Benefits of Bundling
Bundling is a great risk-free way to understand the scope of your project and be able to plan effectively. Find the bundle that works for your project. Bundles range in price from $250 to $750.
The $250 Remodeling Bundle
When well planned, a remodel can be the perfect option. Once you understand the process and cost you are able to decide whether or not to move forward. For $250 you receive:
- An on-site assessment of the space and structure
- A discussion of your needs, goals and budget for the project
- Materials and subcontractor recommendations
- Projected labor costs and timeline
- An understanding of the project’s challenges and viability
- Design sketches that are yours to keep.
The $750 New Construction Bundle
This includes everything that the remodeling bundle includes. This also involves an in-depth conversation about your vision, concerns and goals. For new construction several variables need to be addressed including:
- If there is a tear down of an existing structure
- The potential vistas of the site: valleys, lakes, rivers, fields, forest, etc.
- Trees that could be or should be saved
- Existing septic systems
- Location of neighboring structures
- Soil conditions and topography
- Sources of noise, natural and artificial light
- Other issues
I will photograph and assess the site. You will receive sketches of potential plans that are yours to keep.
The $750 ADU Bundle
A $750 ADU bundle is similar to both a $250 remodel bundle and a $750 new construction bundle. An ADU bundle is specifically designed to give you exactly what you need to build an ADU in the Twin Cities metro area.
Here is what you will get:
- An on-site meeting with me (1-3 hours)
- Sketches of the designs we discuss, so that you can show a contractor what you’re thinking about doing
- A discussion of the costs for your particular project
- A list of potential materials
- A discussion of what is allowed and not allowed given where you live, for example if you live in a heritage preservation district
- A list of the permits you will likely need and discussion of how to get them
- A tentative timeline for the project, so that you understand, generally speaking, how long it will take
- An in-depth understanding of your specific process, and answers to your questions
- Ideas for how best to use the space; where to put the windows for the best light and views, how to situate the building given existing structures, trees, property lines, etc. We can also talk about what to NOT do given your specific location.
An ADU is an investment in your home, your neighborhood and in your community. It can greatly enhance the everyday use of your space, as well as your property’s value. In my experience, in over 90% of all cases, an existing building will not be able to be “converted” to a home. It is not that it is impossible, it’s just very cost prohibitive and more cost and design effective to start from scratch.
Each Site is Unique
Every site is unique. Unfortunately some builders use the same plan over and over. They ignore both the challenges and potential of the site. An architect will efficiently use the space and take full advantage of all that the site offers.
If you would like to know more about bundling or would like to discuss your project with an established residential architect, email me or call me at 651-210-7042 and we can talk about your project before you decide next steps.
Five Phases of Architectural Planning
Predesign Phase:
This includes our initial meeting at your home and the discussion of options, possibilities and budget. We can create a wish list of which spaces are important. Also, an overall bud-get should be put put together in this phase. From there I will collect information from the city such as: what site restrictions there are like, what the setbacks are, what is the height limit, and lot coverage, etc.
Schematic Design Phase:
I will develop conceptual designs. These are preliminary bubble diagram/ rough sketches that incorporate your design ideas and wish list. There might be several different design options for floor plans and location on the site. This process will go back and forth with you until we are happy with the design and have settled on a sketch.
Design Development Phase:
After choosing a design to move forward with, I will refine the floor plans and overall look based on your comments and the reality of building i.e. thinking about small details, light, flow, your lifestyle and any special accommodations (such as using universal design to allow for aging in place).
Construction Documents Phase:
This is the final step for drawing. The CDs will show all the information needed for the builder to construct your new home. Depending on the level of detail we decide to show, the CDs can show just the minimum required to get a building permit or can be more descriptive to show elements such as interior elevations, finish trim and window grids, electrical plan, lighting placement and other facets of design. Having more detailed drawings also enables the builder to give us more accurate pricing. So, instead of a ballpark number that has a span of tens of thousands of dollars, with detailed CDs the builder will know which materials he will need to use and the skill and time required to implement the design features shown. In my experience, the more detailed the drawings are, the less room there is for misunderstanding and error.
Construction Admin Phase:
In this phase, I ensure the home gets built the way the drawings show. I coordinate with the builder regarding timelines, materials and method of installation and finish carpentry. I do site visits as needed (typically once a week for one to two hours) but during the height of construction when things move at a faster rate it might be twice a week. In addition to onsite personal supervision and quality assurance, my presence on site is conducive to improved communication between the builder and me. This also allows me to answer your questions and immediately address any concerns. When builders are unsure of a design feature or misinterpret a plan they typically just move forward based on “the way we’ve always done it.” When I am on site I discuss with the foreman and team member show things should be done to achieve the look that is depicted in the drawings. I have over 40 years of construction experience and have personally built and remodeled 5 of my own homes. I know how a structure is put together, the tools needed and the steps required to do things right. I do not allow for cheaper material substitutions or cut corners. This onsite supervision, client advocacy and flow of communication prevents a loss of time and money and I have found is crucial for overall quality.
Before you sign up with any contractor ensure your best interests are being taken into account. I am working for you and not the bottom line.