Why should I consider custom design?

If you have been looking at plans and ideas for a while but have been struggling to find a design to you really like you might want to consider a custom design.  Ready-made plans often suit some of your needs but not all of them.  Most of our clients fall into this category.  They look at plans and see bits and pieces that they like but can’t find a design that incorporates all the various pieces.  Custom design can solve this problem.​​

What is the first step to a custom design?

To get started, we will schedule an initial consultation to go over your thoughts and ideas.  We can do this in person or by phone.  The meeting can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and is free of charge.  This meeting is essential for us to understand your goals, your projected schedule, the design elements you are looking for in a home, and the structure of the home.  The initial consultation will tell us how complex your design might be and how detailed the drawings will need to be.

What do I need to bring to my consultation?

The more information the better!  There is no such thing as too much information.  Sketches, sample pictures, sample floor plans, your wish list and even the things you absolutely don’t want to see in your design.  All of this is helpful to define who you are, what you like and what your expectations are for your home.  Also, check your records.  You need to have a recent survey of the property which shows the property lines, setbacks and all existing buildings.  It is also helpful if it shows utilities and contours.  If you recently purchased the property you will most likely already have a plot plan, but older properties may need to be updated.  The physical address of the project property will also be needed.​​

Where will the initial consultation be held?

Typically, new home consultations take place in our office so you might find it helpful to compile your information in a folder/binder or email the information to us prior to the meeting.  However, we can also conduct the meeting by phone if you have a distance to travel or are concerned about face-to-face meetings.  We can also hold the initial meeting by video conference using a variety of platforms such as Teams or Zoom.  Consultations for additions, remodels and renovations need to be done at the project property so that we can see the project and discuss options more accurately.​

​How long will the initial consultation take?

​We need to cover a lot of information during the initial consultation so you should plan for at least two hours, possibly three.

When should I begin the design process?

Most clients want to break ground in the spring.  If this is your plan you need to plan ahead and get started on your drawings early.  A design can take as little as 2 months to complete or it can take a year.  This depends a lot on you.  If you know exactly what you want and you provide feedback quickly, your design will take less time.  But if you find it hard to make decisions or are in a situation where it takes you a while to receive or reply to emails then you need to plan for a longer period of time.  In addition to this, the season you choose to begin will affect your design schedule.  We are busiest in the spring and summer.  Opting to begin in the fall or winter can decrease the time to complete your drawings.  We recommend that you consider beginning a full year in advance of your build so that you have ample time for the design.