We’ve recently been contacted by new property owners of a (2.5) acre beautiful, minimal slope site in Niwot Colorado, with views of the Rockies.
Their request is for Architecture, Engineering and Consultant’s services for a new two story and finished basement luxury home of about 6,000 sq. ft. The architectural style contemplated will be a hi-end conservatively modern design, with highlights of organic materials, large expansive windows, passive solar qualities and responses to sustainable design standards.
They have wisely requested Pre-Project Architect Consultation Services before formalizing a more precise scope of work. A schematic floor plan design, land survey, topography plan, preliminary palette of finish materials, site plan design with building orientation/access considerations, timing projections for plans and preliminary construction cost range estimates, will start some of the process.
Estimated construction budget at todays rates is $4,000,000-$5,000,000 plus site work and soft costs. This works with their astute research before purchasing the property, realtive to their develoipment aspirations.
Adjunct considerations will be inclusive of: optimizing building foot print location; drainage; soil conditions; sun exposure directions; wind patterns; climate zone snowfall; views regarding full privacy and semi-private spaces relating to the outdoor design elements; trees/vegetation/creek/rock features to work around/with; utilities to be provided to the home; zoning and planning regulations regarding height, setbacks and other requirements; building energy efficiency; water conservation; use of sustainable materials; client lifestyle needs currently and in the future; detached buildings and recreation areas that function with the home; accessibility and regulation of vehicles, people and animals; etc.
Next step after meetings and refining the above parameters, is to produce architectural plans of: exterior elevations, a section and a roof plan. We can then provide a 3D color rendering which will be an exciting part of the process and provide a formidable visualization of their new home. From this set of design documents a category construction cost estimate with detailing can be provided, for substantial design vs cost project analysis. After this process, the designs can be refined as needed and then sent to the engineer for their initial start of structural work.
Let us know what new home project you are planning and we could possibly provide you with a Pre-Project Consultation as well.
Best Always!
Barry R. Shaw AIA, GC
BSA Inc. Design & Construction
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