We start with a free phone or video call to see if we are a good fit. If you would like to set up a call, please contact us.

The next step is an Initial Consultation, offered for a modest flat fee. This includes a walk-through of your site or building, a discussion of the project scope, and a preliminary review of regulations that may impact the project.

Larger or more complex projects may benefit from additional research before moving on to the design phase.

Lastly, the existing building or site is measured.

Once the goals are clear, we guide the project through the phases of design:

Schematic Design: We establish the layout of the new or renovated spaces and their external appearance.

Design Development: We bring in consultants as needed and start to get more specific, looking more at the arrangement of individual spaces and the elements that go into them.

Construction Documents: The design team makes many small decisions and draws many details, so the project can be permitted and built.

For smaller remodels, the last two phases are often combined.

Planning: Most projects require some review by the Planning Department. The main exception is renovations that do not change the use of the spaces or the building’s outside appearance.

Building: We submit for a building permit once the drawings are complete, or at least include everything that relates to the building codes.

Funding: If your project is using (or aims to use) funds from public or foundation sources, we incorporate any special requirements, and organize the workflow to meet the relevant deadlines. We can also support the grant writing process.

Bidding: We can assist with this process by meeting with potential builders to review the design with them, and by reviewing their bids to see if they appear complete and appropriate. We also highly recommend obtaining estimates earlier in the process.

Construction: We are both a resource for the builder and an advocate for your design goals, answering questions as needed and observing the ongoing construction work.

The success of your project is important to us, and we believe in ongoing learning and improvement. After the project is complete, and you have had a chance to settle into it, we offer a free follow-up visit to evaluate whether everything is working properly, and whether your new spaces meet your goals. We recommend scheduling this for 6-11 months after construction is completed.

More extensive post-occupancy evaluations are also available.

When you are considering whether a site will meet your needs, we can investigate what is possible: What is allowed by zoning regulations; what challenges you may encounter with such things as utilities, easements and natural features; and what can fit on the site.

Whether you are building on a new site or undertaking extensive renovations, your project may benefit from more in-depth study before architectural design begins. We can investigate approaches to site layout, relations to the surrounding neighborhood, and any phasing needed. We will consider many variables, including sustainability goals, building forms, private and social spaces, and circulation.

Site or Existing Facilities Evaluation

Submission for Green Certifications

Grantwriting Support

Design Guidelines

Post-Occupancy Evaluations