The Process of Designing Custom Luxury Homes

Designing custom luxury homes involves a detailed and collaborative process to create unique, high-end residences tailored to the client’s specific needs and desires. Throughout the entire process, clear communication, collaboration among the design team, and meticulous attention to detail are essential to achieving the desired outcome of a unique, luxurious residence that exceeds the client’s expectations. While every professional architectural firm has its own unique style and flair, most will follow the same basic processes to deliver a beautiful home design that fulfills customer aspirations.

CMSA Architects offers a comprehensive architectural process grounded in experience and excellence. Our designs can be seen along the Gulf Coast region of Florida, particularly in Sarasota and Venice. This article will discuss our process and how we work with clients to design custom luxury homes that exceed expectations.

Steps Involved in Designing Custom Luxury Homes

• Site Review and Zoning Considerations: The first task in any project is to understand and evaluate the attributes of the future homesite as they will affect the ultimate design. The site is visually reviewed to assess the following:
  • Geography and topography
  • Regional climate and weather patterns
  • Sun Angles and property orientation
  • Surrounding properties, access points, and views
  • Environmental considerations and impact

  The CMSA team will identify new or remodeling potential, as well as review applicable zoning laws and regulations. The team will evaluate existing and/or proposed zoning, lot coverage considerations, building height minimums and maximums, building setbacks, and required environmental and state permits.

  Once these variables are considered, we can proceed to the rendering process and provide a preliminary design.

• The Rendering Process: The preliminary design will include a proposed site plan, floor plan(s) and exterior renderings. This early presentation visually interprets the client’s stated goals and desires. Once reviewed and changed to reflect everyone’s vision, a contractor will review the design to provide the client with a preliminary cost estimate for construction. At this stage, interior designers and landscape architects are often brought into the process to achieve an accepted preliminary design.
• Team Selection: If the client does not have a contractor selected, CMSA will typically introduce the owner to 3 prospective contractors who are experienced and well-suited for the type of project in question. Once a decision is made regarding the contractor for the build, CMSA will work with the contractor and the owner to develop a more specific and detailed cost projection. Once approved, the construction documents will be drawn up.
• Finalization of Construction Documents & Permits: The construction documents will be initiated at this point. These drawings, which include architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical designs, are the specifications that the contractor will use to deliver a final cost and to apply for and obtain a building permit. If a state permit is necessary, CMSA will apply for these permits and act as the owner’s agent with The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).
• Complete Build Contract & Begin the Build: With a permit and final cost, CMSA will help review the bid and set up the contractor contract. The contractor will start the construction process, while CMSA works with the owner, interior designers, landscape architects, and other stakeholders to coordinate the shop drawings and ensure the work is installed per the design. Important Note: We recommend that the owner have a legal counsel review the contractor contract.

What Time Frame Can You Expect? The preliminary design and construction document stages will take approximately six months. The project’s size and complexity will determine the construction phase’s length.

Trust CMSA with Your Custom Home Design

Designing custom luxury homes and buildings is a complex and comprehensive process that results in uniquely artistic spaces. Who you trust with that project is incredibly important.

Established in 1992, CMSA Architects is a trusted architectural firm that has created a lasting legacy in Sarasota and Venice’s premier communities. If you are searching for a firm that has a stellar reputation for high-end, luxury residential and commercial design, call us today.