Building a Custom Home: How the Design and Permit Process Really Works
- codydylanburke
- Aug 24
- 3 min read
When planning a custom home, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right residential architect. A custom home is more than just a floor plan, although a well thought out floor plan is a great first step. It’s an opportunity to create a space that reflects your lifestyle, your family, and the way you want to live. But the process of design, drawings, permits, and construction can feel complicated and overwhelming without the right team.
An architect can guide you through each phase of the journey, making sure your goals drive the process and you always know what comes next. Here’s a clear look at the main milestones you can expect when working with an architect on a residential project.
1. Initial Consultation and Programming
The process begins with a discussion of goals, priorities, budget, and the site. Understanding the client’s needs establishes the foundation for a collaborative partnership.
2. Schematic Design
This creative stage focuses on exploring design ideas, layouts, and overall concepts. Architects often present sketches and 3D models that show different approaches. Clients review the options, provide feedback, and ultimately approve a preferred floor plan and 3D massing direction before moving forward. At this stage, the architect may also help onboard key consultants, such as surveyors or geotechnical engineers, whose reports are often required for the project to move forward.
3. Design Development
Once a schematic design is approved, the project moves into greater detail. Site plans, floor plans, exterior elevations, sections, and 3D models are developed so clients can better visualize the home. This stage provides another opportunity for feedback and sign-off before technical work begins.
4. Construction Documents
Detailed construction drawings are prepared for permitting and contractors. These documents explain in detail how the home will be built and how it will look. Accurate construction documents help streamline approvals and reduce the likelihood of changes and surprises during construction. At this phase, the architect also manages and coordinates any required engineering, such as structural design, ensuring that all consultant work is integrated seamlessly into the final set of drawings.
5. Permit Submittal and Plan Check
The construction drawings are submitted to the local building department for plan check. Each jurisdiction has its own requirements, and the architect manages the process to ensure compliance. If comments or revisions are requested, the architect coordinates the response and drawing resubmittals.
6. Permit Approval
Once all comments are addressed, the project receives a building permit. This approval authorizes construction to begin.
7. Construction Administration
During construction, the architect can serve as the client’s advocate. Site visits, contractor coordination, and responses to questions help ensure that the home is built as designed. Adjustments can be made to field conditions to keep construction moving forward and aligned with client goals.
Why Choosing the Right Architect Matters
Building a custom home or addition is a major investment of time and resources, and the process can feel intimidating. The right residential architect makes the experience understandable and collaborative while keeping the client’s goals at the center of every decision.
A strong architect-client relationship provides:
A design that reflects the client’s vision and lifestyle.
A set of construction drawings that brings this design to life and clearly articulates the work needed.
Guidance through permits and approvals.
A collaborative process with client input at every stage.
Confidence that the project is moving in the right direction.
Every client is different, and every custom home should reflect that individuality. The most successful projects are those where the process is guided by the client’s goals and supported by an architect who knows how to bring them to life.
Moving Forward With a Custom Home Project
Homeowners beginning the journey of building a custom home should seek an architect who makes the process clear, comfortable, and collaborative. With the right guidance, what can seem like a complicated process becomes an exciting opportunity to create a home that is truly one of a kind.
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