To learn more call Joel Gagnon at 978.374.1497
Defined process delivers attention to detail
Initial consultation
Successful outcomes require more than knowledge of design and construction. There are certain intangibles that must be considered such as how family members interact with each other, within their environment. Architexture’s number one priority is to establish a strong relationship with you as a means of ensuring the best design suited to your needs, wishes and budget. Your dreams, ideas, needs and existing situation are studied to determine what works and where obstacles exist.
Field measurements and site evaluation
Now that you have selected Architexture to design your new home, addition or other construction project, your site and/or existing home will be evaluated. Property lines, setbacks, zoning requirements, topography, and existing landscaping are assessed. For the best analysis you are asked to provide a certified plot plan or mortgage deed site plan. For additions, your home will be measured from the basement to the attic for the purposes of creating a set of existing plans, elevations and sections. At this time, your budget will be discussed and analyzed to provide you with proper and realistic planning and design. Prior to commencement of any work, a detailed agreement is provided, listing all services provided to you as well as your requirements as a full partner in your project.
Schematic design and first proposal review
Following the review of your existing conditions or new home site, the design process begins. After much sketching—often producing multiple design solutions, one or two sketches are developed into schematic proposal drawings. These proposals are reviewed at your home and convenience. The drawing set includes plans, elevations, sections, site changes and interior perspectives showing the general direction of interior detailing. After careful review and discussion, any changes and alterations are noted for revision, and you will receive a set of the schematics for further review. If you have a definite builder at this stage, you are able to use these schematics to begin the cost estimating process.
Second proposal review
When the revisions from the first proposal review are completed, you are presented with a new set of schematic drawings for your approval. If additional changes are requested following this meeting, the changes will be incorporated into the final construction drawing set. You will have time to review any added changes as your final drawings progress.
Construction drawings
Construction drawings are the final set of drawings necessary for permits and the physical construction of your new home or addition. In the event you do not have a definitive general contractor, you will be supplied with multiple sets for competitive bids. Your final set of drawings include foundation plan, floorplans, elevations, sections, section details, interior elevations and details, schedules, electrical plans, framing plans and a site plan. You are in good hands as many builders and building inspectors comment that Architexture’s drawings are more complete, detailed and code-compliant than the vast majority of sets from architects and other residential designers. This level of accuracy and detail ensures accurate and complete bid prices and avoids budget ballooning and add-ons down the road. These thorough and meticulous drawings greatly facilitate and expedite the permitting process.
Bid review
This phase does not apply if you have a general contractor prior to the start of the project. If you have not selected a builder, a list of project-compatible builders will be provided for competitive bidding. These contractors are selected based on the project size, complexity and budget. Once bids have been received, we can review them together. You will be advised of the best contractor for your project. However, the final decision is always yours.
Construction supervision
As an additional service, you may opt to continue with Architexture for the duration of construction of your new home or addition. This service ensures that your project will be built and finished in exact accordance with the final construction drawings as custom designed for you. Your builder has given you a cost of construction based on the drawings and, therefore, the project must be built accordingly without add-ons unless you have requested something not shown in the final plans. This service also ensures approval by the local building inspector as Architexture conducts pre-inspection site walk-throughs aimed at identifying possible building code or construction infractions.