Code + Concepts

Our Premium Package provides a comprehensive foundation for your project, including code review, site analysis, and conceptual layout design. We assess zoning and regulatory requirements, evaluate site conditions, and develop preliminary floor plan options tailored to your goals. This package is ideal for clients looking to explore design possibilities with confidence and clarity.

Code Review

Zoning codes govern the buildable area, density, lot coverage, building sizes, and parking, among other things. These codes differ for every city and are usually not easy to understand. Understanding the zoning type for a property is a fundamental step in any development project, ensuring compliance with local regulations and avoiding potential legal issues. Zoning approval is often required before obtaining a building permit.

  • Permitted Uses: Zoning defines what types of buildings and activities are allowed in a specific area. This could include: 

    1. Residential: Single-family homes, multi-family dwellings, apartments.

    2. Commercial: Retail, office, mixed-use developments, hotels, restaurants.

    3. Industrial: Manufacturing plants, warehouses, research facilities.

    4. Agricultural: Farming, livestock, open space.

    5. Special Purpose: Planned unit developments, historic districts, open space, floodplains.

    Building Regulations: Zoning ordinances specify requirements for building size, height, setbacks from property lines, lot coverage, and parking. 

    Activity Restrictions: Zoning laws can also regulate specific activities, such as noise levels, hours of operation, signage, and waste management. 

  • Zoning Summary Report
    A written summary outlining key zoning regulations applicable to the site, such as permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, floor area ratio (FAR), lot coverage, and parking requirements.

    Code Compliance Matrix
    A chart or table showing how the proposed design complies (or will comply) with applicable zoning and building codes.

    Zoning Diagrams
    Specific drawings that illustrate zoning setbacks, buildable envelope, height limits, and other constraints directly on the site plan

Site Analysis

The property itself influences what to build and where. Topography, views, driveway access, utility locations, trees and vegetation, and rock formations play a role in determining how best to utilize the site. In addition, the local weather, sun path, and wind directions are also influencers.

  • Environmental Site Conditions

    We explore options for house orientation to determine which strategies are best for passive solar, maximizing views, and reducing the impact on the land

    Site Selection

    When trying to choose between various properties or even sites on the same property, we help analyze sites and make suggestions about the pros and cons of each in relation to our client’s anticipated goals for the project.

  • Programming and Planning Presentation

    1. Existing satellite images of the site and surrounding areas over time and topography

    2. Environmental Site Conditions Map

    Site Plan

    1. Property Lot and Dimensions

    2. Existing Building Footprint

    3. Topography 

    4. Other Building Structures

Concept Layouts

This phase focuses on exploring design options, defining the project's scope, and establishing the general form and function of the building and involves creating schematic drawings. The goal is to develop a conceptual understanding of the project that aligns with your vision and budget.

  • Consultation

    A virtual, or in-person, meeting to understand the vision, goals, budget, timeline, and aesthetic preferences

    As-Builts 

    Documenting the existing conditions is a necessary step in Concept Design. Everything interior and exterior from existing walls, roof, doors and windows to HVAC locations bearing walls and beams.

  • Project Summary and Narrative

    1. A written description of the project goals, scope, and design approach including inspiration images.

    Field Measure

    1. On-site visit for documenting dimensions and existing condition photos

    Floor Plans

    1. Existing and New floor plans with estimated square footage, room names and furniture placement

    Building Sections - As req’d

    1. New Building sections showing ceiling heights, roof lines and foundation

    Elevations - As req’d

    1. New exterior elevations of all sides of the building

    Site plan - As req’d

    1. New birds-eye-view of the property with lot dimensions and building footprint.

    3D Views - As req’d

    1. Exterior views of all corners of the building, showing existing and new design.

Unsure which package suits your needs?

Contact me to discuss the best fit for your project—schedule a free consultation today.