Residential architectural design guide
From concept to permit: a clear residential design process.
A sequence of decisions made at the right level of detail.
What happens during site study and schematic design?
A successful residential project moves through a series of decisions, each made at the right level of detail. The process begins by defining the site, program, priorities, budget, schedule, and likely permitting path. Schematic design then tests plans, massing, orientation, circulation, and the home’s relationship to the site while major changes are still manageable.
How does the design become construction documents?
During design development, the selected direction gains structural, material, enclosure, mechanical, and code definition. Construction documents translate those decisions into a coordinated drawing set used for pricing, engineering, permit review, and construction.
What happens during permit review and construction?
Permit comments, builder questions, substitutions, and field conditions are normal parts of building. Clear documentation and responsive coordination help the project maintain its intent as it moves from drawings into construction.
Choosing a designer is also about communication and confidence in the work. Our guide to choosing an architect or residential building designer offers a practical starting point.