Phase 1: Programming & Investigation

This phase can be introspective and illuminating for our clients as they examine their lifestyle and values. The process begins with a client interview in which we start to establish the scope of the project by discussing lifestyle, personal taste, location and community, room necessities and sizes, specific furniture requirements as well as the aesthetics of the home.

During this investigative process, we ask that our clients to compile an “idea file” which usually consists of clippings and photographs of homes, rooms, landscapes, and any other elements which inspire and appeal to them. This file may also include community covenants, design guidelines, site, tree and tope surveys and any other information which will need to be incorporated into the design of the home.

From here we will contact any other individuals or organizations who will be involved in the design and/or construction of the home. This may include a pre-selected builder, decorator or landscape architect, the local government building department, the Developer and/or the Architectural Design Review Board. We will establish the extent of work required or requested by each of these entities to satisfy their requirements. All parties involved must be satisfied with our work in order to accomplish a successful project. When designing in a new area, a code search will be performed to ensure all requirements are met.

The final piece of this investigation is a site visit. This is an invaluable step in the investigation process and commonly required by developments prior to design. Meeting the homeowners and pre-selected builders and/or landscape architects can be very helpful during this visit.