Design Process

Portland, Oregon / 503-768-4573

~ Designing a Custom Home ~

Whether you are an individual homeowner or a builder, our goal is not only to design for you an exceptional home but also make the process of creating that new home an exciting, easy and informative one. How do we achieve that goal? We do so by taking you through a time tested, straight forward process.

Step 1:

We start by asking these five questions:

1) Have you selected and secured a building site?

2) Have you selected a general contractor to build your home?

3) Have you determined approximately how large of a home you want?

4) Have you determined what your budget is?

5) Have you created a list of needs and wants for your new home?

In our first meeting, we will discuss these five areas. From these, we will then discuss in greater detail some of the specifics of what you are looking for in your home.

Step 2:

After our first information gathering meeting, we will then make arrangements to visit and walk the site with you. This provides an opportunity to see first hand exactly what we are working with and discuss with you in greater detail some of your objectives you want to achieve in the design. By doing so, we make sure all aspects are taken into consideration.

Step 3:

We will contact the local jurisdiction to determine what the specific land use and zoning requirements and/or any other specific requirements are for your site. At this time, we will also be working with you to coordinate and obtain a site survey, geo-technical report or other information as required.

Step 4:

With all of the above information in hand, we will then begin the process of creating a preliminary design. Our preliminary plans generally consist of a floor plan(s), site plan, a minimum of a front elevation and a basic roof layout.

Step 5:

We will be meeting again to present to you the preliminary design. We will review the plans, discuss any possible changes or other ideas and answer any questions you may have. This phase may require a few meetings, electronic exchanges or other to complete and get the design to meet your exact specifications.

Step 6:

Once the preliminary drawings are approved and you give us the okay to move forward, we will then begin to prepare the final set of construction drawings. These will be the drawings (plans) used to obtain your cost estimates (bids), building permits and construct your new home.

Timing:

One of the questions always asked at this point is: “How long will this process take?” Each project is unique, therefore there are a number of variables which can affect the timing. Once we have had a chance to meet with you and understand your specific project we can then give you a better estimate on timing.

Two key elements which will help your project move along quickly and efficiently are; good, clear communication and timely and accurate decisions. Our promise to you is that we will do all that we can to provide you with the information you need to make those timely and accurate decisions and this will be done through clear communication. Should you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.