Turn Your Vision into Reality with H2D: A Guide to Our Design Process
The journey to creating a beautifully designed + functional space starts with a well-structured design process. Our comprehensive approach ensures every detail of your unique project is thoughtfully considered – from initial design consultation through final execution of the construction phase – we are here to support you along the way.
Below is a step-by-step overview of what to expect when you partner with us:
1. Potential Project Initiation: Setting the Foundation
Our architecture + design journey is built upon a thorough understanding of the vision and goals you have for your space – we consider your priorities; how you want to live in the space and how to make it suited for your (and family) needs? This starts with a discussion with one of our architects to gather essential information – this meeting can be conducted via phone, video, office, or on-site (for on-site visits, additional charges apply) -- where we define scope, budget, and timeline of your project to prepare a detailed cost proposal.
We also perform a preliminary site review using a geographic information system (GIS) to map and pinpoint any potential site constraints, such as setback issues or environmental critical areas (ECA), which help identify possible additional consultant involvement in the project. If your project involves a homeowner’s association (HOA) or requires additional consultants, those needs will need to be communicated upfront.
2. Pre-Design, Feasibility, Programming, and Site Analysis
As we move forward, we begin to conduct thorough code research within your specific jurisdiction to better understand your site’s potential and constraints. This includes, but is not limited to, zoning codes, height limits, lot coverage, impervious surface, floor area ratio (FAR), environmental considerations, and other regulations/potential setbacks. For many projects, a Boundary and Topographic Survey will be required to be performed by a Licensed Survey consultant prior to the start of the design process to further inform possible site constraints, environmentally critical areas, and help inform design considerations. We review additional documents, such as surveys, environmental reports, or geotechnical reports, and create a detailed pre-design questionnaire to ensure we are aligned with your vision.
For Remodels
o H2D will visit the site location to take accurate as-built measurements and then proceed to build the as-built drawings in our 2D/3D architectural software (ArchiCAD).
For New Construction
o H2D will meet with you on-site to walk the property, take any necessary on-site measurements and photos to be used in conjunction with the Boundary and Topographic Survey to draft the initial site plan.
3. Schematic Design: Bringing Ideas to Life
The schematic design phase is where your ideas start to take shape! The schematic design phase begins with a pre-design meeting where we discuss your project in detail, room by room, review all findings, potential design challenges, while also referencing your pre-design questionnaire and any inspiration images you have shared with us. H2D will then develop 1-3 design schematic designs, including 2D floor plans, 3D renderings, and site plans (when applicable), ensuring each option aligns with your pre-design notes and site restrictions. A schematic design meeting is held with the design team to present our concepts, discuss the various schemes, and gather your feedback.
4. Design Development: Refining the Vision
Once schematic design has been reviewed and your feedback has been provided, the design team will then move on to design development, where the design is further refined. Your feedback is crucial during this phase as we make revisions and adjustments to the plans. Once the design layout has been approved, our design team will develop more detailed drawings, such as floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plan. Typically, this design phase also involves engaging a builder for initial pricing to help inform the budget prior to moving into the permit plans.
5. Permit Documents: Technical Drawings and Details
In this phase, we finalize the design documents and begin developing the technical drawings for the project (i.e. plans, elevations, sections, details, etc.) necessary for permit requirements. Additionally, the necessary consultants (i.e. civil engineers, structural engineers, arborists, environmental consultants, etc.) would be developing additional documents and technical drawings. Once the permit plans are ready by our design team and the consultants, we will review them with you before submitting them to the relevant jurisdiction for approval..
6. Interior Design, Finishes, and Details: Curating Your Space
Interior designs begin with a kickoff meeting once the design plans have been approved. Our interior designer will work closely with you to define aesthetic direction, sourcing fixtures and finishes that bring your vision to life. We will create color boards and 3D renderings to help you visualize the finishes and fixtures for the interior spaces, ensuring every detail, from electrical plans to material selections, is meticulously documented and aligned with your preferences. Throughout this phase, we maintain open communication, exploring every detail, from tile selections to electrical plans, to align with your vision. Our interior design services also includes a furnishings and décor package, click here to learn more about our furniture and decor service offering!
7. Construction Documents: Preparing for the Build
As we await permit approval, we continue to refine the construction plans, adding any additional details, drawings, and/or consultant documents. Once the permit is approved, finalized construction plans are reviewed with you and your builder for approval. Once approved, the construction documents will be passed onto the builder to start construction.
8. Construction Observation: Managing the Build
During construction, we offer services for our design team to remain actively involved, answering builder questions, documenting changes to the plans, coordinating with consultants, and/or visiting the site as needed. We address builder questions and issue revisions promptly to make sure the builder and client (you) have the most up-to-date information, maintaining the integrity of your design throughout the construction process.
Conclusion: Your Dream, Our Expertise
We are committed to making your dream renovation a reality through a collaborative and transparent process. From the initial consultation to the final build, our team is committed to delivering a space that reflects your style and meets your needs. We are here to guide you through every step of the journey, ensuring a seamless and successful project from start to finish – contact us today to start your project with us!
Definitions:
1. as built: Plan drawing(s) representing the as built or existing conditions of an existing building, space or area.
2. schematic design: phase in the architectural design process where architects and designers develop initial concepts and layouts for a project. This stage involves creating conceptual sketches and drawings to explore and illustrate basic size, layout, and relationships between spaces.