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Process:

Every project is different but generally the design process will include the following elements:

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Connect | Initial consultation and contract:

I welcome email or phone calls to connect initially. Most projects begin with an in-person consultation where I will come to your home or property in order to achieve the following:

  • Listen and understand your goals, vision, and budget

  • Meet you and convey who I am and what I have to offer

  • Understand the project scope

  • Learn about your property and home or business

  • Assess initial opportunities, constraints, and determine if I can help with your project.

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If the project seems like a good fit for both of us, I will prepare a proposal and contract for design services and offer a timeline for beginning the design process.  

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Discover | Programming:

I will gather information and define parameters that will inform the design process including:

  • Overall project goals and investment

  • Documentation of the existing built conditions for remodels and additions.

  • For new construction, we will explore the site together and create any necessary documentation.

  • Depending on the complexity of the project (and especially for new construction) we will work together to create a program, which is a narrative description of the elements to be included in the project (such as "2-bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a cook's kitchen"... etc).

  • Discover and interpret relevant zoning, zoning overlays, and any other jurisdictional requirements for the project site. 

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Visualize | Schematic design:

We work to define and visualize design solutions that take into account real-world constraint while retaining enough flexibility to efficiently evolve to meet your feedback and expectations. You can expect the following over two or more iterations:

  • Basic site plans and diagrams  

  • Floor plans and diagrams

  • Basic sections 

  • Basic 3D imagery of interior and exteriors depending on the project scope

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Refine | Design Development:

We will refine the design through the following:

  • Detailed plans and sections showing specific construction of exterior envelopes, structural systems, stairs, and other complex building elements.

  • Elevations showing specific window locations, sizes, and configuration

  • Interior elevations of kitchens, bathrooms, and other complex areas

  • Added detail and refinement of the 3d model and updated renderings with initial material and finish ideas shown.

  • Clearly define the project scope.

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Document | Construction Documents:

We will thoroughly document the design solution.

  • The construction documents will be updated and expanded to include specific materials, technical information, code language, construction details, and complete dimensioning.

  • Structural engineering (or other consultant) work will be coordinated with the drawings.

  • At or near completion, these drawings can be shared with one or more contractors, and will have sufficient detail to begin the contract bidding process.

  • At the conclusion of this phase you will have a complete set of construction documents necessary for permitting and construction of your project.

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Interior Design:

Offered as an additional, optional, service, we can work with you to choose the many different finish materials (tile, flooring, countertops, etc), plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, paint colors, and other interior details. We can taylor these services to your needs. Typically this includes:

  • Create and manage a comprehensive  finish schedule documenting finish choices which can be shared with your contractor 

  • Meet with you at select showrooms to facilitate selection of finish materials and fixtures

    • Alternatively, we can provide you with samples and options for your direct approval.

  • Guide the overall selection process with an understanding of the project schedule, relative costs, and overall design vision

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Permitting and Jurisdictional Reviews:

In Portland there are two common permitting pathways:

  • Field Issuance Remodel (FIR): most contractors we work with are a part of Portland's FIR program which streamlines the permitting process for most residential projects. The program applies to remodels, additions, garages, studios, and other residential projects. This is a great program that makes permitting simple, efficient, and fast. The permitting timeline for FIR projects is usually under 2 weeks. FIR permitting is handled by the contractor with my support. 

  • Standard Permitting: Necessary for ADU's, New dwelling units, certain other projects, and any project where the contractor is not part of the FIR program, the standard permitting pathway is significantly more cumbersome than the FIR Program, but I have ample experience with permitting and can reliably move through the process. The timeline varies, but most recent projects have taken 2-3 months to permit. I usually submit drawings and other required documentation on your behalf and manage the permitting process. 

  • Most other jurisdictions have similar permitting processes and timelines as the Standard Permitting above. 

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Construction Services:

While required for commercial projects, this an optional service for residential project where these services can include:

  • Help with contractor selection

  • Review bids and contracts to help determine if the full scope is included and the contract is within industry standards

  • Work with you and your contractor to modify the project scope or design to manage costs.

  • Visit the site at critical points during construction to help ensure the project is progressing in accordance with the design documents and observe overall project quality.

  • Help with any design changes that may come up due to unknown conditions or new information

  • Review, interpret, and help coordinate shop drawings, especially cabinets. 

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