FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
- I am very cost efficient and will provide a great value between cost and level of services. - I also have business relationships and discounts from many suppliers and will save some cost for the client, in procuring specific items for the project.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
- Initial consultation to determine scope of work, budget and time frame. - Fee proposal and initial contract. For the schematic design phase, charges will be based on hourly rate. Typically, a $1,000 retainer is required, but it could be less if job is small. - Measurements are taken if project involves a renovation or addition to an existing construction. - Existing plans are developed. If exterior is involved, elevations as well. - Client indicates ideas or preferences, if any are known - I do my own research to find images that will build a "mood board" for the client, in order to determine style and direction for the design - Initial design concept(s) are developed and presented to the client in a face-to-face meeting. - Based on feedback, the concept(s) presented are further refined and developed, or new directions are pursued. - Once a concept is approved by the client, design development phase follows. The drawings developed in this phase are also presented to the client and approval is required before proceeding further. - Construction documents are developed. Input from client is occasionally needed for various details and choices. - Coordination with structural, mep and any other consultants is conducted - Final set is submitted to client for approval and then submitted for permit - Any comments from the plan review are addressed, and any resubmissions if necessary - Construction administration is provided if established per contract. if it is to be included, site visits are conducted, responses to any RFI's the contractors may have, as well as scheduling inspections and meeting the inspectors on site. - Final occupancy permit is to be obtained.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
- I have a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Architecture. - Various training and continuous education credits - I have over 21 years of experience - I am a licensed architect - I am a LEED accredited professional - I am NCARB certified - I am also a professor of Interior Design at the Art Institute of Washington