Are you dreaming on your perfect home? Whether it’s a custom new build or a remodel-addition, no matter how big or small your home project is, whether you realize it or not, there are 3 MAIN STAGES that you'll find yourself in.
Think of this journey as a road-trip, your home being the final destination.
Here's the 3 STAGE ROADMAP for going from "dreaming" to "moving in".
Plan
Design
Build
Each stage builds on the previous one, just like a house starts with the foundation. Often, people are so eager to start construction that they forget the importance of planning and designing. Or they rush through design like a chore that needs to be quickly finished before the actual fun begins. You know the saying, “don’t put the cart before the horse!”. They realize too late the error in their approach.
PLAN
During the planning stage, you are in the driver’s seat. You get to pick your destination and who’s coming along. Define your vision, goals, and priorities. Establish a budget and timeline. Think about the experience you want throughout this process. Knowing your project and yourself first will help you identify who to hire. Grab my free guide if you need help with this part.
The goal of the planning stage is to choose the right architect that is a perfect fit for you and your project. This is a crucial decision that sets the stage for everything that follows. So choose wisely :).
2. DESIGN
During the design stage, your Architect takes the wheel and you’re in the passenger’s seat. They drive the project and steer the direction. The architect will take the lead and guide you through their process, designing a custom home that (hopefully) caters to your needs, reflects your style, and meets all the requirements. Your architect will refer surveyors, engineers, interior designers, and any other consultants whose expertise is required on your project. They will also connect you with a builder who will be the right fit for you and your project. Imagine not having to worry about any of this!!(Unless you want to!!) A good architect will shoulder all that burden with their project management skills and take care of you throughout the process, a good design is just the start. That’s the beauty of finding the architect who is right for you!
3. BUILD
During the build stage, your Builder drives the project, you’re in the passenger seat, and the architect takes the backseat. The builder manages the construction schedule and budget, while following the instructions laid out in the architectural and structural drawings. The builder will lean on their sub-contractors, trades, vendors, resources, connections, and relationships they’ve built over the years, so your project progresses on schedule. Work is done in a safe and timely manner, according to best building practices, and all you have to do is write the checks.
TEAM WORK
The architect, designer, engineer, builder, and you as the client, we’re a team effort - we all collaborate to ensure you reach the destination you dreamed about.
Read more about how to assemble a great team for your home project.
the 3 stages are a simple framework for success.
As an Austin Architect who has spent the last 20+ years designing and building custom homes, I guide my clients through each stage of the process.
My advice is to spend more time in the planning stage in order to lay a good foundation for successful next stages.
Then, spend quality time in thoughtful design as well as producing a thorough set of construction documents i.e. drawings and specifications. Do not rush through this middle stage - it's easier to change things on paper than with a construction crew on site. This makes the final stage of bidding and construction an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
At Architecture By George, I've created a step-by-step process in each stage with specific milestones within each stage to ensure that you make sound decisions and your project progresses as smoothly as possible.
The result is a home that you are in love with. Your home is tailored to your needs, supports for your family in various seasons of life, acknowledges the hot and humid Austin climate, and fits on your unique site. You are proud to own this home for many years into the future. No regrets!
Want to start planning your custom home in Austin, Texas? I can help.
Schedule a free call with me. We can discuss your vision, goals, and priorities and find the path to the home of your dreams.
Cheers,
Sharon George.