Our comprehensive process commences with a thorough on-site meeting where we delve into your project objectives and briefly address crucial design considerations, encompassing local code requirements and site conditions. Subsequent to our consultation, a proposal will be presented, delineating a detailed fee schedule and offering a comprehensive project overview.
After the proposal’s approval, I begin my thorough assessment of the site's existing conditions. This includes precise measurements of the lot size, buildings, and other pertinent site details. This crucial phase allows us to identify constraints and explore solutions to navigate them.
As we transition into the design phase, my focus is on tailoring our creations to seamlessly align with our clients’ vision. This involves a series of floor plan study iterations, each uniquely shaped by the intricacies of existing site conditions. These conditions encompass factors like the sun path relative to site orientation, existing structures, vegetation, elevation changes, time considerations, and compliance with codes and economic constraints, among others.Simultaneously, I engage in collaborative consultations with engineers and, whenever possible, contractors. This dual approach ensures that our designs not only align with the client's vision but also work harmoniously within the estimated budget. The meticulous consideration of these conditions is paramount, as it lays the groundwork for a smooth construction phase. By adhering to local codes and regulations, we aim to minimize setbacks and ensure a streamlined path when the construction phase commences.
After finalizing the design, our focus shifts to the creation of comprehensive construction documents. These documents encompass a range of plans, including site plans, floor plans, demolition plans, Title 24, as well as electrical and plumbing plans. The specific requirements for these plans may vary based on the scope of the project. This phase constitutes a significant portion of my work, where meticulous attention is given to compiling technical details and information essential for plan checks and contractor bidding.My commitment extends to ensuring that all pertinent technical notes are documented and readily available. Once the construction plans, along with other requisite forms and information, are meticulously completed, we proceed to submit them to the relevant city for review and approval.
Once the construction documentation is completed, we would then submit it to the city or county. This is so they can review the plans to ensure they abide by the local code. The duration for cities or counties to review submitted plans varies significantly, influenced by the size of the jurisdiction. On average, this review process typically spans 4 to 6 months.
After the city has approved the plans and provides permits, we would review the plans with the contractor to reduce the likelihood of mistakes or unforeseen issues. During construction I will make frequent site visits to review the work of the contractors and to answer any questions the contractors may have regarding details of the project. Once construction is completed, we will walk to the property a final time checking for imperfections or other missing items.
