The Easthope Design Process – Turning Your Vision into Reality
The relationship you have with an architect is unlike any other. We help you dream—while keeping you grounded in the realities of today’s compliance and regulation burden.
If this is your first experience working with an architect, review our time-tested process below. We use this 4-step process to consistently meet and exceed the expectations of our homeowner clients.
Step 1 – Existing Conditions
To seamlessly integrate your new project, we capture an accurate drawing of the existing conditions.
- Detailed photography and precise measurements of rooms, ceiling, windows and doors.
- We supply scale drawings with a bird’s eye view of the current floor layout, showing walls and their thickness, doors and windows, cabinets, appliances, stairs and closets.
- Our exterior elevations show outside views of your home. These are flattened views that reflect exact measurements that will be needed for construction drawings.
- Appropriate sectional views. Like an MRI, slicing through the house vertically reveals roof pitch, attic and crawl space, stair runs and other vital pre-existing details.
Step 2 – Legal Compliance
Every jurisdiction has specific zoning laws and compliance parameters. We integrate these regulations to speed design approvals and later for obtaining a building permit.
- Many zoning regulations are based on the square footage, lot coverage ratios, property line setbacks and exterior building heights.
- Will your project comply with the ratio of living space to lot size? We perform all the necessary calculations.
- If local regulations prevent adding more living area square footage, a redesign better using the space you have may be the best option. We’ll explore the pros and cons with you.
- Does your home already use the maximum footprint for your lot size? What about its height? Going up may be the only option if you can’t go out. Again, we’ll do all the work and explain the trade-offs.
Step 3 – The Design Phase
After accurately capturing the current structure and researching any applicable zoning restrictions, the design process begins.
- This is where we provide several solutions that best capture your wish list. Depending on the scope of your project, these may be general sketches, floor plans or renderings.
- Together, we’ll walk through each solution, identifying the pros and cons of each, based on your budget, space management, traffic flow and other considerations.
- We help you visualize each proposal and how it will feel to live or work in your new space.
- We meticulously record your feedback and make revisions as needed.
- After your approval, the necessary technical drawings are created for submission to the planning department and any other relevant regulatory agency for their approval.
- Naturally, we’ll be there, every step of the way, whether it involves design revisions, public hearings or even a complete rethink of your project.
I have had the great pleasure of working with Richard Esteb on several large projects.
Not only does he have great design and architectural skills, he brings to the job a truly extensive knowledge and understanding of cabinetwork , how things go together and the design possibilities inherent in different products. His ability to solve problems (how do you fit in both this and that and what way looks best) is fantastic.
And working with him is a dream. He listens to what you say – he wants to know what you want, what you like, what you need. The projects are collaborative projects in the best sense of the word. He’s calm and steady while I thrash around. He is just the best.
Step 4 – Construction Phase
The next stage is to turn your vision into reality. This final architectural stage goes with fewer unknowns, because of all the upfront planning we’ve already done. This assures a successful construction outcome.
- After design approval, construction drawings are created for your building permit.
- The site plan will show your home and its location on the property and the details necessary to comply with relevant state and local regulations.
- Your site plan will show any proposed structures, such as an ADU, or other additions.
- The electrical plan will identify new fixtures, upgrades and other specifics.
- If window replacement or exterior wall modifications are involved, any required energy reports will be secured.
- If work to loadbearing walls, foundation or seismic upgrades are involved, a structural engineer will supply supporting documentation.
- There may be additional drawings needed such as interior elevations, cabinet details or other specifics to guide subcontractors.
- Your project will comply with all fire regulations, seismic fortification, energy consumption and related codes.
- The package of drawings will be submitted for a building permit and will be approved.
- The process of dreaming and planning is now ready for the construction to take shape before your eyes.
Would a partnership with Easthope Design make your dreams come true?
Find Out. Arrange a no-obligation consultation and let’s turn your vision into reality.