Program Definition: We will meet with you to review the scope and goals of your project, as well as your budget. A survey of existing site and/or existing building conditions is completed. Zoning and building code requirements are reviewed for their impact on the project.

Schematic Design: A set of initial concept drawings which include floor plans, exterior elevations and building sections, will be prepared and reviewed for your comment and approval. Concept drawings are revised according to your comments to reach an approved schematic design.

Design Development: Once approval of the schematic design is received, a more detailed and refined set of drawings are created which describe the size and proportion of spaces. Outline specifications are generated indicating major materials and finishes for the project.

Preparation of Construction Documents: Once the design documents are approved, the drawings and specifications are further detailed so they may be used by a contractor to estimate construction costs and obtain permits for construction. These drawings will also be used extensively by the contractor throughout construction.

Hiring the Contractor: As the homeowner, you will select and hire the contractor. We generally recommend bids be solicited from 3-4 different contractors. If desired, we can provide services to support creation of bidding documents for review by the contractor, such as invitations to bid and instructions to bidders. Review of contractor bid proposals is also an available service.

Construction Services: During this phase we visit your project periodically to observe progress. We look to see that the project is being built according to its planned design. We also review that the project’s progress is consistent with the contractor’s request for payment. During this phase the contractor is solely responsible for all aspects of constructing the project, including the techniques, methods, schedules and building processes used.