Why should I hire an Architect?

An architect is a licensed professional trained in design, construction, and managing the complex process from concept to completion. Architects provide a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and are an advocate for your best interests. We explore innovative solutions, help you set a realistic budget, navigate planning and building codes, and oversee the project to ensure the design integrity is maintained during construction. Architects don't just draw plans; we design a home tailored to your lifestyle.

As your Architect, I strive to always be your advocate through the design, permitting and construction of your home.

What type and scale of projects do you work on?

While I specialize in custom new homes and major whole-house renovations, I welcome a variety of residential challenges and beyond. My experience spans a wide range of scales and typologies, from small 300 sq. ft. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and garage conversions to expansive 40,000 sq. ft. family estates, from cozy modern ranch houses to luxury hospitality penthouses. For every inquiry, I always assess the project's scope and budget to ensure it's a good fit and that my expertise can deliver exceptional value.

What do architects mean by “sustainable” and “resilient” home design?

A sustainable home minimizes its negative impact on the environment. This includes optimizing energy efficiency, using responsibly sourced materials, managing water usage, and maximizing natural light and ventilation.

Resilience is the ability of a home to withstand, adapt to, and recover from extreme weather events, natural disasters, or utility disruptions. This means designing for the specific risks in our region, such as fire, high winds, or extended power outages.

California, the state that I am licensed in, requires many of these design qualifications at a baseline through compliance with California Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards. As an architect I always inform my clients of items beyond the minimums that provide benefits whether they create a home that costs less to operate over its life-cycle, is healthier to live in, or provides more safety and protections in extreme weather events.

What are the typical design phases of a residential project?

My process generally follows the typical four main architectural project phases that are outlined on my process page but summarized briefly below:

Pre-Design/Programming: We define the project goals, budget, schedule, and site requirements together during an initial meeting.

1. Schematic Design (SD): As your architect I develop initial concept sketches, floor plans, and massing studies to establish the overall design.

2. Design Development (DD): Together we refine the design, select major materials/systems, and as your architect I will help coordinate with the necessary consultants (e.g., structural engineer).

3. Construction Documents (CD): I create the detailed drawings and specifications necessary for permitting and construction bidding.

4. Construction Administration (CA): During construction, as your architect I remain with the team to answer any questions that may come up and ensure the design integrity is upheld during construction.

How involved will I be in the design process as the client?

You are essential! The design process is a collaborative dialogue. Every project starts by asking many questions about your lifestyle and preferences. You will be actively involved during the Schematic Design and Design Development phases, providing feedback on sketches, drawings, and material selections to ensure the final design perfectly reflects your vision.

How long does the design process take?

While this is completely dependent on the complexity of a project, The design phases for a custom home or major renovation typically takes between 4 to 8 months. This can be impacted by the project's complexity, the speed of client feedback, and the time required for any required council, agency or regulatory approvals. As your architect I will always work with you to establish a detailed timeline at the start of the project that is best informed by your project scope and the location of the project.

How do you charge for your services?

A fee structure is based on your project's scope and complexity. We use a combination of methods to ensure a fair and transparent approach:

Percentage Fee: Ideal for full-service custom projects where the design or quality may evolve, ensuring our fee adjusts appropriately to the work required.

Fixed Fee: Used for projects with a clearly defined scope, providing you with a predictable lump sum cost for our services.

Hourly Rate: Used for preliminary work or projects where the scope is not yet clear.

We will provide a detailed, customized fee proposal after our first consultation.

Do your fees include the cost of engineers or other consultants?

Typically architectural fees cover only architectural design and drawing services. Fees for outside consultants, such as structural engineers, surveyors, or specialized lighting designers, are separate. However the time to manage the coordination of all consultants are typically considered part of your included architectural budget.

Do you work with a specific builder, or can I choose my own?

I am happy to work with a builder of your choice, or I can recommend trusted, qualified contractors with whom I have successful working relationships. I also assist with the bidding and negotiation process to ensure you get a fair and accurate price for the completed design.

How often will you visit the site during construction?

During Construction Administration, I typically try to arrange visit to the site at regular intervals (usually weekly or bi-weekly for complex phases) and for key milestones. Our role as an architect during this phase is to observe the progress, answer the contractor's questions, and verify that construction aligns with the design documents.

Can I make changes to the design once construction has started?

Absolutely! While I strive to work with you to finalize the design before construction begins, changes are sometimes necessary, whether they are from changing conditions brought on by the you, the client, the contractor, consultants or other agencies. Certain small changes are built into the process are are typical, however be aware that larger changes made during construction, known as Change Orders, can significantly increase the project cost and timeline. All architects typically recommend that all major design decisions be finalized prior to finalizing the Construction Documents to help prevent costly Change Orders.