Key Illustration

TRUST THE PROCESS

Matt’s core belief is that the custom homebuilding process or remodel should be accessible, enjoyable, and fun! Our system is a true partnership as we work together from concept through completing your unique home. So whether you visioned a project for years in advance and know what you want or find the thought of custom design overwhelming, Matt will work to understand your style and guide you to the perfect balance between aesthetics and function.

He digs into the why behind your wishes, wants, and needs and uses his expertise and years of experience to inspire new ideas while adding warmth and character to every space. The goal is that your vision becomes a reality, transforming your house into a great space.

 DOCUMENT PROJECT OBJECTIVES

• Goals- Functional & Aesthetic

• Scope

• Budget

• Schedule

CREATE THE WORK PLAN

• Define deliverables

• Define owner/user decision milestones

• If needed, establish regulatory agency approval(s) timeline

• Establish a cost model

SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME PLANNING

• Programming Confirm space and function

• As-Built/ Base Plans Assemble and organize existing site and context to create accurate knowns

• Design Options Block and stack diagrams for review and further development

• Discuss Pro’s and cons of the various solutions, discuss with the client

• Initial Development Interior and exterior material specifications, including room finishes, doors, etc.

• Initiate Consultants Civil, structural, and mechanical assessments of the site

• Develop Concepts Bridge technological strategy with materials

• Coordinate Conceptual project estimate(s) to test approved schemes as needed

THE DESIGN/BUILD MULTI-STEP PATH

• Consultation- Key Illustration will look at your project and begin to understand your ideas. We gather existing surveys and other documents related to the proposed building and the surrounding context. Matt has worked in a family-operated construction contracting business since he was old enough to swing a hammer and sweep up sawdust. You can ask questions and share your project vision.

• Design Agreement- After the initial meeting, a design agreement will be emailed for you to review, sign, and return, along with a down payment. Detailed estimates outline the project scope and fees.

• Photo and Laser Measuring of As-Built Conditions- A set of plans is only as good as the initial measurements; precision is imperative. Once the design agreement is signed, Matt Hodel will come to your property to laser measure and photograph the space in detail to develop a design solution that is realistic and accurate.

• Design Schematics- Several design solutions are created and discussed to determine which option best meets your goals.

• Conceptual Design Sign-Off- Once the plans are close to finalized, Matt will develop detailed noted and scaled plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, and 3D perspective details, with highly detailed scheduling accounting for accurate material take-offs concerning framing, fixtures, electrical items, casework, doors, walls, windows, and room finish schedules. Our objective is to have contractors and homeowners on the same page. This detail avoids the frustrating change order process, cost overruns, and project delays that can derail projects and absorb valuable budgets near your project's completion. At this point, it's good to interact with a few building contractors to procure bids.

• Contractor Selection- A good set of plans, specifications, and a 3D model, helps to procure competitive bids from several contractors. When liberal amounts of information about a project are documented and detailed, bids can help define the contractor of choice; Matt works with many excellent, competently skilled contractors that know how to deliver successful project outcomes. He can help you choose the right contractor for the job.

• Product Selection- With your plans finalized, Matt helps you select products that match your style and budget. Matt will work closely with your contracting team and suppliers, who are responsible for ordering materials and scheduling subcontractors.

• Finalization of the Construction Document Process- At this point in the process, it's pencils down in the design phase. At this moment, Matt bridges your dreams and sets them into reality, creating a comprehensive drawing package that contractors love. It's easy to understand the design intent, simple to price, and understood by the whole team.

• Contract Specifications- A detailed Construction Agreement is put together, outlining the minute details of the job. Once you sign the Construction Agreement, we move into the build or construction phase. Matt will write a simple specification set of deliverables outlining the levels of artistry, craft, and quality you expect.

• Subcontractor Walk Through- Allows multiple subcontractors for each trade walkthrough of your job site to set up a competitive bidding situation. A detailed set of construction documents allows for less guesswork, avoids price estimate padding, and provides a better overall price. An engineer may also visit at this time.

• Permitting- Plenty of time must be allowed to vet this process and secure permits. Typically building departments can take 4 to 6 weeks to review sets in some jurisdictions.

• Pre-Construction- Before we break ground, you and Matt will meet your Construction Manager and Project Supervisor. The daily routine and rules established for the crew.

• Construction Administration- By remaining available to your project supervisor during construction, we ensure the construction process is smooth. Site walks resolve issues of concern quickly, and the contracted crew leaves the site as free of debris as possible. Managing the execution of the design provides peace of mind that the final result aligns with envisioned in the design.

Design impacts all our lives in ways subtle and overt. Great design is more than just good aesthetics. 

1. Form follows function; they are one.

2. Empathy and focus.

3. Aim for simplicity and efficiency.

4. Great design is pleasing; it redefines itself rapidly and is as little design as possible.

5. Hierarchy, balance, and dominance are at the root of successful designs. 

6. Good building design will enhance the natural environment, not detract from it.

7. Strong, simple, elegant, refined and functional, lasting and responsible- is always the balance to achieve.