It will depend on the jurisdiction and the size of your project. Some states will allow you to do your own design if it fits some basic criteria such as not exceeding 2 stories comprised of a traditional wood framing.

That said, you’ll still need to develop all the required drawings and submit for the necessary building permits which can be a tedious and time-consuming endeavor in and of itself. Additionally, Contractors, interior designers, sub-contractors and others who need to reference the drawings may struggle reading plans that aren’t drawn using industry standard conventions, leading to change orders, delays and added costs. A well put together construction drawing set from a reputable architect is worth it’s weight in gold.

As soon as you are serious about moving forward with your project you should hire your architect. Your architect can help you with a lot of “Pre-design” activities that need to be completed before any design concepts are considered including:

- Determining the final room and space list for your project compared your estimated budget

- Determining what you’re allowed to build on your site according to your local zoning and building codes.

- Hiring consultants for surveying and soil analysis

If you aren’t in a rush, you can be up front with your architect to coordinate schedules but you at least want to have them available as a resource to start planning.

Nope! In fact, many architects will refuse to work with you if you bring them plans to modify. Architects work by analyzing all of your design goals relative to the unique site you’ve chosen to develop an optimal design, custom for you. If you are adamant about using a plan you found online or from someone else, you are giving yourself unnecessary hurdles to overcome. Trust your architect and collaboratively develop a custom plan, specific to your needs.

Yes! Being licensed in CA means I can easily get a reciprocal license in all states across the country. I have plenty of experience working remote on projects out of state (and out of the country!). If you’re curious about your location, shoot me an email to discuss.

I can provide estimates during the Pre-Design phase based on the size and scope of your program. It will be refined as the design process gets more detailed. A formal construction budget will be produced by your contractor once we have a full set of construction documents for a contractor to bid from. No reputable contractor will give you a price until you can provide a complete plan set for them to review.

Yes! Connecting you with reputable people to work with is one of the core services I provide. If we’re working in a new area, I can help network and vet local designers to make sure they’ll provide quality work.

I do not currently offer any plans to purchase. All designs I produce are custom to each client I work with.

You’ll be working directly with me through all phases of your project. As a solo-architect, I will be personally oversee the production of all designs and drawings.

Yes, if the expectations and budget are realistic. Often people explore remodels believing it is cheaper than new construction. Unfortunately, extensive remodels are often not much cheaper than new construction and have the additional constraint of having to work within the existing structure. That means you’re paying a lot for something that limits the ways in which we can design something that exactly fits your lifestyle.

If you’re exploring a remodel for historical or sustainable reasons, and understand that it won’t necessarily be the cheapest and most flexible route, then we’re on the same page and it might be a good fit!