THE DESIGN PROCESS
Residential design typically moves through several phases that guide a project from first idea to finished home. While the exact order can shift depending on the project, here are the six phases we follow:
1.PROGRAMMING
In this initial phase, we work closely with you to understand your goals, needs, and constraints. The focus is gathering information about the purpose of the home, spatial needs, budget, site conditions, and any specific functional or aesthetic preferences. This phase sets the foundation for every design decision that follows.
2. SCHEMATIC/CONCEPTUAL
DESIGN
In this phase, we translate your program into conceptual design solutions — exploring different layouts, developing preliminary sketches, and building diagrams or 3D models to illustrate overall form, spatial relationships, and flow. The goal is to establish a design direction that aligns with your vision before investing in detail.
3. DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Once a schematic design is approved, we move into design development — refining floor plans, elevations, sections, and other drawings, and coordinating with the structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing consultants on the project. Material selections, specifications, and cost estimates are also refined during this phase.
4. CONSTRUCTION
DOCUMENTS
In this phase, we prepare the construction documents — the working drawings that provide a comprehensive, coordinated set of information for the builder. These documents draw together the design, along with the structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and landscape work of our licensed consultants, at the level of detail needed for accurate construction and regulatory compliance.
5. PERMITTING & PRICING
During this phase, we assist you in selecting a contractor. Construction documents are typically sent out to multiple contractors for bidding, and we help evaluate bids, coordinate clarifications, and support a fair, competitive process — with the goal of selecting a qualified contractor who can deliver the project within your budget and timeline.
6. CONSTRUCTION ADMIN/OBSERVATION
Once a contractor is selected, we enter the construction administration phase — regular site visits to monitor progress, review shop drawings and material samples, respond to contractor questions, and help ensure construction aligns with the design intent. We act as a liaison between you and your contractor, helping resolve issues as they come up.
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These phases are iterative and interconnected, and how involved we are at each stage can vary by project and by agreement. Throughout, the goal is the same: close collaboration between you, your design team, and your contractor, from first concept to move-in day.