The Design Process

Written By Patrick Sughrue

Schematic Design Process

1 Intake
Submit intake sheet information. this will give us information for your custom schematic design.

2. Concept Review
We begin by reviewing your initial sketches and general ideas. Clarify the intended size, shape, and number of stories.

3. Design Style
Determine the architectural style—modern, traditional, or other. This will guide aesthetic and structural decisions.

4. Construction Method
Select preferred construction systems such as SIPs, ICFs, or Post-Frame. These choices impact cost, energy performance, and build time.

5. Discuss Exterior Finishes
Develop elevation views to define the exterior appearance and massing of the building.

6. Schematic Design Package
Receive a 3–6-page drawing set that integrates all design elements, including plan views, elevations, and basic construction details. (Resources)

Section 2: Budget Evaluation

7. Preliminary Cost Estimate
Use the schematic drawings to estimate project costs. Refer to the downloadable 200 item project budget sheet

8. Budget Alignment
If the design fits your budget, proceed to Construction Drawings (CDs). If not, revise size, shape, or revise finishes accordingly.

Section 3: Construction Drawings

9. Permit Set Preparation
Develop full Construction Drawings (also called working drawings or permit set) with detailed information beyond the schematic design.

10. Architectural Drawings Include:

  • Cover page with zoning and design parameters (wind speed, snow load, frost depth for your exact site)

  • Floor plans for all levels

  • Elevation views and building sections

  • Foundation plan, floor framing plans, roof framing plans

  • Construction details

Section 4: Supporting Documents

11. Shop Drawings
Include manufacturer-provided drawings and details for SIP or ICF systems.

12. Engineering Documents
Provide structural calculations and drawings, typically included with SIP orders. Site specific engineering may also be needed.

13. Site Plan
A detailed plot plan as required by the local building department.

Patrick Sughrue

Patrick Sughrue has been involved with Energy Efficiency building since 1980 when he installed renewable energy products including Passive solar, thermal Solar and biomass furnaces. Sughrue was also a prime contractor on The Hood River Conservation Project (HRCP) was a major residential conservation project, intended to test the upper limits of a utility retrofit program. It was proposed by the Natural Resources Defense Council, funded by the Bonneville Power Administration (Bonneville) and operated by Pacific Power & Light Company (Pacific) in Hood River, Oregon. Homes were retrofitted with R-38 floors, R-48 Ceilings, Heat recovery ventilation and night setback thermostats.

Sughrue has worked on both sides of the energy equation. Energy efficient building envelopes, (now called High Performance Envelopes)as well as the efficient use of renewables including solar thermal wind, Solar PV, and geothermal heat pumps.

I am here to help you with your project.

https://ArtisanSIPplans.com
Previous

Why SIPs and ICF
Next

SIPs and Post Frame