Architectural Consultation Services in Asheville, NC

Assembly’s design build process approach is best understood as a seven step process. Creating an exceptional home is a journey and by breaking the journey into a set of achievable goals we make something that could feel overwhelming simple, fun, and affordable. It’s kind of like summiting a mountain – it’s a seemingly impossible task which happens one step at a time.

Step 1

Land Ownership

Typically when a customer calls us to understand more about our process they already own a lot and are ready to begin designing their dream home. Occasionally, we are contacted before land ownership and we are happy to assist in finding a lot and accessing buildability. Lots can be complicated and we enjoy the process of discussing the pros and cons of any piece of land you might be considering. If you already own a lot, that’s fantastic! We can start by setting up a site visit to identify build sites for your future home.

Step 2

Initial Meeting

Once you’ve closed on a lot, we set up an initial design meeting. During this meeting we’ll discuss in detail our process, what to expect in terms of cost and timeline, and gather information about your dreams for the house. We’ll also gather inspiration images you might have and identify your budget. Based on the information gathered during this initial design meeting, we’ll put together a Design Build Contract for all phases of the work.

Step 3

Contract

The contract is broken up into two major phases – the design phase and the build phase. As we draft the contract, we’ll discuss in detail how the two phases are structured, how long they will take, and what to expect. We’ll send you the contract and allow plenty of time for review, to make comments, and finalize.

Step 4

Home Design and Permitting Process

Once the contract is signed, we’ll begin the design process. This is when the fun begins! We’ll work closely with you to design a perfect home. We are familiar with all the latest trends in materials and systems as well as passive cooling and heating technologies. We’ll carefully site the house for privacy and ease of access and we’ll locate the rooms based on your needs and desire for views and sun. Our goal is to design a house that exceeds your expectations!

Step 5

Finalized Estimate and Financing

Once the house is designed and the permits are issued we’ll provide you with a detailed estimate for building the project. The detailed estimate will be within 1-5% of our initial quote so there will be no surprises! Our project estimates are totally transparent so that you understand exactly how each dollar is spent. Once the estimate is finalized we can begin construction. If you need help with bank financing, no problem. We’ll walk you through the steps and can put you in touch with lenders we use often.

Step 6

Construction

The construction phase is always the most fun as you start to see your dream materialize. We also love this part of the project and pride ourselves on careful craftsmanship and excellent subs. Our team loves to build and that love is poured into the smallest details of your home. Depending on the scope of your project, the build phase will take anywhere from 4-18 months. Typically, for an average size home, you can expect the build time to be about 9-12 months.

Step 7

Move-In

From our initial meeting and set of plans to a finished house that is specifically tailored to your needs, you can now move into your dream home! Our relationship doesn’t stop here! You’ll be living in an up-to-date home with all the modern luxuries one might expect. We’ll be available to answer any questions and help with making the home operate at its full potential!

The tools for architectural consultation services in Asheville, NC

Architect Led Design Building Explained

The standard process

The standard process for delivering projects is problematic because it creates a legal wall between the architect and contractor that makes communication difficult, decisions expensive and puts additional burden on the Owner.

The Architect Led Design Build process

In the Architect Led Design Build process the legal wall between contractor and architect no longer exists allowing the Owner to have a single point of contact and a more cost effective and time efficient project.

THE DESIGN BUILD BENEFITS

Owner benefits:

Faster Delivery — combined project management means work is completed faster with fewer problems. There is less opportunity for miscommunication because one office handles all aspects of the process.
Cost Savings — an integrated team is geared toward efficiency and innovation. There are no charges during the project for additional communication between the builder and architect.
Better Quality — design-builders meet performance needs, not minimum design requirements, often developing innovations to deliver a better project than initially imagined.
Singular Responsibility — one entity is held accountable for design, cost, schedule and performance. Clients love this part of the design/build process because it is clear and simple!
Decreased Administrative Burden — owners can focus on the project rather than managing disparate contracts and communication between the designer and builder. With less administration happening between various professional offices more time can be spent producing an amazing final product.
Reduced Risk for Owner — the design-build team assumes additional risk, which protects the owner from a complicated litigation process.