How We Work

We begin by documenting what’s there. For renovation projects, this includes detailed field measurements of the existing house—rooms, openings, and heights—combined with a property survey to create an accurate set of existing drawings.

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For new homes, this phase becomes a study of the site itself. We evaluate key conditions such as grading, orientation, access, vegetation, and any contextual or regulatory factors that may influence the design. This understanding helps define how the home can best respond to its surroundings.

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In both cases, this step establishes the foundation for all design decisions moving forward.

This is where the project starts to take shape. We develop initial layouts and concepts based on your goals, while also testing ideas that may push the project beyond the obvious solution.

 

Our intent is not just to meet the program, but to uncover opportunities—whether spatial, visual, or experiential—that can elevate the design.

 

By the end of this phase, we’re aligned on a clear and promising direction.

With a direction established, the design becomes more defined and technical. Plans are refined, materials and proportions are considered, and structural systems are coordinated.

 

If zoning approvals or variances are required, this is the stage where those drawings are prepared.

 

This phase concludes with your approval of the overall design.

We translate the design into a complete set of construction drawings used for permitting and contractor pricing.

 

These documents include all necessary information to build the project—structural systems, materials, layouts, energy compliance, and detailed instructions for construction—ensuring clarity and minimizing uncertainty during the build.

We remain involved throughout construction to help ensure the project is executed as intended.

 

A mandatory kickoff meeting is held with the selected contractor before work begins. This allows us to review the drawings together, clarify key details, and align expectations from the outset.

 

Our base level of construction involvement includes key milestone site visits, typically at:

• Post-framing, prior to concealment of critical elements

• Final walkthrough and project sign-off

 

These site visits provide important checkpoints to confirm that the work is progressing in accordance with the design intent and contract documents.

 

For clients who prefer a more continuous level of involvement, we also offer an expanded construction administration service. This may include more frequent site visits, coordination meetings with the contractor, and ongoing field review throughout construction. The level of involvement can be tailored to the complexity of the project and the needs of both the client and builder.

 

Additional site visits or enhanced services beyond the base scope can also be provided as needed as an additional service.