When you are embarking on the task of changing your home–maybe expanding the footprint, or altering the property significantly–there’s a long list of items that you will need to review to ensure that you are able to build what you want. Here’s a few of the most complex areas that you may need to address:
Tree Code
If your property has any mature trees on it, we’ll need to show where they are and what type they are and how we will protect the root zone if they are to remain during the construction and build process. The city is very interested in maintaining existing, healthy, tree canopy and keeping as many as possible. Working through this list of requirements will be key in order to get your project through permitting.
Lot coverage and floor area ratio
These are two calculations that we’ll need to show if we are doing an addition or any kind of outbuilding (ADU, Accessory Structure, Detached Garage or Office) so that we can prove we are not over-building the property or exceeding the height and size that is governed by the zoning code. If you are considering an addition, either up (second story) or on grade (main level), this can have a significant impact on your project.
Stormwater Management
This can be a very tricky area and often comes late in the project once we have settled on exactly what kind of project we are going to implement. All on-site rainwater (rain hitting your roof and pavement) is now meant to be handled on-site. This needs to be included in our site planning and with an understanding of pros and cons of various options.
Additional Energy Requirements
When you add on to your home or convert an uninsulated space to habitable space, we’ll look at energy requirements for those new spaces and address the possible additional requirements that come along with a permitted and inspected new structure. Upgrading a portion of your home and having a lot of trade workers on site is a good time to upgrade additional systems in the existing home… and may be required by the city in order to approve your project.
Optimal use of your Property
For additions, it’s very important to look at the property holistically: What are the neighboring structures like? What is the solar access and orientation? How do trees, structures, or other features, affect your property? What’s the best way to arrive at, walk around or through the property? How will the exterior space and interior space work together? This analysis bridges the gap between analyzing your property for code-related issues and starting the design visualization process.
If you aren’t sure what kind of design service you are looking for, or want to explore the home and property more holistically, you may want a Whole Home Exploration, our signature design service. If you are ready to jump in on one or more of the above services in order to gain a stronger understanding of your property’s potential….
We had such a great experience working with Amanda on our addition and remodel project. From the beginning, she really took the time to understand how we live in and use our home, and she helped us thoughtfully explore several different possibilities for the space. We looked at multiple configurations for an addition, kitchen remodel ideas, and ways to rework our front rooms before landing on a final design that felt right for our family.
Throughout the process, Amanda was patient, collaborative, creative, and incredibly easy to work with. She made what could have felt overwhelming feel exciting and manageable, and we always felt listened to and supported as we worked through different ideas and iterations together.
Beyond her talent as an architect, Amanda is just a genuinely wonderful person to work with. She was responsive, thoughtful, and clearly cared about helping us create a home that feels both beautiful and functional. We’re very grateful for her guidance and would absolutely recommend her to anyone considering a remodel or addition project.