From First Sketch to Final Detail: Inside Our Design Process

Designing a custom home is a journey, and knowing the road ahead makes it far more enjoyable. Here's a look at how our projects unfold, from the first conversation to the final finishes.

Getting to know you

Every project starts with a consultation. We learn about your lifestyle, your site, your goals and your budget, and talk through what's possible.

A clear agreement

We provide a design contract outlining milestones, deliverables and associated fees, along with the roles and responsibilities of everyone involved, so the process is clear from day one.

Concept and design development

Through sketches, plans and visual references, we explore the direction together and refine it until it feels just right. Once a direction is established, we develop more detailed drawings and begin resolving the spatial layout, materials and key architectural elements.

Permits and approvals

We prepare and submit the drawings required for Development Permit approval, and continue refining the design while we wait. Next comes the Building Permit drawing set, which also provides the information needed for tender and pricing.

Final documentation

We create comprehensive design documents for pricing, tendering and construction, including everything from final layouts to exterior material and lighting layouts.

Interiors

Building on the architectural concept, we develop a refined interior palette of materials and finishes, along with key features like custom millwork, lighting and built-ins.

In upcoming haus WORKS posts, we'll take you inside real projects at each of these stages: the sketches, the site visits, the problem-solving and the reveal.