The Hetrick Design Experience

This first step focuses on understanding you, your goals, and the general vision for your home.

We begin with a brief discovery call to discuss your project type, location, timeline, budget expectations, and overall scope. This helps determine whether the project is a good fit and what the next step should be.

If the project appears to be a good fit, we’ll move forward with a more detailed design consultation and begin gathering the information needed to establish a clear direction for the project.

This phase focuses on understanding the property and its constraints.

When appropriate for the project, a site evaluation allows for a more in-depth review of conditions such as topography, orientation, views, access, and overall site potential. For remodels or additions, this may also include documenting existing structures and conditions.

An up-to-date survey is recommended to confirm boundaries and avoid limitations, after which a Service Agreement and Design Retainer are provided to begin design.

For some projects, this phase may begin with a short Project Authorization to cover site evaluation and preliminary feasibility work prior to moving into the full design phases

Preliminary concept drawings are developed to explore layout, proportion, and overall character, including floor plans, a primary elevation, and a preliminary site layout showing the proposed placement of the home, driveway, outdoor living areas, and other key elements on the property.

This is not a final site plan, but an initial design study based on available information.

Design development occurs through structured iterations:

• Standard Drawing Set: Up to three (3) design iterations

• Signature Drawing Set: Up to four (4) design iterations

Each round builds on your feedback to refine the design toward a cohesive and well-balanced solution.

With the schematic design approved, the project is refined through fine-tuning and detailed coordination.

This phase includes:

• Refinement of layouts and spatial relationships

• Sizing and coordination of windows, doors, and openings

• Development of kitchen, bath, and interior layouts

• Refinement of exterior elements, roof design, and proportions

• Coordination with consultants, as needed

Preliminary structural coordination and builder input may also occur during this phase to support early pricing alignment.

The approved design is developed into a complete, permit-ready drawing set.

These documents typically include:

• Floor plans, elevations, and sections

• Key construction details

• Notes required for permitting and construction

The builder or owner submits documents for permit approval; revisions may be made as needed.

This phase provides support during builder selection and pricing, helping bring clarity and confidence to the decision process.

Services may include:

• Reviewing contractor bids and identifying potential discrepancies

• Highlighting scope gaps or inconsistencies

Helping align proposals with the construction documents.

Design support may continue during construction through consultation and limited site visits to help maintain alignment with the design intent.

This may include:

• Answering builder questions as they arise

• Reviewing field conditions and site progress

• Providing clarification to support accurate execution

Construction means and methods remain the responsibility of the builder.