Design of a Home: A Process of Discovery

Every client makes decisions differently and every project evolves in a unique fashion. However for the design of a home, the big steps are always the same. The initial meeting is a conversation to establish the goals, scope, and budget. The completion of this meeting usually leaves the architect with a really good idea of the direction the project is going. In the case of this particular project, these initial bubble diagrams and resulting sketch is very similar to the end project almost a year later.

Design of a home

The next phase is where time is spent figuring out the details. For instance, how does one room relate to another, what furniture goes where, who will use that room and for what purpose? The process of design is as much figuring out the right questions as it is providing aesthetic solutions.

Design of a home

Once you have a good idea of the details, then you can focus on the aesthetics of the design. Of course this is not a singular action, as a good designer is thinking about all aspects throughout the design process. This is just the time where you really dive in and find the best solution to achieve the goals.

Design of a home

Then back to the details – making the small parts compliment the large decision.

Design of a home

I always advocate to have the contractor involved early on so that decisions can all be made with budget in mind. As an architect, we have a general understanding of installed costs of materials, but only a contractor can provide detailed costs that are accurate.

Design of a home

The design process will include many conversations about materials, costs, aesthetics, and durability.

Design of a home

Once the decisions are made for design and a construction contract can be executed, let the dirt fly.

Design of a home

Here the footings are being poured.

Design of a home

Now the walls are being constructed.

Design of a home

I cannot wait to show you more as this project progresses. If you have more questions about the design of a home and what your process may look like, please don’t hesitate to ask.