The Process
SIX STEPS. ZERO SURPRISES
A clear, predictable path from first idea to move‑in. No drama. No surprises. No guesswork
STEP 1: Modern Vision Assessment (MVA)
The diagnostic phase that prevents costly mistakes before they happen.
zoning + setback analysis
feasibility + constraints
realistic budget alignment
site + context review
opportunities for improvement
timeline expectations
Why this step matters
Why the MVA exists
Most homeowners begin a project without clear information about zoning, feasibility, or realistic budgets. The MVA was created to give you clarity before committing to full design, so decisions are made with confidence from the start.
Typical Project Timeline
Feasibility & zoning clarity: 1–2 weeks
Concept design: 4–8 weeks
Permitting: 4–8 weeks
Construction: 3–6 months
Every project is different, but clarity upfront prevents surprises later.
Outcome: You know exactly what’s possible before you commit to full design.
STEP 2: Concept Design
Your vision becomes a clear, buildable spatial concept
Outcome: A clear, confident roadmap for your future home
STEP 3: Visualization & Refinement
Virtual walkthroughs. Light studies. Layout refinement.
Outcome: No spatial surprises - you’ve already “lived” in the design
STEP 4: Technical Documentation & Permitting
Precision drawings. Material detailing. Permit management.
What Drawings You Actually Need
Concept Design: explore ideas, layouts, and possibilities
Permit Set: zoning‑checked, code‑compliant drawings for county approval
Construction Set: details your contractor uses to build accurately
You don’t need to know which set you need — I guide you through it.
Outcome: Permit‑ready, buildable plans your contractor can execute with confidence
STEP 5: Construction Advocacy
You’re not alone during construction. Site visits, contractor coordination, quality control
Why an Architect Matters During Construction
Architects make sure what they build is legal, safe, and aligned with your vision.
My role is to protect your investment by:
confirming what’s allowed
designing something that fits your home and lifestyle
preventing costly surprises
giving contractors clear, buildable drawings
This keeps your project on track — and keeps you in control
Outcome: Your design is built exactly as intended — with clarity, oversight, and advocacy
STEP 6: Move‑In & Beyond
Punch list. Final adjustments. Long‑term support.
Outcome: A home that works beautifully from day one — and continues to support your life for years to come
Design without the drama
Why this matters
Renovations often feel overwhelming — delays, budget surprises, and contractor pressure can derail even the best intentions
How we keep your project steady
clear communication throughout the project
decisions made at the right time, not rushed
design protected from contractor influence
budget alignment established early
documentation that prevents surprises
support during construction when needed
The result
A calm, predictable process that lets you enjoy watching your home come together.
After the process
What We Do
Our process creates clarity from day one — and that same clarity guides every project we take on.
We help DC‑area homeowners modernize and expand their homes with clarity, intention, and long‑term livability.
Project types
Planning your budget
Establishing your budget early prevents surprises and ensures every design decision supports your goals
Typical project budgets
additions: 350k to 750k
whole‑home renovations: 450k to 900k
custom homes: 900k and up
What’s included in our services
concept design
spatial planning
3D visualization
material + finish direction
detailed drawings
permit‑ready plans
builder coordination + suppor
What’s not included
structural engineering
surveys
geotechnical reports
interior decorating
contractor labor and construction
Who we’re a good fit for
homeowners who value modern design
people who want clarity before committing
projects needing thoughtful reconfiguration
clients who prefer a calm, predictable process
FAQ
What is the right budget for a custom modern home or renovation?
The single biggest fear clients face is the unknown cost. We solve that fear by creating budget certainty before you invest in full design.
The "right budget" depends entirely on your goals, but our initial engagement is always fixed-fee:
Modern Vision Assessment (MVA): We begin with this non-binding consultation for a fixed fee of $1,500. It delivers a realistic project budget, site analysis, zoning review, and a clear picture of what's possible on your property — before any drawing starts.
Tiered Design Plans: Once the MVA is complete, our full design services are structured into three clear packages — Essential Clarity (7%), Full Project Confidence (9%), and Signature Oversight (11%) of estimated construction costs. You select the level of service that matches your budget and project complexity.
We never want you to be surprised. Start with the MVA to gain total clarity on your project's cost and scope.
Am I obligated to hire you after the Review?
Absolutely not. The MVA is a standalone consultation. You own everything we produce — the budget range, zoning analysis, and site review — whether you move forward with us or not.
What is the typical timeline for a full custom home?
12 to 18 months total depending on scope, permitting jurisdiction, and contractor availability. The MVA gives you the earliest and most reliable schedule estimate for your specific project.
Do you stay involved during construction?
Yes. We stay involved through construction administration — conducting site visits, answering contractor questions, reviewing work quality, and ensuring your design is built exactly as intended. We don't disappear when the hammers start.
Do you recommend or manage the contractors for my project?
Yes — we help you find the right construction partner for your project. We have no financial relationships with any contractors, so our recommendations are based solely on who we believe is the best fit for your home, your budget, and your timeline.