Conceptual Development | Schematic Design | Construction Documents | Project Management

Conceptual Development back to top

We begin with a free-of-charge get-to-know-each-other meeting at your home where I will listen to your desires. You can prepare a "wish list," cut out photos, show me the house down the street you like, or just describe your vision.

Tell me what you want and we'll talk about how to make it happen. I will evaluate your existing home and/or site with an eye toward structure, function and aesthetics - the house has to stand up, work, and I won't let you build anything ugly (without warning you beforehand).

At the end of this meeting, depending on your certainty about what you want, I can give an estimate of my fee and the cost to build your project.

Schematic Design back to top

If you decide to let me participate in your design process, I will measure your existing home and determine all relevant zoning restrictions. I will draw one or two options which are as close as possible to your ideas from the first meeting, and a few variations which I would consider improvements. But, Schematic Design is the fun, artsy part, where we consider all the possibilities.

In that spirit, I may also present a drawing or two which are totally different from anything you've described - informed by your desires and my experience and creativity. We'll move entire rooms and spaces around, try different orientations and different roof designs.

My job is first to respond to your specific requests, and second, to expose you to ideas you may not have considered. We will discuss all these options and begin honing them, discarding some ideas and combining the best aspects of all.

Construction Documents back to top

Once we have a design you like, I will begin the Construction Documents. These are the detailed technical drawings we will submit for the building permit. They show the location/size/installation of every foundation, wall, floor joist, rafter, truss, beam, header, door, window and skylight. The Construction Documents are where I build your project on paper.

I have submitted (and had approved!) plans in Fairfax Co., Falls Church, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William Co., Fauquier Co., Anne Arundel Co. and Queen Anne Co., so I know the regulations.

I guarantee you will get a permit. The contractor will use these drawings for the actual construction of your project.

Project Management back to top

If you already have a contractor in mind, I'm happy to work with him (or her). I will meet with the contractor before, during and after the design process to ensure your and his needs are met.

If you don't have a contractor, I will provide a list of ones I've worked with and trust. I will be available to answer any questions.

During construction I can visit the site periodically to ensure our drawings are being followed, and coordinate any changes with the rest of the project.