About
Over the past 35 plus years, we have successfully helped many homeowners with both new homes as well as large and small remodeling projects. Through the years we have developed a process that deals with the all too common problem of projects going over time and over budget, both architectural fees and construction costs.
As a registered California Architect I love to help transform my clients' unique needs and opportunities, adding a dash of something special, to create a house beyond their expectations, their personalized home.
I love to collaborate with my clients to figure out how to best put together the multiple pieces of the project and create spaces where everyone can feel comfortable and places that are responsive to, and in context with, our environment.
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Ian W.
Diane M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We like to have an initial meeting to find out what the client wants to do and so we can provide a realistic fee. Understanding the project goals is critical to be sure our clients' projects do not go over time and over budget caused by trial and error do-overs and changes during construction.
Communication during a step-by-step process is key: 1) understand the project goals, 2) review and confirm with the client that the proposed design matches those goals, 3) identify permits required, and then 4) transform the design into the technical and engineering drawings needed for permitting, bidding, and construction.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University fo Southern California. I am a registered California Architect and a LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). More importantly. I have 45 years of practical experience working with clients, building departments, and contractors.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Each project requires a custom, one-of-a-kind design to match the client's unique needs. We customize our fee proposal based on the best approach needed for the project.
Generally, when the project is not well defined or is open-ended, such as evaluating the feasibility of multiple sites, we prefer to charge hourly rates. When the scope of architect's services and the size and scope of the project is well defined, we are able to propose a fixed fee.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
How can you make sure you choose the right architect? It’s impossible to be absolutely certain that you’ve found someone trustworthy and with whom you will enjoy working, but there are some steps you can take to find a good match. First, look for architects who specialize in the type of project you want to build and who's past work is similar to your vision. Second, organize your thoughts about project size, style, budget and schedule. Then meet with the architects to share this information and to see if you are compatible. Your best bet is probably to pick the architect you like the best and with whom you feel most comfortable. You’ll be spending time together, so you’ll be glad that you chose the best fit with regard to personality.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
An architect’s largest obstacle is finding out you want and need. Organizing your preferences, goals and objectives will help you sort out which architects are the best match for you and your project and help the architect propose an appropriate fee.
First step is simply what is the project: a new custom home, a second floor addition, or kitchen remodel?
How big is this project? How many square feet or number of rooms? How many bedrooms, baths and what other rooms or activities do you want the house to have?
What kind of image, look, or style do you envision?
Do you have a budget for how much you want to spend for this project? Remember the budget not only includes the cost of construction and finishes, it needs to include architect's fees as well as permit and other government fees.
Don't forget to include the big goals you want to achieve like taking advantage of a special view, easily entertaining friends and family, or having a home that gives you "that" thrill every time you walk in!