Learn About Our Process

Feasibility

Every project starts with research: a zoning study and site evaluation to understand all constraints on the project. This may require site studies by consultants and coaching with the building department. For more information about some of the issues that come up during feasibility, read our guide to developing property.

the Program

At the outset of the project, we learn as much as we can about your goals for the project - the space needs, interior features, outdoor spaces, and green building goals for the project. We encourage our clients to make image boards that convey a look and feel attractive to them.

the Vignette

An idea will most clearly succeed or fail when viewed from a distance. This is why the vignette sketch is so important to our design process. If the idea is compelling and works, the purpose of the rest of the process it to make it real, keeping it as fresh and compelling as the moment it was conceived. Often, these sketches might be 2 minute drawings.

The Plan

The plan is developed with dozens - sometimes hundreds - of iterations on flat sheets of trace paper bound in pads. This sketch development will result in a design proposal to discuss as a team. Typically, each project will pass through 3-4 design iterations, at 1-2 week intervals, before congealing into something that we are all extremely happy with.

Some of the themes that guide our design work is to create movement and rotation in the plan, rotating your body to align with vistas to the surrounding landscape.

Perspective Sketches

As we get deeper into design, additional sketches will convey the look and feel of indoor and outdoor spaces from eye-level. These are often traced over perspectives captured from rough 3D models of the project.

The Model

When the plan, and “look and feel” of the house is compelling, we develop hard-lined plans, sections, and elevations, as well as a highly developed 3D walkthrough model of the project. This “design development” phase takes the project from a sketch to a walk-through model in which everything is figured out down to light fixtures and outlets.

the Finish Package

In a parallel process as we refine the design of the building, you will begin working toward a selection of fixtures and finishes on the interior and exterior. You will tell us your goals with the finishes, and we will provide images and samples with options from our library. We will also spend one or two afternoons with you, walking through showrooms to explore additional options.

Engineering & Permitting

When the design is essentially complete, we will proceed with structural and civil engineering and work toward a set of permit and construction documentation. Often, clients continue to finalize the interior finish package through this phase.

When the permit materials are submitted, this is when the project is bid, or a final estimate is drafted by the collaborating contractor. We believe in working closely with builders throughout the process to ensure the estimate is on target, and that we have collaboratively resolved construction details and specifications.

the Build

Throughout the build, we will visit the project, stay in communication with the builder and respond to requests for information.