We believe that the role of the Architect extends well beyond simply providing design ideas. Each project presents its own unique complexities and challenges that require our thorough commitment from concept to come to fruition.
Introduction
We will help you in decision-making, educate you on the design process, explain how construction financing works, introduce you to builders and consultants to explain everything you need to know to enter the design/build process with confidence. Over the years we have established strong relationships with city officials, builders, engineers, surveyors and financial consultants, all of whom are essential components in delivering a truly successful project. These relationships and contacts are offered to clients as part of our service .
We tend to work with like minded, quality oriented consultants and builders and have found that this “team” approach is the most successful way to deliver a project. This approach surrounds the client with all experts in their respective fields and provides professional guidance throughout the entire project.
Feasibility
The first step is to sit down with the client to get an overview of what they are trying to achieve, their budget, schedule and any special conditions. This information is considered hand in hand with the property and existing zoning and building codes so that we can produce an educated response to the feasibility of the project and offer insight, opinions and options to the client.
Most clients are first time home builders, as such we strive to provide clarity on the process and educate the client on:
- Construction financing and how it works
- Design and construction schedules, how long it really takes
- Provide our insight on budget and construction costs
- Explain the need for other consultants (e.g. engineers)
- List out all the other soft costs normally associated with a typical project
We make sure our clients are well informed and comfortable with everything that is involved in the design/build process before they proceed with the project or engage our firm.
Preliminary Design
The initial meetings are where the clients can meet with Andrew and get a sense of his design philosophy. He feels that getting to know the client well is important to being able to translate their desires and needs into a place that they would call home. The client meetings are integral to the design process. Once the client and Andrew are satisfied that the desires are well understood, the preliminary design phase begins. Taking all of the input from the previous client meetings, the initial 3D sketches and plan options are created then presented to the client for review and comment.
Design Development
Once the review and comments are received from the client, a refined design is created. This step works toward developing a more complete design package.
Construction Drawings
Once the client has signed off on the design of their new home, the construction drawings are then created. This is where construction documents are created for the city and potential contractors are contacted for permits and pricing.
Site Administration
Once the construction begins, Andrew visits the construction site at its various phases to ensure that everything is progressing according to plan. Andrew is also available in the event that any information needs to be relayed to the contractor. LineBox knows that many of the clients are first time home builders so, helping them through the process is our priority.