About Engineered Plans
what to expect
Our clients find the design process exciting, challenging, and detailed. EngineeredPlans follows a clear design process developed through years of experience. Most importantly, our approach is flexible and guided by our clients’ needs. Every project is different, and so is the process used to achieve the final design.
The process outlined on this page provides a general overview of what to expect once you begin working with EngineeredPlans.
Complimentary First Meeting
In our complimentary initial meeting, we will discuss your project goals and budget. Following this, we will provide a fee proposal for your review. Once approved, we will exchange signed copies, receive your deposit, and begin work.
The first step is usually a site visit to measure your home and document the existing space. These drawings are referred to as “as-builts.”
Discussing your design
We will then hold a second meeting to review your design needs in more detail, using the as-built drawings prepared from our measurements.
Based on this discussion, we will develop a range of design options for your review. Where there are different ways to meet your goals, we will present each option clearly.
These options will be hand-sketched and drawn to the same scale as the as-built drawings, so you can easily understand the proposed changes.
After you have reviewed the options, we will meet again to refine the design. This often includes combining elements from different options to create a preliminary design.
3D modeling & Rendering
If you find it difficult to visualize your design using standard 2D drawings (floor plans and elevations), we also offer 3D modeling and rendering services. We can create a detailed 3D model using Revit or SketchUp to help you better understand your project from both the interior and exterior.
Photo-realistic renderings allow you to see the scale, natural light, and material choices before construction begins.
Applying for a building permit
Once any zoning matters have been addressed, we will prepare a “permit set.” We develop all architectural, structural, and MEP drawings in-house. These drawings are used to obtain a building permit and to receive pricing from builders.
In addition to the drawings prepared for zoning review, the permit set will include cross-sections, detailed drawings, material specifications, and key structural elements such as joists, beams, footings, and foundations.
When the drawings are complete, we will submit your building permit application. Once the permit is approved, construction can begin.