What to Expect
Think of a design consultation as a house call: we visit your home, discuss and
sketch possibilities, and answer basic questions about costs and construction
alternatives for various home improvements. Together we can explore placement of
a needed expansion, re-sculpt awkward facades, correct balance, composition, and
add visual interest. We can even recommend how to avoid common mistakes made
with additions and renovations.
Most conceptual possibilities are explored during the design consultation.
Depending on the project’s complexity and the available documentation, some
consultations may take longer.
After the consultation, a letter may document the results and conclusions of
the design consultation. The design consultation is a “stand alone” service. You
are not required to retain us for the duration of your particular project. In
some cases, the consultation will be all the architectural services required.
Subsequent architectural services, if needed, can be discussed and reviewed
during the design consultation.
Getting The Most From Your Design
Consultation
The following items will help us give you the most useful recommendations in the
least amount of time. Have copies ready before the consultation begins.
- Site Plan or Survey. This document, prepared by a
Surveyor, locates your house relative to property lines, driveway, and
servitudes. It is often included with your closing documents.
- Photographs of the Exterior. We frequently
approximate what your additions may look like by drawing directly over a good
snapshot. Take photos of the front, sides and rear of your home. Don’t tilt
the camera up or down, as this distorts the image. Enlarge several copies to
either 8-1/2” x 11” or to 11” x 17” on a regular copy machine.
- Subdivision restrictions (if applicable). Many
subdivisions exceed the city or county's building requirements with
restrictive covenants. These covenants can limit the materials, establish
mandatory building setbacks and require approval of any plans. Look in your
closing documents for these. If you aren’t sure if your subdivision has such
restrictions, check with your real estate agent, closing attorney, or
neighborhood association.
- Floor Plans. A copy of your home’s plans is the
best record, though many older homes don’t have these. If the original plans
are unavailable, check your closing documents for a plan that may have been
included in the appraisal or in the description of the property.
- Your Photo Clippings, Design Files, Sketches or Wish
List. No two homeowners prefer the same materials, colors, fixtures or
appliances. To help us learn your preferences, tear out pages from favorite
home improvement magazines illustrating the “feel” you want. Place a note on
each, noting the items that caught your eye.
What Does It Cost?
A typical design consultation takes two to three hours and costs $500
including the session’s conclusions. Additional consulting time is offered at
our normal hourly rates.
Travel time within one hour drive are free. For locations outside this time
frame, travel charges can be negotiated in advance. With appropriate photographs
and documentation, the consultation may be conducted at our office. Many
out-of-town clients have taken advantage of this option. Call for further
details.
Satisfaction Assured
If you aren’t completely satisfied with the design consultation during the first
hour, you may stop the consultation at that time without charge.
Scheduling the Consultation
When you’re ready to schedule your design consultation, just contact our office
at (770) 806-8866. Design consultations are typically scheduled in the late
morning.
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