0.    Pre-project Consultation et Concept – Understanding  

Before we get started, we meet to get to know each other and discuss what the project might be. I will then prepare an offer of service so that we can formally get started.  Steps in this pre-project phase include : 

• During introductory meeting, get to know each other, understand the professional needs of the client and what skills and services I can offer

• Gain an understanding of the vision and requirements for the project, as well as the client’s design tastes and preferences

• Analyze the project’s physical restraints and considerations

• Brainstorm possible solutions and ideas with the client, to be tested later in the design studio

• Evaluate existing storage capacity and future needs

• Prepare an offer of service that outlines the proposed scope, services and fees for the project

1.    Architectural Planning – Testing and Defining 

Now the project has formally begun. This is when we try different options and work out what form the project will take. Steps for Phase 1 include :

• Take a more detailed survey and measurements of the space

• Produce computer drafted base drawings of the existing space 

• If pertinent, research and prepare a preliminary summary of the local regulations and sections of the construction code relevant to the project 

• Prepare various planning options / room layouts, to aid the client in choosing their best solution

• Through a series of meetings, assist the client in choosing the option that will move forward and be developed in the next stage of the project

• Prepare a preliminary summary of the scope of work for the proposed project, to understand what work will be required

2.    Design Development – Designing and Refining

Now the design really takes shape and the details are worked out.  Steps for this phase may include :

• Explore and finalize the design through the production of more detailed architectural drawings  

• Develop the design of cabinetry and other custom and semi-custom elements 

• Provide guidance for the selection of the multitude of specific materials, finishes, fixtures, lighting, accessories, furnishings, etc. that must be specified for the project  

• Finalize a shopping list for the elements the homeowner will purchase and provide to the contractor for installation.  Provide guidance in shopping for materials and products, accompanying you if so desired 

• Provide guidance in the formulation of the general design vision and establish the look for the project - the colours, textures, and ambiance   

• Work out the details of how the selected materials, products, and finishes will be integrated into the existing construction, to ensure that all the pieces will work together  

• Produce a set of design plans that contain the information necessary for contractors to be able to submit a preliminary bid, or for suppliers and installers to use for their installation.  An even more technically detailed and extensive version of the plans (construction drawings) will be required to apply for building permits and for the contractor to use to construct the project.  The construction drawings will be part of the next phase

3.   Technical Drawings and Specifications – Documenting  

All projects require some level of construction drawings - a more detailed version of the design drawings already created.  This is how technical information is clearly communicated to the people who will be constructing the project and ordering the furnishings and finishes.  The amount of documentation required varies greatly with the complexity of the project and the needs of the person doing the building. Steps may include :

• Convert the drawings into a set of detailed technical drawings and plans to be used by building professionals for construction and/or for obtaining a construction permit.  Types of drawings may include : demolition, construction and ceiling plans, elevations, sections, details, finish, flooring and furniture plans.  The complexity and quantity of the documents required will depend on the size of the project and the needs of the contractor and/or the requirements of the municipality. 

• Finalize the itemized specifications of all materials, finishes and fixtures to be purchased by the contractor

• Remain engaged in the process until the permit is received, to manage any requests for information and/or modifications to the drawings, that may be requested by the permit office  

4.   Construction Administration and Supervision – Building  

Regular visits to the site during construction to answer questions and work with the contractor to solve any arising problems, makes the project run more smoothly, resulting in less stress and distress for the client.  Steps during construction phase include : 

• If requested, aid the client with comparing offers of service and selecting a contractor  

• Survey the project on behalf of the client during the construction process, to keep track of the progress of the work and facilitate communications between the contractor and the client 

• Make regular visits to the site to observe the work throughout construction.  Be on hand with the contractor to answer questions, collaborate on solutions  and verify the intent of the drawings is being executed 

• Verify the materials and products to be purchased for installation by the contractor, to ensure that they correspond with those selected by the client and indicated in the drawings

• Verify the design drawings produced for fabrication (by cabinetmakers or other providers) to ensure that they correspond with the design indicated in the drawings

• Assist in the selection and purchasing of finishes, furnishings etc. that are to be supplied by the client. Guide the client through the procurement of the final touches

• If required on a small project having no general contractor, manage, coordinate and supervise the work of the various vendors, installers and professionals, as well as the ordering of materials and the scheduling of deliveries and installations 

• At the end of project, evaluate the work to determine any deficiencies to be corrected or work remaining to be completed