Simple Process
How It Works
At PAS Architects, our architectural design process is built on licensed expertise and purpose-driven care. From concept through construction documents, we lead every phase with transparency, precision, and collaboration. You’re never left wondering what’s next — our service-first approach ensures that each step of the architectural design process aligns with your goals, site, and long-term vision. No handoffs. No confusion. Just a clear path to a built reality that performs, endures, and inspires.
“We listen first — so we can design what truly serves.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | The architecture pre-design phase starts with discovery: we visit your site, assess zoning and code constraints, and clarify your goals. This foundation sets the tone for every step of the architectural design process. |
| Your Role | Share your vision, needs, and lifestyle priorities. This input defines the direction of the project. |
| Our Role | We deliver a project brief, conduct feasibility studies, and outline a strategic plan to guide your entire architect services workflow. |
| Benefit | You begin with clarity and realistic expectations—before any sketches, surprises, or missteps. |
“Turning vision into possibility — on paper.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | We begin testing building design steps through sketches, diagrams, and massing studies. Multiple layouts are explored with passive strategies in mind, supporting early design decisions. |
| Your Role | React to concepts visually—no jargon, just insight. Let us know what feels right. |
| Our Role | We refine concepts and present clear pros/cons, allowing you to actively shape the outcome of this phases of architectural design. |
| Benefit | You co-create a project that works in concept and aligns with long-term performance goals. |
“Making your design real — piece by piece.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | In this core step of the architectural design development phase, we define structure, materials, systems, and detailing—aligning design integrity with budget and function. |
| Your Role | Select finishes, windows, and systems from curated palettes while we provide technical context to guide confident choices. |
| Our Role | We produce refined plans and coordinate with structural and MEP consultants to ensure buildability and compliance. |
| Benefit | You get a design that’s both aspirational and realistic—ready for the next phase without compromise. |
“Turning the vision into precise instructions.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | We create full permit-ready construction documents, including dimensions, annotations, and consultant coordination. These are essential for plan check and contractor pricing. |
| Your Role | Review and sign off on final drawings. We explain every detail, so you understand exactly what’s being submitted. |
| Our Role | Produce code-compliant, buildable documents that move efficiently through the city approval process. |
| Benefit | You avoid delays, plan check redlines, and contractor confusion—thanks to clear and complete documents. |
“Finding the right builder — not just the cheapest.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | This step in the architecture project timeline focuses on bid coordination, proposal review, and contractor selection. We assist with pricing, clarifications, and scope alignment. |
| Your Role | Choose your contractor with our support—based on quality, communication, and budget fit. |
| Our Role | We guide you through this pivotal part of the architect services workflow, vetting proposals and advising against risks. |
| Benefit | You enter construction with clarity and confidence—backed by professional insight. |
“Built the way it was drawn — no compromises.”
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| What Happens | We remain actively involved throughout construction—resolving field issues, reviewing submittals, and ensuring the design is executed faithfully. |
| Your Role | Make timely approvals with our support—materials, finishes, and adjustments are reviewed together. |
| Our Role | We monitor construction, uphold design intent, and serve as your advocate until completion—ensuring your entire architectural design process finishes strong. |
| Benefit | You avoid change orders, misinterpretation, and loss of quality. The built result matches your original vision. |
More than drawings — we deliver a design experience built around you.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total clarity at every step | We demystify the architectural design process, providing full visibility through every stage—from pre-design phase to permitting and construction. |
| Designs that work in the real world | Our drawings are practical, permit-ready construction documents, trusted by builders and city officials alike—removing delays from your architecture project timeline. |
| Deep collaboration | We tailor each step of the architect services workflow to your lifestyle, helping shape designs that feel personal and perform beautifully. |
| Sustainable + service-driven | From the earliest building design steps to final handoff, we prioritize smart materials, energy efficiency, and a seamless client experience. |
| No fluff, no jargon | Our process is grounded in honesty and clarity. Every phase—from architectural design development to construction—is guided by transparency and trust. |
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What are the main phases of the architectural design process? | The process typically includes Pre-Design, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding, and Construction Administration. You can explore each phase in detail on our Architectural Design Process page. |
| 2. How long does a typical architecture project timeline take? | Project timelines vary by scope and jurisdiction, but most projects take 4–6 months from concept to permit-ready documents. Visit our Custom Home Cost Calculator to estimate timelines based on size and type. |
| 3. What is included in permit-ready construction documents? | These documents include floor plans, elevations, sections, code compliance notes, and consultant drawings. For California-specific guidelines, see California Building Standards Code (external). |
| 4. What happens during the architectural pre-design phase? | This early phase involves site evaluation, zoning analysis, and goal setting. It’s critical to align vision with feasibility. Learn how we structure this step on our Project Process page. |
| 5. How involved will I be in the architectural services workflow? | Clients are engaged at key milestones. You’ll provide input during layout development, materials selection, and final review—while we handle coordination and city submittals. We outline expectations clearly on our Contact Page. |
| 6. How do I know if a project is ready to move into design development? | Once a concept is approved and meets local codes, the project enters architectural design development. For context on zoning or code, check your local GIS tool or ZIMAS (LA Zoning Map) (external). |
