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We are a full service design-build contractor serving Duluth MN, Superior WI, and the surrounding area. With design-build, our clients enjoy the convenience of working with one entity from start to finish with single source accountability for the entire project. We have an experienced and creative team and our portfolio covers a myriad of architectural styles. Our goal is to create exceptional, one-of-a-kind, designs tailored to the needs and lifestyle of each of our clients.
Four Step Design Process
- Interview
- Site Visit
- Concept Plan
- Working Drawings
Step 1 - Interview
During the interview we discuss the scope of the project to understand our client’s needs, desires, and requirements for the home. Together with the client we fill out a design questionnaire outlining parameters for rooms and design. It is encouraged that the clients bring to this meeting any and all information that will prove necessary and helpful during the design phase of the project.
What to bring
- A topographical site survey showing the lot dimension, elevations and setbacks.
- A “wish list” of written notes describing ideas for the home.
- Sketches and photographs.
- Brochures, magazine cutouts, etc.
Step 2 - Site Visit
We make a visit to the site to get a feel for the natural surroundings and a sense for the lay of the land. Important views are noted along with landmarks, grades, elevations and areas to place the home and other structures. We also find the location of utilities on or nearest to the site.
Step 3 - Concept Plan
The concept or preliminary plan begins with the information gathered from the interview and site visit. Our design team drafts preliminary schematic drawings of floor plans and elevations. The drafts are reviewed with the client and necessary revisions are made. This step is usually repeated several times. Once the client is satisfied with the layout, we produce a set of preliminary drawings.
A typical set of preliminary drawings include:
- Floor plans
- Exterior elevations
- Roof plan & wall sections
Cost estimating is very important at this stage of the design process. We calculate a general estimate of construction costs based on the preliminary drawings to ensure the costs are within the client's budget guidelines before proceeding with the final plans.
Step 4 - Working Drawings
With the concept plan completed and approved by the client, we then finalize the design. During this phase we go over in detail the final finishes for interior, exterior and product selections. We consult with structural engineers and refine preliminary drawings into a finished set of “blueprints” ready for the permit office.
When the design process is complete and we have a finished set of plans, we provide our client with a detailed estimate of construction costs. For more information about our estimating process, visit our Building Process page.
Design Fee Schedule
Design Questionairre (PDF)
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