Listening to our clients is crucial to understanding each project’s goals. Once the goals are established, we get to work by following our design process. The images to the left capture the steps we take for a remodel/addition project. Starting with the existing home, or with initial planning ideas for a new home, we’ll work towards detailed construction drawings and interior details. Here’s a little more information about each design phase:
We Meet: Design requirements are discussed in this first meeting, and questions are answered. How can the design serve your lifestyle goals? What are your tastes? What kind of timeline and budget are you hoping for?
We Design: You will be presented with two or three design options in schematic form. One is chosen to take forward.
We Develop: The chosen design is refined. All details are considered, such as cabinet layouts, lighting and finishes. We’ll provide a basic set of plans so your builder can put some preliminary costs together. If needed, we’ll make adjustments to the design.
We Document: Detailed drawings are created for permits and construction, in coordination with the structural engineer.
We Build: RD Architecture is involved throughout permitting and construction, selecting final finishes and fixtures, answering contractor questions and reviewing progress. Too busy to deal with day to day construction decisions? We’ll take the reins on behalf of our client, so the experience of building is what it should be – an enjoyable journey.
Call us at 713.432.7377 to discuss your dream project.
Art and science are at their best when joined hand in hand. From rendered sketches to detailed construction drawings we’ll explore design ideas and then document the details. We’ll place equal emphasis on the aesthetics and the performance of your project.
Let’s start with art. It’s about the form a specific project takes from the outside style and massing to inside light and proportion. The flow of a home is carefully orchestrated to unfold comfortably yet evocatively. We’ll select and detail finishes and fixtures that suit your tastes. The success of a project depends on the thoughtfulness that goes into the smallest of details.
Now science. From the beginning we’ll set square footage goals, so your project stays within an expected size. Pricing drawings are produced to help you understand construction costs. We’ll advise you on decisions that will affect the energy efficiency of your home into the future. And we’ll produce detailed construction drawings for the builder.
Science is also prevalent in our green approaches. We’ll offer options that follow LEED guidelines. We understand that every client has different ideas and priorities about green design, and we always look for appropriate opportunities. This might mean a simple recommendation such as using low VOC paint or a dual flush toilet. Or it could be larger scale, such as incorporating a solar or geothermal system into a project.
At a project’s completion, the art of design is what you’ll see and feel. It’s the beauty of a space. The science will be reflected in your utility bills. Reducing the impact your home or work space will have on the environment is a constant priority.