process

Architectural Design is a collaborative process, whereby a client presents a basic need for shelter and an Architect transforms that need into something special. For the Architect, it's all about listening to the Client, making order out of chaos, finding harmony out of discord, and creating simplicity out of complexity. And, it's what Symmetry Architects does with a passion.

01 | PRE-DESIGN | getting to know you + developing a building program

  • Collect survey plat

  • Create square footage estimate

  • Prepare contract + initial retainer

  • Perform zoning analysis

  • Review architectural design guidelines

  • Site visit with client

  • Tour client’s existing home (optional)

  • Kick-off meeting to review client survey and inspiration images

02 | SCHEMATIC DESIGN | what’s the big idea?

  • Draw site plan in CAD with setbacks, trees, and topography

  • Create hand drawn conceptual design sketches of site plan + floor plans

  • Draw floor plans in CAD with room sizes + basic furniture layout

  • Create area calculation table of air-conditioned and non-conditioned spaces

  • Design sketches of front elevation

  • Two or three design review meetings with client + project team, then repeat process as needed

03 | DESIGN DEVELOPMENT | ideas begin taking shape

  • Create 3D model of residence using SketchUP

  • Minor adjustments to floor plan as necessary

  • Create “pin-wheel” drawing of exterior elevations and roof plan

  • Two or three design review meetings with client + project team, then repeat process as needed

  • Create “pricing set” of drawings for builder construction estimate

04 | CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS | how will the house be assembled?

  • Draw exterior elevations, building sections and roof plan in ACAD

  • Draw exterior door + window types

  • Draw typical wall sections and detailsdesign and draw lighting + power plans

  • Two design review meetings with client + project team

  • Issue permit ready set of drawings to builder

05 | CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION | we monitor + support

  • Site visits to observe construction

  • Provide phone call support if needed to clarify design intent

  • Provide additional detail drawings (if necessary)