FAQ

Architectural fees are typically calculated as a percentage of construction cost, ranging from 8% to 15% depending on project complexity, scope of services, and building type. For a custom home with a $1 million construction budget, architectural fees would typically fall between $80,000 and $150,000. We also offer fixed-fee and hourly arrangements for smaller projects. During our initial consultation, we provide a detailed fee proposal based on your specific project.

The timeline depends on project size and complexity. A typical custom home takes 6 to 10 months from first meeting through completed construction documents. Commercial projects may take 8 to 14 months. Add construction time — typically 10 to 18 months for residential and 12 to 24 months for commercial — and the full timeline from first conversation to move-in is usually 18 to 30 months. We provide a detailed project schedule during the programming phase.

Yes. We prepare and submit all permit applications, respond to plan review comments, and coordinate with building departments on your behalf. Our familiarity with Denver, Boulder, and other Colorado jurisdictions helps projects move through review efficiently. Permit review timelines vary by jurisdiction — typically 4 to 8 weeks for residential and 6 to 12 weeks for commercial — and we factor these into the overall project schedule.

Absolutely. Budget is a design constraint that we take seriously from day one. During programming, we discuss your budget range and develop a project scope that aligns with it. We provide cost estimates at each design phase and work with cost estimators or contractors to validate projections. If costs exceed the budget, we identify alternatives and value engineering opportunities rather than simply cutting features.

Yes. Our interior design services include space planning, material and finish selection, custom millwork design, lighting design, and furniture specification. For projects where we also design the building, interior design is a natural extension of the architectural process. We also take on standalone interior projects for clients who want to transform an existing space.

Sustainability is integrated into every project we design. Our team includes a LEED Accredited Professional and a Certified Passive House Consultant. We have completed projects certified under LEED (Silver through Platinum), Passive House (PHIUS), and the WELL Building Standard. Even when clients do not pursue formal certification, we apply the same energy-efficient strategies — passive solar design, high-performance envelopes, and efficient mechanical systems — as standard practice.

Yes. While our office is in Denver, we regularly design projects across Colorado, including Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, Aspen, and mountain communities throughout the state. For remote project sites, we use a combination of site visits, drone surveys, and 3D scanning to document existing conditions. We also coordinate with local contractors and consultants who understand regional construction practices.

Come with a general sense of your goals, budget range, and timeline. If you have inspiration images, a Pinterest board, or examples of buildings you admire, bring those along — they help us understand your aesthetic preferences quickly. For renovation projects, bring any existing drawings or surveys you have. For new construction, bring a site survey if available. If you do not have any of these, that is fine — we will guide you through the information-gathering process.