Beginning a project can be overwhelming, and one often does not know where to begin. Here is a brief outline of the first few steps to take, and what to expect in getting started.
Arrange a time to meet with us. This initial meeting can occur in our office or at your property. Since a good (comfortable) working relationship is critical to collaborative design, it is important to choose an Architect who listens and understands your needs. Therefore, we would like to meet and get to know you, and invite you to learn about us. Feel free to ask us as many questions as you like!
During this initial interview we will also discuss and get an idea of your goals, your site, your schedule, your budget. We would do some initial Zoning checks to determine what can be achieved within your site’s specific restraints. With this information, we can prepare a fee estimate for your consideration. This can be presented as a percentage of construction cost, an hourly rate, fixed fee or combination thereof, depending on your preference.
Please visit: see Fees/ How do Architects charge?
Once you have decided to proceed, a design meeting will help define the objectives of the project, including the desired program and future flexibility. There are some simple exercises you can do in advance to participate fully at this stage.
See: Your Creative Role
You will need a topographic survey of your property at this time. We can recommend a number of professional Surveyors, or work with someone you select. Armed with that information we will then clarify the requirements and potential of the Zoning Bylaw and record on a Site Plan.
This begins the Schematic Design Phase, and the number of schematic design meetings to follow can vary, depending on your involvement, clarity of objectives, etc. During this phase, we will provide initial sketch plan options for your review; we will continue to refine these until you are happy with a schematic design concept that you would like to see further developed into a detailed Permit and/or Construction set.
Designing and constructing a home or building is creative and thoughtful work. No one solution fits all. We view design as a collaboration between Client and Architect, resulting in an exciting and enjoyable process and a truly unique architectural product to perfectly suit YOU.
Be prepared to be a vital member of our design team.