Frequently asked questions
Do you have questions about designing your home or cottage? Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Sustainable choices sometimes have higher upfront costs, but they often lead to lower operating costs over time through reduced energy use and maintenance. We help find a balance that fits your goals, budget, and long-term plans.
Sustainable design focuses on creating spaces that are energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and built to last. Net Zero homes go a step further: they are designed to produce as much energy as they consume over the course of a year, through strategies like better insulation, high-performance windows, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy sources like solar panels.
Designing for aging in place means creating a home that can adapt to your needs over time. This might include minimizing stairs, planning for accessible bathrooms, optimizing lighting, and creating flexible spaces that can change with you as life evolves.
Accessibility-focused design creates spaces that are safer, easier, and more comfortable for everyone—regardless of age, mobility, or ability. It means planning for things like barrier-free entrances, wider hallways, thoughtful layouts, and adaptable features that allow people to live independently longer and more comfortably.
Yes—we’re happy to work remotely when appropriate, especially for planning, conceptual design, and consultation.
We offer flexible, à la carte services—from early planning and renderings to full construction drawings. During our discovery call, we’ll help determine what level of support fits best.
Timelines vary depending on the complexity and scope of your project. After our discovery meeting, we’ll provide a clear estimate as part of your proposal.
Yes, if your project requires a permit, we’ll develop and submit the necessary code-compliant drawings to your municipality.
Absolutely. We’re happy to work with your chosen contractor—or, if you haven’t selected one yet, we can recommend trusted professionals from our network.
We work on a wide range of residential projects including renovations, additions, new builds, accessibility upgrades, and Net Zero-ready homes. Every project is custom-scoped based on your needs.
We offer a discovery meeting to learn more about your project and see if we’re the right fit. There’s no charge for this initial conversation.
A floor plan shows the layout from above—walls, windows, doors, and furniture. A rendering gives a more lifelike view of what the space will actually look like, often in 3D, with finishes, lighting, and materials included.
Not at all. Design is about making the most of your space—no matter the size or budget. Thoughtful planning can actually help save money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes or changes mid-project.
You don’t need to know your style before we begin. Part of our job is helping you uncover what you’re drawn to, what supports your lifestyle, and what feels like “you”—then translating that into a cohesive design.
A good designer ensures that the space not only meets technical needs, but also supports how you live day to day. We plan for flow, proportion, light, and comfort—details that are often overlooked when design isn’t part of the process from the start.
An architectural designer creates the overall layout, flow, and feel of a space—making sure it functions well, looks beautiful, and meets all code and building requirements. We translate ideas into clear plans that builders and trades can follow with confidence.