction that require problem solving skills to ensure the final result or experience is achieved. If clarification is needed, we can create additional detail drawings for our construction team to translate into reality.

Our skilled team of craftsmen then complete the project within the specified timeframe as long as conditions allow. We aim to be transparent in our communication for the entire design and construction process. If an issue develops, we let our clients know immediately. so we can all deal with things before they become a problem.

After completing construction our design team will return for a punchlist to address any remaining issues and document the completed project.

Our Process - Construction

Our construction team can also operate independent of our design team. This is typically the case when we have clients who do not need design services for their projects and only estimation and construction services, which are usually smaller projects. The process is similar to above, but our clients meet directly with our General Manager of Construction for coordination of the initial meeting and documentation. If a project does not require Construction Documents, we are able to move directly into estimating, permitting and henceforth start construction once materials, schedules and budgets have been finalized. Contact us to get started.