What is your design philosophy?
We are a full service contemporary custom residential design firm. Our focus is committed to creating works of architecture that express the highest aesthetics with a strong response to program, context, and environment. We pay particular attention to the quality of materials and detailing. Through careful manipulation of space and light, we strive to design spaces and experiences that are individual yet responsible, visionary yet practical.
Do you have experience with renovations? What type and size of project do you normally produce?
Although we specialize in custom residences, we also have been involved in numerous renovations. Our projects typically range from 2,000 to 10,000 square feet. Renovations usually scale on the smaller end while custom residences are on the higher end.
What kinds of services do you offer?
We offer full architectural services for custom residences from schematic design all the way to construction administration, planning, feasibility studies, and custom furniture design.
Who will be the project leader if we retain your firm for services?
Our office currently has two designers – the principal architect and a junior designer. The principal architect leads all projects and the junior designer is on hand for any code research, drafting, and construction documents organization.
May we have a list of past clients that we can contact, who have worked with the person who will be in charge of our project If we decide to proceed?
In order to respect past clients’ privacy, and depending on the type of project, this list may vary from project to project. However, we will do our best to accommodate this request.
How busy is your firm? Will you be able to make our project a priority?
Our firm gets quite busy due to its small size and limited number of employees that personally see to every project. That being said, every project that comes to our desks is a top priority.
What means will you use to collect information about my needs, goals, etc.?
An in person preliminary meeting with the client is essential to really get a grasp of your needs. If an in person meeting is not possible, we are more than happy to do a phone conference call as well. Verbal communication is more effective than emails at this stage. Once a contract is signed and work begins, our office is always accessible by email, and phone. Clients can also set up times to meet us personally in our office as often as necessary.
How will you help me to fully understand the scope and sequence of the project? Will you utilize models, drawings, and/or computer animation?
Our office works mainly on a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software called ArchiCAD. It has both 2D and 3D capabilities which allow us to explain the project both functionally on paper as well as spatially on the computer. With materials, textures, landscaping and more, the client will be able to easily understand the design.
What are the steps in the design process, and how are they organized?
Schematic Design: The scope of work is defined, codes are researched, and an initial spatial analysis is conducted.
Design Development: Once the client approves the schematic design, the project’s design is then refined and finalized in order to prepare the documents needed for permitting.
Construction Documents: Drawings are prepared to submit for permitting, with the amount of drawings and hours to produce them varying from project to project. Any comments received from specific authorities get addressed in revisions.
Do you help us select a builder?
We are more than happy to recommend a number of builders for your consideration and can even set up meetings with you and each builder. Ultimately, the client makes the final choice.
What role do you have during construction? Am I expected to work directly with the contractor?
Our office offers construction administration services and we work closely with the builder to make sure the construction process goes as smoothly as possible. If there are any discrepancies or issues, we are always available to clarify or help solve through email, phone, or site visits.