Our Custom Home Design Process

Concept Sketches: During this first phase, we will work with the building owner to develop a building concept and sketch.  This initial drawing will help to plan dimensions, structural framing and constructability.

Pre-Design:  During the pre-design phase, sometimes identified as the “schematic design phase,” we will consider the possible building design problems, existing conditions, site issues, planning issues, etc.  We will attempt to gather information about the potential project and identify any possible road blocks.  This will ensure a smooth delivery of our next steps, design development and construction documents.

Design Development: At this phase, the project begins to take shape. Structural systems are finalized, mechanical requirements are defined, façade and interior elements are specified, and we are on our way to construction documents. We have now identified potential construction costs and material specifications for the owner (client) and estimators to evaluate.

Construction Documents: At this phase, we are ready to present our client with working, permit-ready drawings.  This phase represents 75% completion of the total project.  Technical specifications are finalized in this phase, and we, as prime consultants to the building owner, present our customized solution.

Construction Administration: During this final phase, we can assist the building owner in executing our final custom home plans. We can perform the due diligence necessary to select the appropriate contractor for completion of the work.  We can also perform weekly building inspections to ensure that the structure is being constructed per our specifications.

Our special features help you visualize your custom construction home design. Our design team will work with you to create the plans for your customized home with special features that fit your lifestyle.

We will provide our custom home design clients with

• Working drawings
• Elevations
• Cross sections
• 3D rendering of your home
• Optional, additional service: Itemized list of all construction materials. The material list can be used to provide an opinion of probable construction cost and construction schedule.

Quality Control of New House Construction

A periodic residential construction inspection can be provided to insure your home is constructed to the highest standard and according to the plans and specifications.

New Construction Pre-Planning Services

Civil Engineering: Site Development requires strategic coordination of many regulatory and non-regulatory interests. During this process, issues such as suitability for the intended use, integration with existing site features and impact on the environment need to be considered. Whether you are planning a single family residence or a development, we are prepared to assist you with the planning and implementation of your project in a manner that will minimize overall cost, development time and environmental impact, while maximizing the potential of your property.

Geotechnical Engineering: What is under a piece of property can be as important as what is on the surface. Geotechnical engineering characterizes the properties of earth materials and predicts the reaction to loading conditions.

Material Selection with an Energy Efficient Approach

Whole House Systems Approach: Designing and constructing an energy-efficient house requires careful planning and attention to details. A whole-house systems approach can help develop a successful strategy for incorporating energy efficiency into your home’s custom building design. A whole-house systems approach considers the interaction between you, your building site, your climate, and these other elements or components of your home:

• Appliances and home electronics
• Insulation and air sealing
• Lighting and day lighting
• Space heating and cooling
• Water heating
• Windows, Doors, and Skylights
• Foundation Design

Using the whole-house systems approach, BE Structural, PC recognizes that the features of one component in a house can greatly affect other components, which ultimately affects the overall energy efficiency of the house.

These are some of the benefits of using a whole-house systems approach:

• Reduced utility and maintenance costs
• Increased comfort
• Reduced noise
• Healthier and safer indoor environment
• Improved building durability

You can use the whole-house systems approach with any home design. Using this approach, you also might consider the benefits of designing a home that generates its own electricity.