Answers to common questions about our services and process.
Architectural fees depend on the agreed scope, project complexity, deliverables and level of involvement. Describe your goals and budget so the studio can prepare a project-specific proposal. Ask what is included, which consultant services are separate and how changes to the scope are handled.
Bring your property address, photographs, a survey and existing drawings if available. A short list of priorities is more useful than having a finished design. Share your budget, preferred timing and any known property constraints; missing information can be discussed.
No. Start with the problems you want to solve, such as another bedroom, a more useful kitchen or better connections between rooms. The initial discussion can help identify whether feasibility work or a design phase is the next step.
Compare how each option addresses your needs, the existing building’s condition, the site, budget and disruption. Reworking a layout may solve some problems without adding space. Other goals may require an addition or a different approach. Your property needs its own assessment before a direction is chosen.
A second-story addition needs a property-specific assessment of the existing structure, stairs, roof, proposed rooms and applicable development limits. Structural engineering input may be needed. Examples in the portfolio show design approaches, but cannot establish what your house can support.
It investigates the questions agreed for the early stage of your project, using available site and building information. Findings can help identify options, constraints, missing information and next steps before detailed design. Confirm the deliverables in the proposal; a study does not guarantee approval.
Begin with goals and available property information. Early concepts help compare options; the selected direction is then developed into the drawings and details included in the agreed scope. Pricing, review and construction-phase involvement should be discussed as separate parts of the project, with responsibilities clearly defined.
Design decisions, the amount of work, existing information, consultant coordination, external reviews and contractor availability can all affect timing. Ask for a schedule that separates design, review and construction and identifies what decisions or documents are needed at each stage.
Confirm responsibilities in the project agreements. Architectural documents, application submission, contractor pricing and construction management are different tasks. Ask which services the architect will provide and which belong to the owner, contractor or another consultant.
It depends on the construction sequence, utilities, access and whether occupied rooms can remain safely separated from the work. Discuss phasing and temporary accommodation with the project team and contractor before construction begins.
The studio’s service pages cover pre-design and feasibility studies, architectural design, residential and commercial architecture, interior design and construction administration. The services needed for your project will depend on its scope and should be confirmed in the proposal.
The studio is based at 704 Center Street in Garwood, New Jersey, serving nearby communities including Westfield, Cranford, Summit, Scotch Plains and others listed on the service-area page. Meetings are by appointment. Contact the studio to discuss your property and meeting arrangements.
We're here to help. Get in touch and we'll answer any questions you have about your project.
Licensed Architect - NJ, NY, PA, VA