building

This is the design process we use when working with our clients.

1. Ideas – Get a few magazines and books from your book store or library. Photocopy ideas that you like. Make notes on the photocopy’s. One of our favourite books is Susan Susanka’s book called “Outside the Not so Big House”.
2. Choosing – Leave your favourites on the kitchen counter so you can see them every time you walk by. Keep making notes. Consider texture, colour, size, function, form and feel.
3. Designing – Your designer/contractor should take you through a Charret (or structured brainstorming). For shared things like fences it is a good idea to included your neighbour(s) in this process.
4. Feeling/Experiencing – With your partner, designer, friend use a tape measure and stake your ideas out in your yard. Use string, tape, cardboard cutouts. If you have kids they will love this part.
5. Building – Lastly you or your contractor will put it together. Your sweat equity will help reduce the costs but be sure you co-ordinate your efforts with your contractor. Things that help include: daily cleanup, pulling nails, painting, picking up supplies, moving material, and the occasional tea, coffee or treat.