Creative design is a collaborative process; you will be working closely with your Architect to give form to your vision and needs. Once you’ve selected your Architect, a few simple things to help prepare for your initial design meetings:

Collect an Idea Portfolio Go through magazines, either pulling out or marking images that appeal to you. Take photos or doodle sketches of places or things you like. These can be of anything that catches your eye: exteriors, interiors, furniture, finishes, landscapes, etc. Don’t be concerned if these images are conflicting or disconnected; these are a jumping off point to get a conversation started about your likes and dislikes.

Form a List Create a list of the uses that you want your house or building to fulfill. A room list is a good place to start. Your list could also include things like number of family or guests using it; requirements you have for dining, working, entertaining, recreation, solitary activities, etc.

Another method is to set out a list of critical items vs. wish list items; for example,
Critical items: 3 bedrooms, open kitchen/dining area, double car garage, deck near dining area
Wish list: courtyard or roof garden, soaker tub in master suite, painting studio, huge mud room

List(s) often change dramatically through the design process as ideas are tested, however, an initial list opens topics for discussion.

Create a Story Imagine yourself on vacation 5 years from now, meeting an old friend. Describe to your friend what you LOVE about your home. What experiences continue to thrill you? Do you love the openness of the plan which allows you to see your children play while you work? Do you love its connectedness from every room to the special places on your property? Is it light and airy or a cozy haven? Do you love how it feels when you walk in bare feet? Can you play a trumpet without disturbing your spouse? Imagine away.

Set a Realistic Budget Along with your needs, site, zoning and Code restraints, your building budget is a major constraint in the design process. It is important to know in advance what your budget will be, and it pays to be honest and realistic about that budget with your Architect. Be clear about how much you can afford and whether professional and/or permit costs are included. An Architect can design for any budget, but it may be important to be flexible with your scope, schedule, materials or quality. Your Architect can advise you, all the way through the design process, the relative cost of your plans.