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STEP 1: CONTACT US
We promise to be nice. |
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STEP 2: RESEARCH
We like to think of design as a game and before you play any game you have to know the rules. So before we design, we gather as much information as we can. We absorb all the thoughts and ideas you have and ask you a bunch of questions. We help you establish criteria for success for your project along with a realistic budget and timeline. We research local codes, ordinances and zoning information. We visit your site, take photographs, measure stuff, and sometimes even facilitate a site survey. Then we put it all together into a document called a Project Brief. |
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STEP 3: DESIGN
Now, we play. During the design phase, each project undergoes a series of brainstorms. Everyone in the office participates and brings their own area of expertise to the table. Based on the project brief, any and all ideas are explored. The imagination is stretched to its limit and, out the other end comes a pile of scribbles, models, computer images, and words. After each Brainstorm, we pin everything up, analyze it, and translate it all into 2-3 great ideas for you to see. |
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STEP 4: REFINE + RESOLVE
Once you've had a chance to see our thoughts and we know which parts resonate with you the most, we begin creating one cohesive design. Usually the end result is a series of hard-lined, scalable plans and elevations, some key details, an outline of potential phases, and sometimes even a ballpark construction cost estimate. Whatever the case, we always make sure we end up with all the information you'll need to fall in love with the design and proceed to the next step with confidence. |
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STEP 5: ENGINEER + SPECIFY
After we have a design, the first thing we do is make it stand up. And while we're plugging away on structural engineering, we begin working with you to select interior and exterior materials, colors, wood species, furniture, appliances, plumbing fixtures, and light fixtures. We also help you specify energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems and water efficient plumbing systems. |
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STEP 6: COORDINATE + PUBLISH
Once the decisions have been made and engineering is complete, we assemble all the drawings and specifications together into one big pile of paper called Construction Documents. We then outline instructions for bidding and print out enough sets for you to begin the process of interviewing contractors and obtaining a final bid. |
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STEP 7: BID + SIGN
Once a bid is obtained and a builder is selected, we sit down with you and your builder and go over the contract. Together, we'll establish a construction schedule including periodic meetings with all of us on site. After the contract is agreed upon, we make any tweaks to the construction documents as needed and print out enough sets for your builder to obtain a building permit. |
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STEP 8: BUILD
During construction, we meet with you and your builder at key checkpoints. Before excavation, we help stake the structure on the site. Before exterior finishes are installed, we review details. Before sheetrock is installed, we verfiy plumbing, mechanical, and electrical locations. Before cabinetry and millwork is fabricated or installed, we review drawings and details. And before the end of construction, we do a final walkthrough and generate a punchlist. In between these meetings, we meet often to review and approve purchase orders and any necessary design changes that may arise during construction. |
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STEP 9: DELIVER + STAGE
When the paint is dry and the dust has settled, we begin coordinating the delivery and installation of window treatments, furniture, special light fixtures, artwork, and any other finishing touches included in our purchase orders. |
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STEP 10: MOVE IN
With the builder, us, and you present, we present the keys and an Owner's Manual. Together we walk through the whole manual to let you know how to operate and maintain your home. Then, at long last, we get out and the place is all yours. |
