Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started with my project?
The first step is to find a piece of land to build on or an existing building to renovate. Write down you goals for the project including the spaces you’ll need, what styles you prefer, what characteristics or “feeling” would you like the project to have. Establish a timeline and budget for your project and try to be flexible on both to allow yourself the ability to adjust these as you get into the project.
Do you have a specific design philosophy or signature style?
We don’t have a signature style, we believe that each client and project is unique. We approach the design of a building similar to that of painting a portrait of our clients. While the style is important, we believe the personality of our clients should be the driving influence on the final design.
What is your design process?
Every project begins with a site visit to see the characteristics that will influence the design of the building.
A meeting to discuss client needs, goals, timelines, budgets and style preferences is next.
The design phase begins with a presentation of designs that allow our clients to explore options and decide what ideas work best for them. This is typically done via hand sketches which enables us to quickly explore ideas and keeps the process flexible.
Once the concept is in place, we move to the computer which enables us to fine tune the design and see the building in 3D, which allows our clients to better visualize how their project will look and perform.
How involved will you be in my project?
Since we are a small firm, Scott Wilson will be working with you throughout your entire project. We will also assign a project Manager to your project to handle the behind the scenes drafting, shop drawing reviews and contractor communication as well as assist with the design process and participate in meetings along the way to make sure more than one person knows the details of your project.
How long will the design process take?
Our typical projects take between 4 to 7 months form beginning to completion of construction drawings. That process can speed up or slow down depending on your comfort level. We try not to hold you up, but don’t want to push you to make decisions that will impact your life for years to come.
How are your fees determined?
We tailor our fees to best suit your project. Some fees are based on the building square footage, others are done on a percentage of construction cost, and some on an hourly basis. This gives us the flexibility to give our clients the best value for their investment in our services.
Who else do I need to hire for my project and how do I find the right people?
That will vary with every project, but some of the more typical team members include the General Contractor, Landscape Architect and Interior Designer. You may also need the help of Soils Engineers to design septic systems, Surveyors, Audio Visual designers and other specialty craftspeople for any unique design features. We advise you along the way if any additional team members would be helpful. If needed, we can work with people you already know, get recommendations from other team members and of course use people we know.
What should I bring to my first meeting?
Anything and everything you have assembled, collected or aquired about your project. Typical items that help would be a survey or plat of the property, existing drawings if the project involves remodeling or adding onto an existing building, notes you have about rooms/ spaces/ lifestyle preferences, photos of homes and spaces you like and your goals for schedule and budget are important to discuss early on.
Our experience has been that it is best not to focus on trying to produce a floor plan but rather focus on ideas that you like, materials, quality of life (sunlight, privacy, how the building flows, etc.)
What other questions should I ask at the meeting?
- Do you have an interest in, or feel like my project is a good fit for you?
- What challenges do you see for my project?
- How long do you think my project will take from design through construction?
- What do you think my project will cost to build?
- How will the budget be monitored during design to stay on track?
- How will you present my project to me in the various phases of your service?
- How involved will I be in the design process?
- Do you have experience with this type of project?
- Who will I be working with in your firm?
- How would you establish fees for our project?
- If we use any consultants (engineers, Interior designers, etc.) will their fee be included?