FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DOES THE CUSTOM HOME DESIGN PROCESS WORK?

Typically, a project is first developed from a Design Program, which feeds into the Design Development of a preliminary Floor Plan, Elevations, and Site Plan to determine the scope, site, context, and architectural vernacular for your new home. From there, 3D virtual modeling can give you a true feel of the flow of the livable spaces and their relationship to the land. Finally, Construction Documentation completes the process by producing a detailed set of plans for bank appraisal, building permitting, and accurate construction bidding - leading to ultimate construction.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?

Although the needs of the client will determine the duration of the process, typically we will spend 3 - 6 weeks in Design Development, and 3 - 6 weeks in the Construction Documentation phase. Total time for a full custom home design is approximately 6 - 12 weeks to final documents ready for permit and contractor bidding.

I AM IN A HURRY TO GET THINGS STARTED. IS THERE A WAY TO FAST-TRACK THE PROCESS?

We have an extensive archive of prior projects that you can browse. If you find a home that meets many of the requirements of your design program, we can short-cut the process and save valuable time and expense in producing the final project. See our Plan Rack for additional inspirational home ideas. These plans are also available for purchase as-is, with the only required task being the Site Plan development for your particular parcel.

I BOUGHT A SET OF PLANS OFF THE INTERNET, BUT DEVELOPMENT SERVICES IS TELLING ME THEY ARE NOT COMPLETE. CAN YOU HELP ME?

We get this request often. Local Arizona jurisdictions have extensive requirements and standards for construction documents submitted for building permits that are not typically found in most online-purchase plans. We have also found that many of these plans are developed with sub-standard or over-designed structural systems. Please contact us to help you evaluate your project and we may be able to help you complete the plans to a standard that both you and the municipality are happy with.

I HAVE DESIGNED MY HOME USING MY OWN HOME PLANNING SOFTWARE. CAN YOU USE MY PLANS TO DEVELOP THE REST OF THE DRAWINGS I NEED FOR THE PERMIT?

Absolutely! We may have suggestions regarding the form and function, or to direct the design into a more cost-effective construction, but we can certainly start with your design and develop from there. Any rough hand-drawn sketches are also welcome, they will help us integrate your idea into a new and exciting design tailored toward your wishes.

DO YOU HELP ME WITH BUILDING PERMITS?

Our services include Arizona permit submittals to the appropriate municipality through final approvals and issue of building permit. You do not have to do any of the confusing and often frustrating coordination that is required to be ready to build.

I AM NOT BUILDING IN ARIZONA. WILL THESE PLANS WORK FOR OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY?

Please give me a call. Although our plans are developed in accordance with the International Residential Code, and are very complete with respect to the individual trades that will be building your new home, it is advised that you consult your local building department or such items as frost depth and foundation engineering requirements. We will be happy to work with you to modify the plans to suit your local building department’s standard construction practices.

DO YOU PROVIDE A BILL OF MATERIALS FOR THE PROJECT?

While we do not provide a specific Bill of Materials take-off for our homes, the plans are developed to a high level of detail that your contractor will be able to estimate construction costs accurately and efficiently.

I WOULD LIKE TO DO AN ADDITION OR REMODEL PROJECT FOR MY EXISTING HOME. CAN YOU HELP ME?

Of course! We love the challenges of additions and remodeling projects. Our primary goal is to modify the home in such a way that it creates of seamless, intentional addition that only you will know was not a part of the original design.

ALL RIGHT THEN, HOW DO I GET MY PROJECT STARTED?

Please fill out this form, and we will be contacting your shortly.

STILL HAVE SOME QUESTIONS BEFORE BEING SURE OF YOUR NEXT MOVE?

Drop us a note and we will get back to you in the next 2-3 business days.