Design Approach
Our primary design focus is on home, office, and aging-in-place design. We aim to design spaces that are not only functional, but are in some way exemplary- that lift us out of the everyday mundane experience of domestic life. This often requires thinking about spaces in ‘unconventional’ ways. Ultimately, our goal is to design and build structures and spaces that are sustainable, and inspire awe in the inhabitants and public at large.
Our Process
Initial Meeting
During the initial design process we work closely with the client to develop an understanding of their needs and desires. This is done through a combination of short questionnaires, informal discussions and preliminary site visits. We then compile all this information, along with the clients budget, and develop a program that meets the personal goals and budgetary constraints. If you don’t have a budget outlined, that is ok- we have the expertise to help with that. The resulting program then serves as the basis for the design moving forward.
Conceptual Design
The next step is the creation of one or several conceptual designs. Conceptual designs are more devoted to conveying the overall design intent and less the details which come later. We meet and discuss the relative merits of each concept with the client.
Design Development Refinement
The next stage is the details stage. During design refinement, hand sketches, color and 3D renderings, photos of previous projects, and CAD drawings are used to refine the design intent and scope. Finish materials, color palette, hardware, lighting, cabinetry and storage, electrical and plumbing fixtures, , flooring and so on are discussed and entered into the project specifications. Manly projects include a landscape component as well. This may include but is not limited to specifying plant and tree varieties, detailing outdoor structures such as patios, pools, outdoor kitchens, and sports related areas such as tennis, and boche ball courts. Hardscape materials and designs are also refined during this stage. Once the details are worked out, the next and final step involves the production of construction documents ie., (plans) which serve several purposes.
Construction Documentation
Construction documents, commonly referred to as plans, are perhaps the most important component, less cleint satifaction, of the entire process. Here’s why. First off, plans contain all the information required by the building authorities to review and with confidence, approve the project. Secondly, plans because of their detailed nature, serve as part of the agreement between the design-build contractor and the client. Detailed plans reduce the potential for disagreement between contractor and client about the what, how, and where each aspect of the project is to be done. Finally, detailed plans allow the client to obtain multiple bids and be able to discern whether they comparing apples to apples or if perhaps there are some oranges thrown in and hence, the cheaper bid price.
These documents will serve as the guide, but will also be a part of the biding agreement between client and builder. do also work as a team with other builders and designers.
Services
Site Selection and Feasibility
Conceptual and Detailed Design
Material Selection and Research
Sustainability and Aging-in-Place Solutions
Budget Analysis
3D and Photo-realistic models
Construction Documentation
Permitting
Project Management, Consultation and Defect Mitigation
Landscape Design
Landscape design and landscape construction is a very underappreciated aspect of home and life. In the age of artificial intelligence and smart phones, many of us have become disconnected from nature and the outdoors. This is sad because in truth, nature can be our greatest ally in promoting better health and a greater sense of security and well being- it can rejuvenate our overworked, overfed minds. seeking to rejuvenate our overworked minds. No surprise that hospital design is now, at an unprecedented level, looking to nature nature in the form of healing gardens, open outdoor spaces, water features and other natural elements. Also, and not coincidentally, some of out most rewarding design-build experiences have been landscape redesigns and other outdoor related projects (i.e, outdoor kitchens, decks, pergolas etc.).
Landscape Services
Current Landscape Evaluation
New Design and Redesign Services
Water conservation (Xeriscape)
Landscape Structures (Pergolas, Trellises, Patios, Decks, Fireplaces, Eating Bars,
Outdoor Kitchens/dining and Entertainment Areas
Drainage and Irrigation
Retaining Walls and Water Features
Decorative Concrete