Design Process Frequently Asked Questions

What information do you need to get started?
 

Whether we are looking for stock plans or designing from scratch, I always tell people to start with a file folder or notebook.  Clip and save pictures of homes with features that you like, appliances, fireplaces, porches, bathrooms, color combinations, etcetera.  Make a list of rooms such as living room, dining room, family room, laundry, mudroom, foyer, pantry, linen storage, closets, library, study or home office, bedrooms and bathrooms, who they are for, how big they are and what features they should include.  How much do you plan to spend on the project aside from land and furnishings?
 

There are lots of other questions that we'll discuss as we work out a design and budget.  Some of them are;
·                     Is this a primary residence or a second home? 
·                     How long you plan to stay in your new home; until the kids graduate, until retirement, through retirement? 
·                     What does your family do for fun?
·                     Do you cook alot, seldom, only on special occasions?
·                     Do you or your spouse work from the home? 
·                     Do you entertain?  Formally or informally?  How large of a group?  Do you use caterers when entertaining? 
·                     What kind of recreational activities and hobbies do you have? 
·                     Do you enjoy the yard, garden extensively, hire it out or ignore it?
·                     Are there things about your existing home or homes that you have seen that you don't like?
·                     What special systems do you want; security, network wiring, cable TV, satellite TV, intercom, audio,
                                     surround sound, home theater, central vacuum?
·                     What special pieces of furniture do you plan to bring or buy?