FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing varies depending on project type, size, scope, terrain, and municipality. For example, a 500 square foot addition to an existing home may cost $50,000 to build and my fees would be about $5,000. This would typically include structural engineering and Title 24 energy calculations. However certain variables may make the cost rise, such as if the addition requires extensive remodeling the existing home, if the work includes kitchen design, if the addition is on the 2nd floor of the residence, if the home is on a hillside, etc. One critical item as well is that if the client has a difficult time making decisions, every iteration of the design takes time, and time is money. This is why for most of our projects we do a 3d model of the house as part of our basic fee so that it's easier for the client to visualize the completed project get a feel of the inside and outside.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After an initial interview, we typically assess whether the project is feasible by doing initial research with the building and/or building department, either on-line or in person. Next we gather as much information from the client to assess the client's needs and wants, this is essential to generate the initial design. Depending on the client and the project we then refine the design and after approval from the client we move on to the Working Drawing phase. These are the nuts and bolts of the project, what many clients and contractors call "blueprints". These plans get submitted to the building department for review and eventually a permit. During construction of the project we are available by email or phone to provide clarifications to the general contractor, and if necessary, as an additional service, to meet on-site with the client and the contractor. There may be more or less phases depending on the size and complexity of the project.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a 5 year Bachelor of Architecture degree, a certificate in Construction Contracts Administration from CSI, and I am a LEED Acredited Professional.