No matter the style, size, or location of a home, it is crucial that all aspects of the project are considered right from the start.

Obviously there are different considerations that would be made when designing a house for the homeowner, as opposed to designing a spec house for a builder. It goes from a personal stake in long term ownership and livability, versus transactional quality and reputation. Construction quality is important, but design can make or break the home.

Project Scope:

A. Pricing and Personal Goals - Determine function of the home, level of "green" (eco-friendly) design, and a realistic cost point and timeline for the project. Determine municipal requirements and restrictions.

B. Floor Plan Requirements - Determine rooms, layout, size, levels, garage, decks/porch, etc.

C. Interior Elements - Choose flooring, cabinets, fireplaces, appliances, arches/columns, window and door styles, etc.

D. Exterior Elements - General design style, siding, roof material, roof overhang & pitches, windows, doors, etc.

E. Site Information - Determine locations of utilities and current landscaping features (sidewalks, rocks, trees, etc), topography, building orientation, setbacks, future landscaping, etc.

F. Special Requirements - RV parking, handicap accessible, extra parking, garden area, environmental impacts, landscape design, etc.

Project Sketch:

In this phase we define the scope of the project and refine the needs into a workable sketch and 3D renderings which will give the client the ability to view and visualize the basic design attributes of the project. We confirm requirements with the municipality and/or homeowners association. We provide JPEGSs, PDFs, and print 24x36 full size copies and leave them with the client to "live with" and mark up (redline) between meetings. We create a site plan to confirm structure placement & orientation, setbacks, etc.

Project Draft (Preliminaries):

Once the sketch is approved, we move to the project draft. In this phase we work on floor layout and 3D renderings in CAD format. Printed copies are produced and the client again has the opportunity to further refine the project until we have the final layout design approved by the client.

Project Plans (Backend):

In this phase the project is finalized, the other elements are completed (roof, foundation, structural, electrical plans, etc.), and multi-copied in full format for submittal to the local municipality for building department approval of the project. If engineering is required by the municipality, that would happen during this stage in the process. The printset can then be used by the builder to gain quotes on labor and materials for the project. Energy efficiency analysis and reports are also generated at this stage.

Project Construction:

We are available at any time during the construction process to be consulted on the functional application of the design elements. We enjoy being involved and seeing the final product.

FROM .......TO

From Sketch to Structure, ABC Drafting & Design Services is there all along the way providing great service,

with an Idaho accent!

Phone:  208-321-4008

E-Mail:  scott@abcid.com