RAINBOW VALLEY'S DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

The Design/Build Concept

A design/build firm does just what the term implies. That is, the conception, development and execution of a new home, addition or remodeling project all take place under the guidance of a team of people with the same goal in mind. The method is as old as the building arts themselves. And although the approach of having a separate architect and builder had become the norm, the integrated approach of design/build has gained favor again in the last 20 years as the preferred building experience for many.

Generally speaking, what's considered 'normal' practice works like this: A person needing something built contacts an architect or designer. The project is discussed, the fee is determined, the contract is signed, and the plans are prepared. Next the client hires a general contractor to turn the plans into reality, while the architect or designer may or may not be retained to act in a purely supervisory role during construction. Communication between the different parties can become a complicated three-way street. With potential for miscommunication, misunderstanding and delayed decision-making, clients may find themselves refereeing a finger-pointing match.

With any custom design, changes to the plan are inevitable, and the more convoluted the communication, the more costly the changes become. In a design/build setting like Rainbow Valley, everyone is on the same side, with designers and builders working together throughout the project, keeping costs down, communicating regularly, making timely decisions and assuring continuity. During the design phase of a project, our designers can simply walk down the hall to consult with our construction staff. During the construction phase, our designers make regularly-scheduled site visits, and are always available to answer questions. This continuity and communication prevent major problems, and turn minor problems into opportunities.

The design/build approach isn't for everyone. It takes professionals who are willing to listen, and clients who are willing to be involved. We have an extensive list of former clients who swear by it and have found the design/build process an enjoyable and highly rewarding experience.

Rainbow Valley's Approach

If designing a home, commercial space or remodel could be compared to giving birth, Rainbow Valley favors the Lamaze method. We want you to be alert and involved every step of the way! Frankly, we're not crazy about the 'wake-me-when-it's over' approach.

You'll be an equal partner on your project's design team, because whether you know it or not, you're your own best designer. All you need is some expert coaching. Our professional designers--as good at listening as they are at designing--will help guide and interpret your memories and impressions of living spaces you've experienced during your lifetime. Through honest, direct communication, you and your designer will also explore your personal history, your living patterns, and your needs, preferences and expectations for your new space. And, as with Lamaze classes, you'll even have homework assignments. You'll be asked to respond to a thought-provoking workbook of design considerations, and to answer a design questionnaire.

Your unvarnished, thoughtful input will be among the tools your lead designer will use to create a space that reflects your personality, your sensibility and your lifestyle. Your designer will also provide expert insight to insure that these and other critical elements are considered:

• Appropriate site design: Your new space will respond to the site and the features of that site. In the case of new homes, we'll fix the shortcomings and capitalize on the strengths of a site. For remodeling projects, we'll improve any weaknesses and preserve the parts of the space that work. In either case, the result will be a space that 'feels right.'
• Vernacular: We'll make sure that your design is appropriate for the region, the community, the neighborhood and the site. For additions or remodels, we'll make sure the new space is compatible with the existing structure.
• Design principles: All Rainbow Valley designers have received formal design training and are well versed in timeless design principles as well as historic and current styles. We believe that modern buildings that respect these timeless principles will stand the test of time much better than trend-of the-moment designs.
  

Because Rainbow Valley design services are billed on an hourly basis, we can take as much or as little time as needed to arrive at a satisfying design. And we're quite accustomed to adapting our design process to accommodate the characteristics and desires of each client.

Like childbirth, Rainbow Valley's design process can be challenging. It's definitely not for wimps. But your labor pains will result in a meaningful space you feel bonded with from the moment you first set foot in the door. Your participation will insure that your new space 'fits,' and you'll be left with the feeling that you've designed it yourself. And you will have, actually, although with a little professional coaching. You may even be tempted to hand out cigars!

Rainbow Valley's Design Billing

ESTIMATED COSTS

Design costs can vary dramatically depending on project, site, clients and other factors. These unpredictable factors can affect the design process and costs at any point. So, throughout the design, the client should expect the total design costs to fall within the following estimate ranges which are based on an average of previous Rainbow Valley projects:

• Residential design costs are usually 7-12 percent of construction cost
• Commerical design costs are usually 8-15 percent of construction cost

Design cost percentages will be tracked on the monthly billing statement and can also be calculated at any point during the project. The design office will notify the client if it appears that design costs will exceed these percentage ranges.

ADDITIONAL COSTS

In addition to hourly billings, the client will be responsible for all additional design costs incurred. These charges may include, but aren't limited to, the following:

• Photos Printing charges Long distance phone calls Permit/plan check fees (see below)
• Engineering, surveying and other job specific professional work

PERMIT FEES

City and county plan check and permit fees will be billed directly to the client through the current monthly design bill and aren't included in the estimated design cost. These fees vary with each project, but can be estimated by the design department on a case by case basis.

BILLING PROCESS

• Clients will be billed monthly for the work and job-related costs incurred during the previous month. Payment is appreciated upon receipt of the billing statement
• In the event a balance isn't paid within 30 days of the statement date, a late fee will be assessed.