About
What makes us different?
We start with understanding your needs
- We want to understand how you use or plan to use the desired space.
- What are the daily routines?
- What do you wish about your current space?
- What are your intentions of this space in 5 or 10 years from now? (growing family, age-in-place, resale).
We value the importance of a project budget
- Many projects go over budget because construction cost wasn’t understood during the design phase.
- We discuss the target construction budget starting from the conceptual design phase. We keep this in mind as we further develop the design. Our experience can help determine how to create the most value out of the investment you intend to make in the project.
We are with you every step of the way
- We are dedicated to making sure our clients are happy with our services and the final product. If this is your first time with a project like this, we are happy to hold your hand through the process.
how we work (step-by-step)
Every project follows a structured process that guides the design from initial idea through construction. Below is an overview of the typical phases of a project.
1. free consultation
Contact us to discuss project goals and ideas.
2. Site Survey & Feasibility Study
Document existing conditions and review zoning constraints.
3. Conceptual Design
Explore multiple design ideas and iterations to achieve the project goals
4. final design
Refine the design, materials, and key architectural elements.
5. Contractor Selection
Assist with identifying and evaluating contractors.
6. DOcumentation
Prepare detailed drawings required for permit and construction.
7. construction
Provide support during construction and review progress on site.
8. completion!
Final walkthrough and project closeout. Congratulations on the completed project!
leadership
hiei rose - founding principal, ra, leed
Hiei Rose is a licensed Architect with over a decade of experience ranging from single-family home additions, to new commercial developments. His background includes work and collaborations with renowned firms including Perkins+Will, Studio Hillier, and Ford3 Architects.
He strives to build long-lasting partnerships, focusing on understanding the unique needs of each homeowner and all parties involved in making the project a success.
Outside the office, Hiei loves being a dad for two young boys, playing soccer, building furniture, and developing new board game concepts.
serving:
Washington
Hawaii
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
professional affiliations:
LEED Green Associate, USGBC
NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards)
Frequently Asked Questions
Every project is different, but our process is designed to keep things clear, collaborative, and well organized from concept through construction. Below are some of the most common questions we receive from clients about how we work.
Design Phase
What is your design process from concept to construction?
Our work typically moves through several phases. Each phase builds on the previous one, allowing us to refine the design while keeping budget, constructability, and client goals aligned.
How many design options will you typically provide?
During the early design phase we typically present 2–3 distinct design options. We then review them together and refine the direction based on your preferences and priorities.
Do you help with interior layout or just architecture?
We can design the full interior scope of the project if requested. We have clients that hire our services for the structure, and manage interiors on their own, and some that want us to provide the whole package of services inside and out. We are happy to work with you to determine the project’s needs.
Budget & Planning
Can you estimate construction costs early in the design phase?
As we develop the design, we work with project data from past projects, as well as consult our contractor partnerships to determine an early construction estimate for the intended project.
Working Together
Who will actually be working on my project (you or a team member)?
As the owner and principal architect, I remain directly involved in every project from start to finish. I serve as your primary point of contact and oversee all design decisions, documentation, and coordination throughout the process.
Permits & Documentation
Do you handle permit drawings and approvals?
Yes, we provide fully licensed and stamped drawings for permit approval. We can oversee the submission process as needed.
Contractor Selection
Do you help select or recommend contractors?
We are happy to help narrow down and suggest potential contractors that we believe will be right for the job. However, we believe it is most important that the client makes the final decision on who the contractor is.
Will you review contractor bids?
Yes, we know by experience that not all contractor bids are the same. Each bid will include and exclude items, they all have different processes in estimating projects. We can help dissect these bids and outline the benefits of each bid you have received.
During Construction
Do you visit the site during construction? How often?
Yes, we love being involved during the construction process. We want to make sure the design intent is being followed by the contractor and we are available for any questions that may arise in the building process.
How do you handle construction issues or changes?
Construction projects inevitably involve adjustments and unforeseen conditions. It is our job as your architect to ensure a smooth and stress free process for you as the client. We are your liaison to the contractor and to any members involved in the project.
how we work (step-by-step)
1. free consultation
Contact us for a complimentary consultation to discuss project ideas, budget, property features, and desired feel for the overall project.
2. Site Survey & Feasibility Study
- Collect accurate measurements of the property, to develop a baseline of the project and understand all existing parameters.
- Complete 3D model, interior LiDar scan, and floor plans of existing conditions.
- Zoning analysis and confirmation of initial design intent.
- Set project budget and develop a rough construction estimate range.
3. Conceptual Design
- Utilize 2D and 3D renderings to present multiple design options.
- Discuss concepts with clients and implement feedback into each design iteration.
- Budget check
- Preliminary pricing
- Design approval
4. final design
Generate a package of drawings with enough information for a contractor to provide a refined construction estimate.
5. Contractor Selection
We will assist you through the process of selecting an appropriate contractor for the project.
6. Permits / Construction Drawings
- Produce technical drawings that detail how the building will be put together.
- Determine structural requirements for the project.
- Develop wall assemblies, framing plans, finish schedules and more to help the contractor interpret the design intent.
- Contractor can provide a final price for construction.
7. construction
We oversee and act as a liaison to the client during the building process.
8. completion!
Enjoy your newly completed project!
Step 4
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