Our Design Process

The process will be similar to the following:

Retaining our services and getting on our work schedule requires a signed contract, outlining the scope and cost of the project, and a 25% (non-refundable) retainer.  Our contract encompasses a four – tiered process and payment plan.  Allowing clients to sign-off, as we progress through the different phases of development.

Initial Consultation: Getting the Process Started

This is a brief 15-20 minute consultation to discuss the basic scope and budget for your project.  Once the general question’s are answered (square footage, style of home/level of finishes, numbers of bedrooms/bathrooms and types of living spaces needed) we will generate a proposal based on your wants and needs for you to review.

Once a proposal/contract is signed and the non-refundable retainer is received, we will schedule you for an expanded consultation (to clarify direction and start talking specifics).

 

Phase I: Expanded Consultation / Clarification

 

This is where we expand upon the basic questions and get into the specifics. This phase begins with an in-office or teleconference consultation that typically lasts from 1-2 hours. Client inventories are collected and reviewed.  Specific wants and needs are identified and ideas are exchanged, to formulate a design concept that is complementary to your lifestyle.  

Phase II: Conceptual Designs   

A conceptual floor plan is created and reviewed with the client.  We prefer to meet, face to face in our Brevard office whenever possible.  However, we often collaborate using pdf’s via email and video conferencing to discuss client’s thoughts about the designs.  Especially for those clients that live out of state.  Plans are reviewed, changes are made, and the process repeats until everyone is pleased with the design.

Phase III: Design Development                                              

Once the floor plans have been approved, we will begin creating the exterior elevations. This phase is also a collaborative effort with some back and forth.  As the design expands to include the exterior elevations and electrical consideration, we are moving away from the conceptual into the solidification of the final design.  Once the floor plans and elevations for the final design are agreed upon, we move onto completing the construction documents (the final phase).  

Phase IV: Construction Documents                                      

This is the phase in which all of your designs are transformed into a working set of construction drawings. This will include all necessary information for bids, permits, ordering and construction. All interior details and specifications will be added and the plans will be reviewed for accuracy. This is the final phase.

After Plans are Completed: 

• We will present you with 2 full size sets of plans for your builder.

• If our Material Selection Service is requested, we will begin the process of putting together various options for your home and schedule times and dates to visit local showrooms and interior designers that we have developed relationships with over the years.  

  • Finalized selections will be presented to you, in both a pdf online format and a bound, color booklet for you to share with your builder and show friends.

• Your builder and local permit office may not require a stamped set of engineered plans.  However, we highly recommend that your plans be sent to an Engineer prior to construction.  The typical cost is nominal and is well worth the added piece of mind.

• We are available for continued consultation as needed, to help guide you through the building process and coordinate with your builder/contractor should a question arise.