What to expect
All projects will progress through steps 1, 2, 3 and 5 detailed below. Construction projects also typically include steps 4, 6 and 7.
1
Initiation
Establish scope of work
Most projects begin with a telephone conversation, followed by an initial client-designer meeting at the project location. Every project, and every client, is unique. You may have a strong idea of your goals and direction; equally, you may have only a vague sense of what outcomes are possible and wish for significant guidance and advice. During this phase we establish a clear and comprehensive description of the scope of work. Practical, functional and aesthetic requirements and preferences will all be considered.
2
Develop designs and concepts
Conceptual design phase
For Whole-House and structural projects, this phase will initially focus on layouts, architectural drawings and sketches. Floor plans, elevations, sections, and 3-d views will be utilized where helpful or necessary. Simultaneous conversations will consider budget realities and aesthetic goals. Our clients are typically involved during the development of ideas and concepts, to whatever extent they are most comfortable. Multiple layouts and options are typically presented during each step of this phase.
For interior design projects, this phase will focus more heavily on materials, fixtures, fittings and finishes, with additional support from applicable drawings and renderings. These clients are also usually involved during the development of ideas and concepts, and multiple options are typically presented.
Engineering, technical, trades and crafts
3
Consultation with specialists
In order to develop the conceptual designs and establish more precise aesthetic and budgetary feasibilities, it is often typical for us to reach out to specialists for their expert advice and input at this stage. For whole house projects, for instance, we will include our structural engineer and have discussions with suppliers of various building materials and finish items. By contrast, kitchen and bath interior design projects will benefit from discussions with cabinet-makers, stone suppliers and tile showrooms before finalizing designs.
4
Planning approval process
"Findings", Exceptions & Variances
5
Design finalization & Purchasing
Plans, drawings, specifications
We produce plans, drawings, details, specifications and purchasing lists covering the full scope of the project. The documents produced during this phase contain all information required to implement the design, for use by builders, sub-contractors, installers and for ourselves during purchasing and acquisitions.
6
Building permit application process
Plans, drawings, specifications
For projects requiring a permit, we produce the application plans and documents required by your local planning and/or building departments. We have the expertise to navigate this process on your behalf.
When required, Hyndman Studio uses the "Findings" process to obtain planning approval when a project requires an Exception for non-conforming structures or a Variance for exceptions to existing zoning law.
Each town and city has a set of planning rules and regulations, based on broadly universal fundamentals, but with slight differences defined by their local municipal code. An understanding of the process is essential in obtaining the most favorable possible outcome.
7
Construction interface
Some degree of designer interface is typically required during a construction project, although the extent will be dictated by the scope, scale and the complexity of the project. In our experience, the more technically complex designs will require a higher level of designer interaction during construction. We are available for this service during construction.