The CSA Process
No matter how big or small, each project is guided by a focused and disciplined process, bringing your vision, intentions, and aspirations to life.
Initial Conversation
Tell us about YOU!
Tell us about your needs, wishes, and how you want to live
What experiences or travels have inspired you, architecturally?
What values or priorities should we know about?
Site Analysis
Let’s walk the site.
Commission a topographical survey (a detailed map of your property)
Review opportunities for natural light
Walk the site and identify primary views
Discuss connections to neighbors, water, and nature
Review zoning requirements and building codes
Pre-Design | Programming
You talk, we listen.
Explore inspiration images
Develop a comprehensive room-by-room wish list
Understand sustainability and energy-efficiency goals
Set realistic budget parameters
Design | Schematic
Our “first pass” at your dream home.
Preliminary diagrams
Floor plan options and exterior 3D view
Refined floor plans and exterior elevations
Defining a master plan for phased projects
Ballpark budgeting
Design | Development
Working from “big” to “small”, we refine the design.
Explore details of cabinetry and finishes
Delineate materials that are both artistic, functional, and sustainable
Recommend most appropriate fixtures and appliances based on cost and usage
Using our industry experience, we help you identify the project team:
General Contractor
Interior Designer
Landscape Designer
Other Consultants: A/V, Lighting, HVAC
Construction Documents
Quality technical documents are critical to the success of your project.
The Architect leads the coordination of the contractor, interior designers and consultants.
CSA dedicates a large percentage of our time to creating highly detailed and accurate documents.
Technical drawings and specifications are required for permit requirements and code compliance.
Most importantly, comprehensive documents ensure a successful return on your design investment.
Construction
We are your advocate throughout the bidding and construction process.
We answer contractor questions and provide clarifications to ensure accurate bidding.
We decipher and interpret contractor bids to help you select your best builder.
We work with city authorities to obtain the required construction permits.
We collaborate with the contractor in regular construction meetings and site visits.
We field contractor questions and provide details for unforeseen conditions.
We review and approve cabinetry, truss, steel, and other shop drawings.
We review change orders and approve payment to contractors.
We stay with you through the completion of the punch list to ensure that every detail of your new home is beautifully finished.
