A Guide to Our Design Process
Research
Discovery
We begin each project with a focused consultation and review to understand you and your goals. Together, we then define priorities and clarify how we can help at each step. These conversations set the tone for our collaboration.
Proposal
Revolve will share a Proposal and Scope of Work that explains the project and estimated design fees. Once you’re ready to move forward, we’ll sign the contract and collect a design retainer.
Documentation
If your project involves an existing building, we usually begin by making measured base drawings for documentation and renovation. These use on-site measurements, photographs, hand sketches, and scaled drawings.
Reimagine
Site Design & Analysis
One of the first steps in design is choosing the right site and making the most of it based on your goals. We look at the building’s location, landscape, parking, and how everything fits with neighbors and the environment. By thinking about views, sunlight, privacy, land slope, and other site features, we can shape the quality and use of your interior spaces and add value to your building. At this stage, we talk with you about how to use your whole site to get the most benefit. We also work with your Civil Engineer to plan water management and paving.
Depending on where your project is, you might need public reviews, presentations, or special approvals before starting. Rules about building setbacks, parking, and land use may also need to be approved. We gather the needed information and create drawings for presentations. We can represent you or help you at public meetings. If your property is historic, we research its history. For projects in cities, we look at the surrounding area, since it affects the design.
Design Development
Design Development transforms the concept into a detailed vision. We guide you in selecting materials that are attractive, durable, and within your budget.
Once everyone agrees on the Schematic Design drawings, the team works together to improve the design. This includes updating floor plans to comply with building rules, preparing cross-section drawings, and creating detailed plans and interior views.
At this stage, we incorporate structural engineering and plan mechanical system routes and layouts for lighting and power outlets. For larger or complex projects, we engage engineering consultants to design building systems. In most residential projects, subcontractors manage heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical work.
Schematic Design
We start this phase by discussing your lifestyle, current goals, and long-term needs, such as resale, comfort, and accessibility. Using your preferences and design requirements, we develop custom floor plans and elevations to match your desired level of customization. Our team draws on extensive experience to benefit your project. We then create a conceptual design using two-dimensional and three-dimensional sketches, addressing your programming needs and initial Code requirements.
Interior Design & Finishes
Interior design shapes how a space feels and affects the mood of everyone who uses it. Our goal is to create a beautiful and healthy environment for you. We offer services tailored to your interior design needs. First, we help you select general materials for floors, walls, and ceilings. Then we work together to select specific finishes for these areas. We can also help you choose lighting, fixtures, furnishings, wall art, and accessories that match your overall design.
Construction/Permit Drawings
Once you approve your selections and design details, the architect will prepare stamped and signed drawings for permit review and construction. The architect will also work with you and the builder to address any unique aspects of your project.
The construction documents will cover all the details needed for your project. This includes building and wall sections, finish and door schedules, title and index sheets, final graphics, detailed plans, elevations of important areas, notes, exact measurements, and, if needed, interior elevations. The architect will also coordinate with all building consultants, whether part of the team or hired separately. The General Contractor will use these drawings to build your project, and they also serve as an “exhibit” in your legal agreement with the Contractor, ensuring your building is constructed as intended.
Realization
Bidding & Negotiation
If you do not already have a contractor, we can help you find one and gather competitive bids or proposals. We will review the bids together and, if needed, negotiate the price or project details with the chosen contractor before signing the contract.
Construction Administration
During construction administration, we serve as the owner's representative, overseeing the project to ensure compliance with design and quality standards. This includes site visits and review of contractor submittals, such as shop drawings for doors, windows, insulation, concrete, wood, and paint. Without this oversight, contractors or suppliers may make unauthorized changes that affect quality, durability, structural integrity, or cause leaks, rot, or higher utility costs. Having a consultant on site protects your interests throughout construction. We observe construction, confirm alignment with design intent, and participate in regular contractor meetings. For new construction, we recommend at least five site visits: at project start to meet contractors and address questions; when foundations are ready or being poured; when rough framing is nearly complete; after mechanical & electrical installation but before drywall; and near completion to prepare a punch list. We are available to address concerns throughout the project.