Our process.
Whether you are building a new home or business space, understanding the architectural process helps your project run smoothly. Our eight-step approach provides structure and clarity. We listen, strategize, and deliver, creating spaces that enhance every aspect of life and work.
Step 1 — Initial Consultation
Understanding Your Vision
Every project starts with a conversation. We learn about your goals, site, timeline, and budget before any decisions are made. This is when we discuss your priorities, explain our process, and determine together if we are the right fit.
This conversation is complimentary and without obligation. It establishes a foundation for the project ahead.
Step 2 — Fee Proposal
Clarity Before We Begin
Once we understand your project scope, we prepare a detailed fee proposal outlining our services and timeline. We prioritize transparency, so you will know exactly what to expect before we proceed. Once the fee proposal is approved, we will prepare a formal agreement to sign.
Step 3 — Pre-Design & Existing Conditions
Understanding What We Are Working With
Before design begins, we thoroughly assess your property. We review zoning, shoreland requirements, setbacks, flood zones, and site conditions to inform the design. For renovations or additions, we measure and document existing spaces, producing accurate as-built drawings as the basis for the next steps.
This phase helps us anticipate challenges, minimize revisions, and begin design with clarity and confidence.
Step 4 — Schematic Design
Where Your Vision Takes Shape
This is the creative core of the process. With a clear understanding of your property and goals, we develop initial design concepts, exploring form, layout, proportion, materials, and the real-life experience of each space.
In this collaborative phase, your vision meets our expertise. We present concepts, listen to your feedback, and refine the design until the direction is right. Every element is intentional.
Step 5 — Design Development
Refining Every Detail
With the schematic direction approved, we advance the design by resolving technical details, specifying materials and systems, and coordinating with consultants as needed. By the end of this phase, every room, material, and spatial relationship is confirmed.
This is where good design becomes exceptional.
Step 6 — Permit Documents
Preparing for Approval
Precision is essential at this stage. We prepare comprehensive documentation for permitting and construction, including floor plans, elevations, wall sections, ceiling layouts, and finish schedules. Every detail is intentional, ensuring materials, systems, and aesthetics align to realize your vision as designed.
These documents are submitted for local permitting approval and become the definitive guide for your contractor.
Every project is unique. A simple addition may take several months, while a complex custom home on a challenging site may require more time. We will provide an honest timeline estimate during our initial consultation and keep you informed throughout the process.
Step 7 — Bidding & Permitting
Finding the Right Builder
With construction documents complete, we help you identify the right builders to realize your vision. We guide you through obtaining competitive bids from reputable, qualified contractors and assist in evaluating proposals so you can make an informed decision.
We always consider your budget, but construction costs may vary due to market conditions and material availability. If adjustments are needed, we will work with you to refine the design while preserving your priorities.
Step 8 — Construction Administration
Guiding the Build to Completion
With permits secured, construction begins. Our ongoing involvement ensures every detail is executed as intended. We visit the site at key stages, review contractor submittals, address questions, and provide expert guidance throughout the process.
Architect involvement during construction is essential. It is the difference between a home that is simply built and one that is fully realized.
