Resources
Pre-Design Phase
- Initial meeting to review your goals and needs
- Preparation and agreement on our scope of services
- Measuring your existing spaces
- As-built drawings are created
- Review zoning, building code, structural, mechanical, electrical systems, ravines and forestry
- Finalize needs and wants
Schematic Design Phase
- Conceptual design options explored
- Spatial relationships analyzed in concert with zoning by-laws
- 3D Sketch model created
- Meet with you to review initial ideas
Design Development Phase
- Feedback from Schematic Design decisions incorporated into final design drawings
- Prepare final design drawings for Client approval
- Coordinate with subconsultants for integrating systems into design
- Prepare preliminary project budget
- Submit for Zoning review by the Municipal Authority
- Committee of Adjustment application and hearing, if required
Building Permit/Construction Docs
- Upon approval of design, budget and zoning, construction detailed documents are prepared
- Coordinate with sub-consultants to integrate their work into the design
- Submit Building Permit application and correspond with Authorities
- Written Scope of Work/Specifications prepared for pricing
- Interior finishes and fixtures are selected
- Meet with you and General Contractor to discuss pricing and construction details
Construction Administration
- The careful planning pays off and construction begins
- Construction contract is finalized
- We remain involved to review Contractor’s questions and findings as demolition unfolds and as construction continues
- Revise and prepare drawings needed for Construction
- Review manufacturer shop drawings – Windows, Doors, Interior finishes, Millwork Stairs
- Communicate with the Contractor and Client
- Site Review and Contractor payment review
- Client’s move in
QUESTIONS + ANSWERS
Why do I need an architect?
Architects add value to every project. They bring professional ethics and knowledge to ensure that the work is designed not only to meet building code requirements and safety standards, but also to provide long term value with respect to environmental and community context, energy efficiency, accessibility, user comfort and aesthetic assets. Architects assist with the myriad decisions required to achieve a successful outcome, from choosing the best light fixtures, to negotiating municipal approvals to finding the right builder. We bring our extensive experience to the job site to coordinate various systems into cohesive functional and comfortable design solutions.
What does an architect do?
Architects are involved in every phase of a design project, including planning, envisioning, drafting, specifying finishes, problem-solving with the contractor, and ensuring the finished product meets the required safety standards.
How will I know L+C is the right design firm for my Project?
Finding the right service provider is key to the successful outcome of a project. Your Architect will be a trusted advisor throughout the project, therefore you should have a good rapport with them. We endeavour to educate and communicate with you throughout the process, as we understand that most clients will only experience this process once.
What should I expect if I decide to engage with your studio ?
You can expect professional service, great design, and innovative solutions. Review our process page to learn more about the steps a typical project progresses through.
What happens at the initial meeting?
The initial meeting is an opportunity for all parties to introduce themselves, visit the property if possible, and exchange goals and ideas. We will provide an overview of our services and process. After this meeting we will prepare a scope of work and fee proposal document for your consideration. The meeting will last approximately one hour.
What is the right budget for the job?
Project budgets are subject to many differing factors, however there are some general rules of thumb that we can apply to your project to create an ‘order of magnitude’ budget to begin your planning. These numbers vary with market conditions, location and type of work. Please contact us to provide more details and we will assist with providing an initial budget to consider.
How much does the architect’s services cost?
Different architects and designers offer different levels of service, so it’s important to understand what is and isn’t included if you are comparing fees. At L+C, we believe a high level of service is required to achieve great results. Depending on the scope of work and the scale of the project, our services for a complete project will range from 10% – 20% of the construction costs.
What is involved in the design process?
There are a series of design phases that we progress through, described above. Thorough planning ensures that the construction process proceeds smoothly. Starting with the big picture and progressing to more and more detailed decisions, we break down the process into smaller steps to make it more manageable and thorough. The best results occur when all parties come to the table open-minded and ready to explore possibilities that might not have seemed feasible or considered previously. Each decision is vetted and confirmed with you before moving on to the next step.
How long does the design process take?
The design process timeframe is affected by many factors such as: scale and complexity of the project, your decision making process, municipal approvals required, other stakeholder’s input, budgeting and fundraising, tendering, and construction availability. Whether your project is large or small, you should factor a minimum of four months of planning before any construction work starts. If zoning variances or other authority approvals are required, then allow six months or more before work begins.
Set yourself up for Success
Ask questions – there are no dumb questions! Communicate all of your thoughts, concerns, ideas – the more information we have to work with, the more inspired and tailored-made your project will be. Be prepared to be a respectful team player – there are many people involved in building and when all are valued members of the team, the best results are achieved. Bring your patience and sense of humour – the process is complex and there will be stumbling blocks along the way, but we’ve achieved some of our greatest designs when challenges are overcome with patience, grace, and creativity.
AddITIONAL RESOURCES
