Why We Exist

Every project is in a totally different situation. If the building is not responding to it's context - the neighbors, views, sun, code, and the habits of it's inhabitants - then its not the right solution.

Se we start every project with a thorough study of the site with its legal restrictions, neighbors, topography, existing structures, views and it's positioning.

We move back and forth with sun studies throughout the project to design how natural light moves through and around the building at different times of the year.

By listening to the site we can then enhance a sense of place adjusting it to your goals in a way that makes sense long term.

We then establish the relationships between individual spaces and through the entire composition. Here we design the shape and feeling of spaces, the relationship between them, how one moves to and through them, and how sightlines and sun work to enhance them.

Its a complex and dynamic dance that bridges the hyper practical organization of pieces and places to the sensory experience of the people who will experience them. It's a game of rythm and scale, balance and adjacency so that flow meets function.

In this stage we are working with other specialists needed in the project that range from engineers to contractors, and trades like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC specialists. We balance practical need and means/methods of the specialist with the design intent of the project. These are the layers you can't see but that will make it come together.

In this phase we also work on the material finishes through the project thinking not just about how things look but also how they feel and function. We love honest material expression: simply finished wood that highlights grain texture, metal, glass, simple tile, and stone. But we balance material expression with budget needs always.

We develop the whole set of drawings needed to make and permit your building. At this stage, we add a finer grain of design by creating a series of details included in the documents to make sure the design intent is met by the contractors.

We are experts in moving your project through the permitting process, handling all the submittals and corrections up till it is ready-to-issue.

Permitting is important, though of course it takes a little time and adds a little cost, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. Keep in mind that not every change needs a full permit set to comply; some things can be done with simple over the counter forms. But don't worry, we will be there to take care of it and choose the path of least resistance.