Our Process
The Process
Trust the Experience
1. Design Consultation Service (Field Visit)
During the consultation, we review your project ideas, identify potential challenges, and outline the inspection and approval requirements before design work begins. With our experience, based on the property information and conditions visible during the consultation, we identify potential zoning, HVAC, engineering, civil grading, septic and agency requirements. Final requirements are determined by the municipality and other applicable authorities and may change as the project is reviewed.
Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, confident, and aligned with the project direction before moving forward.
2. Measurements
Our team will visit your property to complete a detailed site measurement. We use iGUIDE, a laser-scanning and imaging system that captures accurate dimensions throughout your home. This technology allows us to generate precise floor plans, which form the foundation for your construction drawings.
During the site visit, we also document existing windows, doors, and structural elements to ensure all relevant conditions are accurately reflected in the final design.
We have also introduced the Moasure 2 to help our team with grade changes to account for walk-out basements, window heights, additions that may change in height, etc. to help our drawings stand out and be more accurate.
3. Design Concept Phase
The design concept stage is where your project truly takes shape.During the concept phase, we prepare preliminary plans and design options and work closely with the client to refine the project. Unlimited revisions are included within the original scope during this phase. Once the concept is approved, we proceed into structural coordination and preparation of the permit drawings. We offer unlimited revisions within the original scope of work, ensuring the final design fully reflects your vision.
4. Structural Drawing Phase
During the structural drawing phase, we develop and coordinate structural components within the agreed scope and our registered qualifications. Where conditions fall outside Part 9 or require professional engineering, an independent licensed professional engineer will be engaged.
During this stage, our team carefully reviews and sizes all structural components, including joists, studs, roof framing, beams, and columns, to support the proposed design and prevent future issues.
Using detailed 3D modeling, we coordinate all structural elements and verify that point loads are properly transferred to the foundation. We also produce project-specific construction details, including wall sections and building sections, to clearly communicate structural intent and support efficient construction.
5. Co-ordinate Sub-Trades
Municipal requirements for permit submissions vary, and in some cases, a project may exceed Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code, requiring the involvement of a structural engineer.We identify foreseeable consultant requirements based on the information available. Municipalities and other authorities may request additional consultants, drawings, studies or approvals during their review. Where requested, we can coordinate structural engineering, HVAC, civil grading, septic, truss and floor design services. Additional services are quoted separately unless specifically included.
Our team coordinates all required consultants, including structural engineering, HVAC design, civil grading, septic design, and any additional services your project may require. We also manage engineered truss and floor framing, coordinating designs through multiple local suppliers to ensure efficient and well-integrated solutions.
Engineered floor and truss systems often allow for faster installation and improved performance compared to conventional framing, helping streamline the construction process.
6. Permit Process
Where included in our proposal, we submit the building permit application as the owner’s authorized agent and communicate with the municipal building department during its review. We respond to comments relating to our drawings and coordinate additional information where authorized by the client.
Municipal review periods depend on the application type, whether the application is complete and the requirements of the applicable authority. Planning, conservation, MTO, minor variance and other approvals operate under separate processes and can significantly extend the overall project timeline.
7. Building
Once permits have been issued, the owner may proceed with contractor selection and construction. We can answer drawing-related questions and provide additional construction support where included in our agreement. Contractor referrals, site coordination, construction administration and project-management services are separate services and must be authorized in writing.
