frequently asked questions

If your project requires permitting, you’ll almost certainly need a licensed architect to prepare the drawings—though requirements can vary by jurisdiction. But beyond just providing an architectural stamp, our team brings years of experience in residential and commercial design to help bring your vision to life. We prioritize clear communication, functional solutions, efficient processes, and thoughtful design in every project we take on.

No two projects are the same, especially when it comes to residential design. The Comprehensive option for the Planning & Pathways Review is a necessary step for us to determine the architectural fees associated with your specific project, as we take time to review existing conditions, desired scope, consultant coordination required (if any), and other important factors in the design of your space.

Once we have established the scope of services and associated estimated fee for your project, we offer various packages that allow you to approach our services step-by-step, if desired. Some clients prefer a full-service approach—from Pre-Design through Construction Administration—while others handle permitting and contractor coordination themselves. We offer flexibility within some package options that can help customize our deliverables and fee to better fit your budget needs.

For a general range of architectural fees, see the Architectural Fees page or check out our blog article!

Absolutely! You can book a complimentary, 30-minute Discovery Call with us to receive personalized, expert guidance on your project. You can book your call here. We also encourage you to download our free Project Planning Pack before you begin your project.

Following this conversation, if you like the idea of working with us and we feel we'd be a good fit for your project, we will provide you with a Planning & Pathways Review proposal for review and signature prior to providing an on-site consultation.

Our Planning and Pathways Review is an essential first step for any new project. It includes an on-site consultation and tailored planning services (based on your selected package) to get your project moving in the right direction. This critical phase helps identify key goals, clarify requirements and constraints, uncover potential roadblocks, and provide detailed research. We also recommend the most suitable team of engineers and designers to provide a clear path forward for your project.

Our Comprehensive option for the Planning & Pathways Review includes a Cost Planner to provide general guidance to help estimate on estimating construction costs. This is a critical step in the beginning stages of a project; it helps ground the project in reality and help owners make informed decisions. We always encourage reaching out to a qualified general contractor early and throughout the project to get the most accurate estimate.

We ensure your budget is maintained by discussing costs early and openly, flagging choices that may increase expenses, and offering cost-effective alternatives. A General Contractor is involved early to provide accurate cost forecasts and identify savings opportunities. Finally, we rigorously vet contractors to guarantee quality, reliability, and value for money.

Most projects do require permits, but it depends on your jurisdiction and the scope of work. We’ll evaluate your specific case during the Planning & Pathways Review and provide you with an outline of the next steps for what parts of your project may or may not require a permit.

The size of your addition depends on local zoning ordinances. During our Planning & Pathways Review, we’ll assess your project goals and determine what’s feasible based on factors like lot coverage, setbacks, usage type, and other zoning criteria. Every jurisdiction is different, so this step ensures your project aligns with local regulations.

While we don't formally "recommend" contractors, we can provide a list of qualified general contractors who we have worked with in the past. We have a directory of potential contractors (new build to renovation) who might be a good fit for your project. The final decision is up to you! You can request a copy of your personalized local expert directory here.

Yes! At minimum, we conduct one site visit during construction. However, we find we can provide the most value to the project when we can review the construction process at intervals appropriate to the progress of construction. Some general milestones we typically schedule to observe construction include:
1. during/after initial framing has been completed
2. after plumbing, electrical, and mechanical rough-ins have been completed
3. After insulation has been installed
4. After drywall has been installed and prior to final finishes and fixtures being installed
5. Upon final completion of construction

During construction, our duties can include performing site visits, responding to questions from the contractor, reviewing product submittals for compliance with the drawings, and conducting punch list walkthroughs.