We use the following design/build process with our builders to ensure we deliver the best possible services to you on a consistent basis.
Step 1: Introductory Meeting
Whether on the phone, through e-mail, or in person, the first step is to paint a broad picture of what you are looking for! During the introductory meeting, we gather as much information as possible in order to eliminate the need for multiple meetings. This includes the major ideas, such as size and style of the home, the number of bedrooms you would like to have, and more. The first step is to identify your major needs, so we can start work together on getting the right house drawn for your development or individual client. We can start with a plan we have, a plan you have, sketches on a cocktail napkin, or even just imagination. Our designers will work with just about anything to get the ball rolling in the right direction.
Step 2: Preliminary Design Process
After the rough ideas have been established, we start the preliminary design process. At this point we work with you to bring all of the ideas to life on paper. These drawings are simplified concepts to get sizes and layouts right. The preliminary designs will show most of the basic information, such as room labels and sizes, door and general window sizing, as well as appliances and cabinets in kitchen and laundry areas. Simplified dimensions are also part of the preliminary design, to give you a rough idea of overall sizes, and to help make sure we can design the plan to meet all necessary lot setbacks or special requirements.
Step 3: Exterior Elevations/Bid Set
With the floor plan shaping up, we can begin to draw the elevations, as well as a rough cross section or details to help get the plan ready for bid. As the preliminary designs become more focused, we can zero in on creating the rest of the house exactly as needed. This set is still a pared down version of final documents, meant to help shore up numbers on your end and prevent any surprises in construction costs. If we are working off an existing plan, this step can be bypassed in many cases if everything looks ready to move into the final construction documents.
Step 4: Final Construction Documents
With the final changes ironed out, and the elevations mostly completed, we begin the final construction documents. At this stage all major changes should be completed, and we can work in minor adjustments as necessary. These drawings contain all four exterior elevations, front, rear, left, and right, the foundation plan, main level, upper level, and bonus room floor plans (as applicable), roof plan, cross sections, and additional details as required. As each project is unique, so is each set of construction documents. Any specific construction notes, such as material notes, window specifications, insulation notes, will also be added as needed.
Step 5: Final Modifications, Finishing the Project
After the documents are complete and into your hands, we move into the billing phase of the project. Sometimes things go slightly awry, or unforeseen circumstances rear their head. Perhaps there was a mistake in surveying or the elevation needs to be modified to meet a certain city code. While we strive for a finished project the first time around, it is possible that new conditions may pop up. In this case we are always available to make final adjustments to ensure the project works out. This may also come with a small price change, though we will inform you of anything that would potentially adjust the project cost. We never want to leave you with anything less than the utmost satisfaction, and will keep you informed throughout the whole process until everything is resolved.
After moving through each of the 5 steps, you should be well on your way to a smooth construction process and a satisfied customer. We always love to hear from our clients, and if you have any feedback throughout the process, feel free to let us know. The best feeling we have here at Croix is knowing that we have been able to provide a pristine product with excellent customer service. If you are ready to design with a company that works with you each step of the way, give us a call today at (763) 757-5997, and see what Croix Design and Drafting can do for you and your business.