On this page you can learn about our unique 3-step process designed to set the right expectations at the beginning of any building project and minimize surprises when it’s too late to make a change. As Abraham Lincoln once said: “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.”

OUR PROCESS

In a nutshell, our process entails a mandatory upfront exercise called the Needs and Options Review that is essential in setting expectations at the very beginning of a project so that cost and schedule overruns are practically eliminated.

Needs and Options Review
Architectural Design
Construction

1. NEEDS & OPTIONS REVIEW

$500 - $1500 depending on complexity of project. We provide an initial consultation followed by a write-up of priorities and general scope

Regulatory - Initial analysis of building code, zoning, conservation, historical or other restrictions
Scope of Work - Initial analysis of potential size, type, and complexity of project
Budget & Schedule - Establish construction budget, architectural and engineering design fees, and schedule for approvals, permitting and construction

This critical first step helps our clients avoid many of the pitfalls common to design and construction projects going bad due to unrealistic expectations of how the process works – the cost, the time, the approvals process, the selections process, etc.

Use this link for a 7-minute video with a more detailed explanation. For unique

projects that are not a match for this process we provide hourly consulting services.

2. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

8%-12% of construction budget from Needs and Options Review depending on overall size and complexity

Conceptual Design - Sketches of various options based on Needs and Options Review; Potential costs for each option; detailed regulatory analysis
Schematic Design - more detailed design of selected option from Conceptual Design
Design Development - final floor plans, elevations, sections and 3D renderings of proposed project
Construction Documents - detailed structural and architectural drawings, electrical layout, etc. for permit and construction
Fixed Price Proposal - prepare Construction Contract for review and execution.

3. CONSTRUCTION

Using our online project management portal.

Obtain permits
Coordinate all trades for construction
Arrange building inspections
Collaborate with owner(s) on all Fixtures and Finish Selections
Obtain final Occupancy Permit

ENJOY YOUR NEW HOME AS MANY OF OUR CLIENTS ARE NOW DOING

"We will be forever grateful for the beautiful design and remodel of our home. It will improve the quality of our lives for many years to come!"

Steve and Diane - Brookline, MA