The Custom Building Process

For many, the selection of "stock" plans or plan book plans is a most acceptable means of accomplishing the task of building a home. But for the discretionary individual or couple seeking to build a home that is reflect a more personal statement as well as meeting particular needs and a certain level of luxury. There is the custom home process, wherein input at every level of its development renders a home you can truly call your own. The design phase of that home is no exception. Allow us to walk you through the custom design process.

The Process Begins

Upon initial contact, a cost-free meeting is arranged at the offices of Florez and Florez; a chance for the prospective clients to preview previous works, formulate ideas, establish a budget, and explore the costs involved in custom design. For Rob and Mike Florez, it's an opportunity to begin the personal contact that is so important in creating a home that meets the customer's needs while reflecting the clients' personal taste for living. Questions & Answers Form the Foundation- During the initial meeting, above and beyond outlining fee structures and costs, a number of questions are addressed by the Florez firm with regards to square footage desired, number of bedrooms, baths, and specific needs of the prospective client. Further information such as the type of homesite and neighborhood will be discussed, architectural and restrictive covenants, the home's orientation to the movement of the sun, potential views, as well as existing vegetation and tree coverage, any waterfront accesses or easements; in short all the important aspects in the strategic placement and design of the home in consideration.The initial meeting comes to a close and prospective clients depart to discuss their options, consider the great possibilities, and await the contract proposal Florez and Florez expeditiously draft, based on the information gathered at the meeting. Upon acceptance of that contract, a schedule is created, and the design phase commences.

The Conceptional Stage

Let the magic begin. The first marks put down on paper, are truly aesthetic. Referred to as designer "thumbnails" rough sketches of individual rooms, room groups, floor plan studies, rooflines and elevations that are shared with he new customer, via fax, via mail, even e-mail, for their consideration, usually executed within two weeks of contract acceptance. During this phase, all floor plan layouts as well as exterior levels and elevations are determined. Conclusively, it is perhaps the most critical stage in the process as the Florez firm strives to assure their customers the greatest level of satisfaction with their new plans for living, within a projected budget. The conceptual stage is usually a three to five week period.

Design Begins

Upon approval of the conceptual design, the plans are digitally converted, and blocked out on the computer. Specific details begin to take shape, exacting locations of all major space components are determined, and the flow that is throughout their layout is created. Electronically generated plans are produced for the clients review, and upon approval, the process moves to its final phase.

Plans to Build a Dream With
The Final Phase

In this final phase of creation, exact construction plans are digitally produced, providing explicit dimensions throughout, contractor notes, and specific detailing of all features requiring thorough explanation and direction. While minor changes may be implemented at the customer's discretion, primarily this phase in the process is a technical rendering of the work in stages one and two. Partial plans or sets may be instrumented during this time if necessary for clients discerning review, to assure their uniqivocal satisfaction of the Florez custom design. As per the customer's final approval, a set of working drawings are output. Blueprint copies are printed, with one complete set forwarded to the new home owners, or their builder of choice. Additional blueprints are available for a nominal fee, upon request.

Beyond the Design Process
The Pre-Construction Phase

At this point, the builder takes over, estimating and pricing particular brands of components to be used in the construction process. An interior designer may be employed at the clients' discretion, to complete the picture, and multiple plans may be needed for their involvement. While we wholeheartedly recommend your intended builder be involved during the design process, due to the competency of today's contractors and the proficiency of the Florez & Florez product, post involvement by the Florez firm is hardly a necessity. Nevertheless, should your needs require that involvement with your builder, or perhaps an interior decorator (should you employe such a service) the Florez & Florez firm will be available on a hourly consulting basis, at any point in the process, to satisfy your every need. While we take a personal interest in every custom home we design, and generally do unofficial walk-throughs periodically during the construction process (locally, of course), we are available for any requested inspections with the customer, the builder, or both, to be billed accordingly. The process of creatively designing homes for construction by Florez & Florez is indeed a true source of personal pride reflected in the many hundreds of homes they've designed and can be seen built throughout the southeastern coastal region, for customers proud to say..." The design is ours, and Florez & Florez....of course"

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