Working with Hearthstone Design Studio

 A design process in architecture refers to a structured, multi-step approach that designers take to translate a client's needs and site conditions into a fully developed building design, typically involving phases like pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, permitting, bidding, and construction administration, where each stage refines the design further until it's ready for construction.  

 A design process in architecture refers to a structured, multi-step approach that designers take to translate a client's needs and site conditions into a fully developed building design, typically involving phases like pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, permitting, bidding, and construction administration, where each stage refines the design further until it's ready for construction.  

 An estimate will be created for the construction of each potential concept. Once you choose which avenue to pursue we begin the design development stage refining the chosen concept, specifying materials, detailing components, and producing more detailed drawings to estimate costs and address potential issues. This is one of the most enjoyable stages as a client where you see the design take shape. We create a "Class C" estimate for your design and if you wish to build with us we move on to Permit and construction drawings.  

 Construction permitting is the process of obtaining official authorization to start construction or renovate a building. It's also known as a building permit. 

 Although it is a common misconception that you require construction documents to apply for a permit, This is untrue. These phases are very different. With Hearthstone Design Studio we create a permitting package separate from the Construction documents. These are detailed enough to Process permits without details which could cause confusion. 

Once we receive permitting approval we begin the complete design process. Our team finishes detailing the construction drawings and Schedules for the approved design. The drawings are submitted to the client as complete work without having to re-draft details during the permitting process. 

 Construction administration is the management of the administrative tasks involved in a construction project. It includes overseeing budgets, schedules, and communications. Construction administration can take place during the preconstruction and construction phases of a project.  

Tasks included in Construction Administration:

• Budget management: Monitoring expenditures to ensure the project stays within budget
• Contract management: Overseeing and executing the construction contract
• Risk management: Identifying potential risks and developing strategies to reduce their impact
• Schedule coordination: Coordinating schedules for the project
• Client communication: Communicating with clients and subcontractors
• Employee supervision: Supervising employees
• Subcontract management: Creating and processing subcontracts
• Purchase order management: Creating purchase orders