Residential Architecture services
site planning
Residential site planning is the process of optimizing the location of your home within your land. For larger lots this includes evaluating solar exposure and shade. For smaller lots this entails complying with lot setbacks and easements. Most jurisdictions require a drainage plan and grading plan along with a site plan in order to apply for building permits. In most cases, an architect can provide the site, grading, and drainage plans to obtain building permits. In some cases steep grades may require a civil engineer to develop the grading and drainage plans. Proper site planning should be done early on in the design phase because it can sometimes guide the layout of the home
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
The construction documents are the set of drawings and details that are used to build your home. Designing a home for a client is a serious process, one that we never take lightly. Often a home is called a dream home and bringing that dream to reality is important to us. Design is a collaborative process and we encourage owner input and participation. This is your home, and the design should represent you. Through a series of face-to-face meetings, we get your wishes onto paper and develop your dream into a build-able reality. We recommend involving your general contractor early in the process along with an interior designer if you choose. Throughout the design process we offer multiple options to provide the desired outcome within the site-specific design. Bringing multiple minds to the table provides thoughtful design with successful, cost-effective results.
LEED / Sustainable Design
Whether you want to incorporate a handful of thoughtful environmental ideas or get your project certified as a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) project, we have the expertise to help.
Permit Acquisition
Many jurisdictions allow an architect to submit the construction plans to the building department for review and approval. Once approved, the general contractor or homeowner may pick up the permit and pay the permit fees. Historically, the general contractor or homeowner submits the plans for review and end up relaying information back to the architect and engineers when the building department requests additional information. We have experience working with many of the Northern Colorado building departments and are happy to assist with the permit process.
Construction Administration
Regular observations of the construction process is the final step in bringing your dream home to reality. Having an architect and a contractor working together to accurately bring the design to life provides reassurance that you will receive the home you anticipated. We prefer a contractor-architect relationship and request to work with your contractor during the design stage to get their input on construction methods and materials. This will assist in the accurate design your home within your budget. Having the architect and contractor working as a team and not against each other relieves stress during the construction process.