I have a project in mind, but where do I start?

I have a project in mind, but where do I start?

This is one of the questions we get asked most frequently, and the short answer is - start with us!  We know it can be confusing for homeowners to understand the zoning codes and which projects are even allowed.  Or maybe you’re wrestling with what is the best way to alleviate the issues you’re experiencing with your home.  It can be overwhelming to decide if you start with a contractor or an architect or who?!  A full-service architect like Cult Creative will help you navigate the zoning and building codes, assess the best way forward and guide you through each step of the process to help you determine which partners are needed and at which phase of the project.  Cult Creative has a thorough Predesign and Programming phase, and we start by talking about the general scope and size of your project, along with the project budget. Using a general cost per square foot calculation, we can assess if the project budget and scope are in alignment, or if something needs to be adjusted before design begins.

For additions and new construction, before any design happens, you need to obtain a survey of your property indicating the property lines, any existing buildings or improvements, and topography or spot elevations to understand how your site is graded and draining. Architects do not provide surveys, however we can provide contacts for professional surveyors, help review fee proposals, and make sure the surveyor has everything included in their scope that you’ll need for design and permitting.

Once we have the survey to use as a base and the information gathered in Predesign and Programming, then design can begin, using the parameters of the existing site overlaid with the zoning and building code restrictions. For us, the initial phase of design is the Concept Design where we create options, review those with homeowners, and together create a plan for the overall project.  Reviewing alternatives and hearing feedback from our clients is how we zero in on the best solution to develop, and it helps clients who may have different priorities reassess and come into alignment with one another.

A developed Concept Design is the necessary tool to bring on all other partners.  It’s hard to talk about a project if you don’t have a truly defined scope, so creating a Concept Design package, enables our clients to engage with Contractors for pricing, Structural and Mechanical engineers for further design development, a Geotechnical engineer for soils reports, and anyone else who may be critical to the development of the project.  Knowing we all have the same scope and scale of project in mind is critical for creating a path to completion, ensuring the project comes in on time and on budget.

Have more questions? You can get in touch with us here.