Question 1

How does the design process begin?

Accepted Answer

With a conversation.The first step is usually a complimentary 30–60 minute call or screen share.We talk about the property, scope, budget, schedule, priorities, what you are trying to accomplish, and where you are in the process.You do not need to have everything figured out.That is partly what the first conversation is for.You are getting to know us.We are getting to know the project.From there, we can usually determine whether the next step should be feasibility, a design proposal, or another path entirely.

Question 2

Do I need land before starting custom home design?

Accepted Answer

Not before the first conversation.We can discuss goals, priorities, program, budget, and the kind of property that might support what you have in mind before land is purchased.But a custom home eventually becomes inseparable from its site.Once a property is involved, slope, access, sun, views, utilities, vegetation, climate, regulations, and other conditions begin shaping what is possible.If you are evaluating land, that can be a very useful time to involve us.

Question 3

Do I need a survey?

Accepted Answer

For new homes, additions, ADUs, garages, and most projects affecting the site or exterior footprint, usually yes.A survey gives us the facts we need to work accurately: property boundaries, topography, easements, existing improvements, and other relevant site conditions.Interior-only remodels may not require one.If you do not already have a survey, that is completely normal.We can help determine what information the project needs and coordinate with a surveyor when appropriate.

Question 4

Can I bring sketches, floor-plan ideas, or plans I found online?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely.Bring the sketch.Bring the saved images.Bring the floor plan you have been staring at for six months.All of those can help us understand what you are responding to.They are starting points, not obligations.An idea found online still has to work with a real site, real regulations, structure, climate, energy requirements, budget, and construction.Sometimes an existing plan gives us a useful head start.Sometimes it is better used as a reference.We will tell you what we think.

Question 5

What is the homeowner’s role in the design process?

Accepted Answer

You bring knowledge we cannot.Your routines.Priorities.Preferences.Budget.Frustrations.What you value.Where you are willing to compromise and where you are not.We bring design experience, technical knowledge, and an outside perspective.Good work requires both.You do not need to arrive with answers to every design question.You do need to participate honestly enough for us to understand what the project is supposed to accomplish.

RESIDENTIAL DESIGNER vs. ARCHITECT

The practical distinction

It's Not About the Title. It's About the Work.

Are you architects?

If you do most of the same work as a residential architect, why do you call it "residential design" instead of "architecture"?

Is it legal for a residential designer to design homes in California?

When do I need a licensed architect or engineer?

Do you sign your plans?

Do your projects follow the same building codes and plan-check process as projects designed by an architect?

Why does a small project sometimes require so much process?

California Residential Design - Legal Notes

Up Front

Should we hire a residential designer or an architect?

Are you a drafting service?

Are you available for design consulting if we just need help deciding what direction to take with our project?

Can hiring a residential designer save money?

Our project is modest. Is it too small for MASTRIDICASA?

Who To Hire

How does the design process begin?

Do I need land before starting custom home design?

Do I need a survey?

Can I bring sketches, floor-plan ideas, or plans I found online?

What is the homeowner’s role in the design process?

GETTING STARTED

How does building experience shape the design?

What makes your construction documents different?

Do you work with structural engineers and other consultants?

What standards and design frameworks inform the work?

Are you properly insured?

How The Work Holds Up

What happens during a feasibility study?

What happens during concept development?

What happens during design development?

What happens during the construction document phase?

What happens during the building department plan check?

What happens after the building permit is issued?

How long does the design process take?

How do you keep the project from getting carried away?

Our Design Process

What types of projects do you work on?

Can you help with TRPA planning requirements?

Can a small design firm handle a large project?

Who will we work with?

Can you take over a project that was started by someone else?

What is it like to work with MASTRIDICASA?

WORKING WITH MASTRIDICASA

What do your fees cover?

How much do you charge for these services?

How often are invoices processed?

What payment methods do you accept?

FEES + BILLING

RESIDENTIAL DESIGNER
vs. ARCHITECT

It's Not About the Title.
It's About the Work.