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Our Process

Our work is divided in 3 phases:

Strategy, Design-Detail, and Build. 

These phases cover the steps from the initial idea and pre-design to construction administration and Project Delivery.

The first phase is the Strategy, the foundation, and the first step for our services. After that phase is concluded, you may opt to continue developing your project with us until completion or continue on your own. 

This allows you to have a clear path and direction for your project, with some ideas to fall back in case you have a change of heart during the project development. Then, whether you decide to complete your project with us or not, you will have a clear strategy, goal, and plan of action. 

Strategy
 

Design and Detail
 

Build

This is the first step to identifying opportunities and constraints and developing a strategy and general action plan. This phase includes the initial consultation, programming, zoning analysis, feasibility,  schematic design, and next steps outlines.

The goal for this phase is for you to have a clear path and a direction for your project. This is important to start establishing a construction and time budget. It is the roadmap for your development!

With a clear direction from the previous phase, we start developing the project, detailing, adding materials, and concentrating on the design. This is the main course; at the end, you will have construction documents and permit drawings.

This phase shows the design intent, details, specs, and the information needed to make it happen!

This is the construction phase. 

Yes, having your architect involved during construction is to your best advantage. 

At this point, we know the project well, and we stay around to answer questions from contractors and make recommendations based on the design intent.

Our goal? To see a smile on your face when you finally move in! 

Full Architectural Services

Idea phase:

It all starts with an idea or a need that you may have on how to improve, modify or maximize the use of your property or existing building. 

Complimentary Consultation

 The best way to start is with a free consultation call to discuss your project, needs, and expectations. We will also tell you more about us and our process and answer some general questions. 

Pre-Design

The first phase of your project is pre-design. The services are described below. This is an explorative phase, and the length depends on the complexity of your project.

This is the foundation of the design process.  

A significant part of the project's success lies in this phase.

We explore the early stages of programming, planning, and conceptualization to help you define project direction and identify the key components that will shape your specific project.

Site Planning

and Zoning

  • Site analysis

  • Preliminary zoning analysis

  • Existing site conditions

Feasibility Studies

  • Program and user needs

  • Preliminary codes and regulations

  • Analysis

  • Environment and historic analysis

  • Existing conditions

Master Planning

  • Long term goals and plans

  • Project phasing

MILESTONE

At the end of the pre-design phase, we deliver a document with our findings and recommendations for the course of action. We define the team of consultants and engineers to help achieve your goals, and we sign a contract for essential design services. 

Concept phase

Based on the information collected during the previous phase, we develop 2 or 3 options for your project's general layout and shape, along with the appropriate graphics to convey the idea. It is all about size and configuration.

MILESTONE

At the end of the Concept phase, the goal is to have a single concept you absolutely love. We will take that concept and develop it to a final product. 

Basic Development

Great, we are getting there! Now we have a single design concept you love, based on all the data and research compiled from the previous phases. 

Now we begin refining the spaces, choosing materials, and specifying general structural and engineering systems. 

MILESTONE

At some point in the middle of this phase, we will take the drawings to the Planning Department for zoning approvals.

At the end of the Basic Development phase, you will have a design that looks very close to the design product. Most of the major decisions should be made by this point. We will also address any additional concerns from the planning department.

Construction Documents and Bid

Details, details, details 

Now we detail everything. Specify all materials, develop schedules and a set of construction documents.

MILESTONE

At the end of the Construction Documents and Bid phase, you will have a set of Construction Documents that will be used for bid and permit purposes. 

If you don't have a Contractor selected, we help you pre-qualify Contractors and administer the Bid Process.

We also assist with permit submittal and address Building Department comments until the permit is released. Please note that only the owner or contractor can pull the building permit.

Construction

After the permit is issued, the construction can begin!

We conduct site visits, help with construction administration, answer contractors' questions, and review shop drawings. 

MILESTONE

At the end of construction, we will develop a punch list and conduct the final walk around the site with you and the Contractor. 

After the Building Department issues a Certificate of Occupancy, you can occupy your new beautiful space!

Project Completion!

 

Seeing you thriving in your new house, room or store makes us love what we do!

© 2026 by Unfolding Lines
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90016 Los Angeles, California, USA

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