The Working Process

Pre-design is the information-gathering phase that lays the groundwork for the rest of the project. We focus on understanding your personality, lifestyle, space needs (now and future), and how you want to live and use the space.
This includes documenting existing site conditions, conducting land surveys, and researching the site’s climate, context, and applicable regulations. Your active participation is key—this phase relies on honest conversations and collaboration to ensure the design reflects your values and goals.

Schematic Design is where ideas take shape. Using the insights from Pre-design, we explore layout options, overall form, and the project's look and feel. This phase is about big-picture thinking—not materials or fine details yet. We share sketches, precedent images, and models to help you visualize the design and gather your feedback. Together, we refine the concept until we agree on a clear direction. Your input is essential, and your approval is required before moving on.

Design Development builds on the approved floor plan and exterior concept, refining all major aspects of the design. We create more detailed drawings and outline specs to share with contractors for preliminary cost estimates. If needed, adjustments are made early to align the design with the budget.
A contractor is often involved at this stage to advise on materials, systems, and costs. We also bring in engineers to coordinate structural, mechanical, and electrical systems. By the end of this phase, the exterior is well defined, interior layouts are finalized, and most materials are selected. The result is a clear, coordinated design ready for technical development.

Construction Documents translate the approved design into a detailed, technical set of drawings and specifications for construction. These documents show exactly how the building is assembled, including dimensions, materials, finishes, fixtures, and equipment. We coordinate closely with engineers and consultants to ensure everything aligns. This phase often takes the most time, even though the design feels “done,” because precision is key to building accurately. Clients should be ready to make final decisions—our role is to guide and inform you so the finished project reflects your vision and needs.

Permitting involves submitting the project to various government agencies for approval. We start environmental studies early, then submit to CFIA (Costa Rica’s College of Engineers and Architects), followed by the Ministry of Health, ICT, and any local development design committees. Once all approvals are in, the municipality issues the final building permit. We manage the entire process and respond to any requests during the review. Clients typically don’t need to do much here—just be patient, as timelines and costs can vary depending on location and project complexity.

Construction Administration ensures your project is built as designed. We make regular site visits—weekly or monthly depending on the project—to answer questions, address issues, and keep construction on track. Our role is to advise you and coordinate with the builder to avoid delays and costly mistakes. We document progress with photos and reports, confirm quality, and help finalize the Punch List at the end to make sure everything is completed to your standards.