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When taking on a major home remodel or new construction, the complexity can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. What we often associate as 'construction problems' can sometimes be attributed to poor planning and information management problems. Let's start with the poor planning piece.
A structured programmatic approach ensures that each step of your project is thoughtfully planned and executed because you built a team with a plan in the first place and manage your project effectively from the ground up.
Steps to a Programmatic Approach
1. Feasibility Assessment: Begin by assessing whether your project goals are realistic. This involves evaluating the potential footprint against the recorded lot and zoning limitations, desired features, style, and of course, a budget that is realistic and detailed with all needed cost categories necessary to complete your project. This foundational step sets the tone for all decisions that follow.
2. Civil Work and Architectural Concepting: Next, focus on the positioning of your lot and develop floor plans, massing, and elevations. It's essential to ensure that the design of your home harmonizes with the surrounding environment, setting the stage for detailed planning.
3. Navigating Regulatory Requirements: Before proceeding further, understand that specific areas, like those with homeowners associations, hillsides, or architectural control committees, may require additional approvals. Securing these approvals early can prevent costly delays and ensure that your project adheres to all local regulations.
4. Detailing Phase: With architectural approvals in hand, delve into the specifics of architectural details, interior design, engineering, and landscaping. This phase is about refining your vision into detailed, actionable plans that address both form, fit, and functionality.
5. Construction Drawings and Approvals: Finally, transform your detailed plans into construction-ready drawings. These are crucial for precise building and obtaining the necessary permits from local authorities. This step ensures your project is ready for execution and meets all regulatory standards, while serving as a playbook for your builder. Included in this should be interior design and landscape/hardscape specifications that tie to the architectural plans.
Why a Programmatic Approach Matters
Adopting a programmatic approach to your home-building or remodeling project helps in structuring the process into manageable phases each with specific objectives and outcomes. This methodical planning reduces the risk of unforeseen issues and ensures that your project progresses smoothly, adhering to both your vision and legal requirements.
Bringing it Home
Through careful planning and a step-by-step approach you can navigate the complexities of home construction or remodeling with confidence. By addressing feasibility, design, regulatory requirements, detailed planning, and final approvals in a sequential manner, you ensure that each aspect of your home is thoughtfully considered and well-executed. Remember, the success of your project hinges not just on the design and construction roles but also on proactive management of how they come together and align around the details that will make your project your home.
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