architectural Consultations
Before you move forward with design or construction—especially on waterfront property—you deserve to know exactly what you're working with.
Our Architectural Consultation is a paid, stand-alone service designed to determine a project's feasibility and answer your biggest questions early so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Whether you're navigating a complex home remodel, planning a thoughtful addition to your business, considering property improvements, or building from scratch, we provide clarity via thorough research, on-site evaluation, and expert recommendations.
Allow us to take a deep dive into your property and everything that might impact your project: zoning codes, setbacks, topography, soil conditions, historical records, environmental considerations, and more. Most homeowners have no idea where to begin collecting this information—and that’s exactly why this service exists.
This isn’t just a checklist. It’s an Architect-led, decision-ready package that empowers you to move forward with confidence—and helps you avoid costly missteps before committing to full design or construction.
01
Zoning Ordinances
We'll determine your municipality of jurisdiction and confirm applicable zoning & building codes. This prevents project delays from potential issues such as "non-conforming use" or "sideyard setback" infringements. If you have water frontage, we'll review shoreline and environmental restrictions.
03
Dimensions & Setbacks
We'll utilize the Geographic Information System (GIS) to gather maps, images and measurements. This aids in understanding boundaries and buildable area.
05
Soils & Topography
The terrain surrounding any project is important. We study the surface contours to plan for view corridors and access points. But, below the surface, the soils determine things like drainage, structural engineering for foundations, and even if explosives are necessary during excavation due to bedrock!
02
Flooding & Drainage
Understanding the potential for flooding via FEMA maps, and considering how water drains off a property is important–not only for safety, but also for proper construction and insurance planning. We've helped many clients avoid building in a risky location, or navigate a Letter of Map Amendment to bring buildable sites out of floodplains.
04
Property Records
Finding & studying historical property information–such as variances, permits & surveys–is insightful for project planning. Understanding a property's history can uncover potential costly components (such as a buried foundation from the 1930's) and it can be interesting to know about prior ownership, tax records, and market values!
06
Utilities
We'll reference mapping tools to gauge where utilities are routed underground, and look into records for the well & septic systems' installation & upkeep. To make informed decisions on alternative energy use, we'll chart the sun angles and prevailing winds.
We begin with research:
01
Observe Existing Conditions
The site visit often includes walking the property's terrain to grasp the lay of the land. If there are existing buildings, we'll evaluate the exterior & interior of them to note any areas of concern.
03
Present the Findings
We'll present the findings of our research in digital format–which we'll email to you afterwards. Often, we highlight the benefits & opportunities unique to your property, and make known overlooked items and potential red flags.
02
Listen to Your Goals
While we're with you on-site, we'll listen to your goals for the project and consider them alongside the research we've done and the conditions we're seeing. This will help in determining feasibility of the project's scope & budget.
04
Share Our Approach
We'll take a few minutes to tell you about our experience and design process. Within a day or two of the completed consultation, we'll share a summary that includes Chad's professional recommendations for your project.
Next, we'll visit, observe & advise:
Why does all of this matter?
Avoid Costly Surprises
like setback violations, hidden wetlands, or tricky soil conditions
Uncover Opportunities
to maximize views, natural light, and future design potential
Save Time
by starting with clarity instead of guesswork
Knowledge is Power
when considering purchasing a property, this process is invaluable
