Design
The first part in designing a home is coming up with a concept. The more the client can provide the designer in the beginning the faster this process can go. Such things as pictures, sketches, and photographs are always a good start. However it is not unusual to start with as little as the amount of square footage required, the budget for the overall project, and or number and types of rooms required. There is no need to feel embarrassed if you find yourself in this category. It’s for this reason you have chosen to come to a designer.

After a preliminary interview with the client, a floor plan will be created which we feel best defines the information that has been provided. After presenting this plan to the client, we will then start a redefining process with the client’s help until the client agrees we have achieved a floor plan that best fits there lifestyle.

Once the floor plans have been completed we will start the design of the elevations,exterior views of the house. This process will follow the same format as the floor plans to ensure the client’s satisfaction is guaranteed.

Interior Decorating
After completion of the preliminary drawings you may start the process of selecting the interior finishes. This would consist of selecting flooring materials, wall finishes, and countertop selections. Since these products are such an expensive part of the overall project we recommend a great deal of time go into the selection so they may be added to our documents for bid purposes. With help from our in house interior decorator you may use as much or as little of our services you desire.

Renderings
While some clients may be able to look at a two dimensional drawing and visualize a three dimensional house, we realize this is easier said than done. This is why, at the owners request, we will produce colored renderings for those who would prefer to see a similar replica to the finished product.

Working Drawings
The working drawings will begin once approval of the preliminary drawings has been given. The working drawings are basically those drawings that a builder will need to complete the construction of the house. The following is a list of the drawings provided in a complete set. Please take a moment to review.

Plot Plan
The plot plan shows the location of the house on the site. It usually also shows utilities, topographical features, site dimensions, and other buildings on the property.

Foundation Plan
The foundation plan illustrates the foundation size and material. The foundation plan gives information pertaining to excavation, waterproofing, and supporting structures such as underreams.

Floor Plan
The floor plan shows all exterior and interior walls, doors, windows, patios, walks, decks, fireplaces, mechanical equipment, built-in cabinets, and appliances. A separate plan view is drawn for each floor of the house.

Elevations
Elevations are drawn for each side of the structure. These drawings are typical orthographical projections showing the exterior features of the building. They show placement of windows and doors, type of exterior materials used, steps, chimney, rooflines, and other exterior details.

Framing & H.V.A.C.
A roof framing plan should be included in a set of residential plans when the roof is complex and requires unique construction. A roof framing plan may be drawn to clarify construction aspects associated with the roof. The roof framing plan normally shows the rafters, ceiling joists, and supporting members. A floor framing plan shows direction of joists and supporting members.

The heating, venting, and air-conditioning plan illustrates components such as the furnace, air-conditioner, and heating and cooling ducts for the climate control system of the house. The design of this system is usually performed by the contractor who installs the system.

Construction Details
Construction details are usually drawn where more information is needed to help describe how the construction is to be done. Typical drawings include details of kitchens, stairs, chimneys, fireplaces, windows and doors, foundation walls and items of special construction.

Schedules
The door and window schedule are tabulated lists of information pertaining to the doors and windows. It includes such information as size, type, material, and manufacturer.

The schedule of finishes is a tabulated list of each room in the house. It includes such information as finishes for floors, walls, and ceilings. It also gives a detailed description of the types of mouldings to be used in each room.

Interior Elevations
Interior elevations are vertical drawings of interior cabinets and walls. These drawings help the client visualize where different components of the cabinetry will be such as drawers, doors, and appliances. Elevations will also be drawn of walls that are unique in nature.

Electrical Plan
The electrical plan is drawn from the floor plan. It locates switches, convenience outlets, ceiling outlet fixtures, television jacks, service entrance location, panel box, and general information concerning circuits and special installation.

Specifications
The specifications provide written information on details and products which supplement the drawings and become part of the complete set of building plans.