A key element that Sterling Custom Homes’ clients appreciate in the architectural process is the fact we save them thousands of dollars on their plans. Through a 4 stage custom home building process that Sterling has perfected over the last 20 years, our clients eagerly testify that our methods are thorough and efficient and render the results they desire from both a design and budgetary perspective.
The goal of Stage I is to produce a 1″:10′ Initial Sketch that illustrates the fundamental necessities and desires in the home. The first meeting with the builder and architect will be to determine basic information such as number of bedrooms and baths, location of study, game room, media room, etc. Also included in this initial discussion is design style, interior design features such as arches, niches, columns, moldings, and special pieces of furniture or art that require unique design considerations. The builder and architect also encourage the client to bring photographs, magazines and other information that will convey to them details and “must haves” for their home. Through this interaction we get a feel for each client’s unique lifestyle, allowing us to direct the design process towards a layout that will compliment their way of life.
This initial meeting usually includes walking the lot in order to establish home location relevant to the trees, topography, sun orientation and views. The Hill Country views are breathtaking and we want to ensure that the client captures the absolute best view while reducing the frustrations of a poorly placed home that renders the hot sun setting directly onto the back porch. Our experience with home orientation allows our clients to maximize outdoor entertaining for most months out of the year, which is an important feature in our climate. Outdoor living environments are as essential and are planned out in the initial design process as are the indoor living spaces.
Although the initial sketch is a very basic version of the client’s custom home, it is extremely effective in showing the floor plan and home orientation. This important first step in the design process provides us with a “first blush” layout that can be modified and improved to suit the client’s preferences and budgetary objectives. Upon approval of the initial sketch, we move into Stage II, the Preliminary Plan phase.
Stay tuned to this blog as we share the remaining stages in “The Evolution of Your Plan”.
