FAQs: Design & Planning, Permits, and Design Services

Our firm stands out by offering transparent communication and a streamlined design process that enhances the client experience. We prioritize creativity, attention to detail, and personalized service, ensuring each project aligns with your unique vision and business goals.

While we do not perform construction work directly, we can connect you with trusted contractors through our referral network to ensure your project runs smoothly from design to build.

Yes, we specialize in designing a wide range of commercial spaces, including restaurants, retail stores, Boba Shops, and medical offices. We tailor each design to suit the specific needs of your business, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal to attract and engage your customers.

Yes, you are welcome to use your own licensed and insured structural engineer. However, we also work with a network of trusted engineers who can assist with your project, ensuring the design is executed efficiently.

Yes, we provide As-Built drawing services to capture existing conditions for your project. Our team ensures accuracy in every detail, helping facilitate permits and future renovations.

Yes, we offer zoning and land use assistance as part of our permitting services, ensuring your project meets local regulations and is approved without delays.

Before starting, it’s helpful to have an understanding of your project goals, budget, and any initial design ideas. If available, please provide existing property documents to streamline the process.

Our fixed-fee packages don’t cover consultant fees for structural and civil engineering, MEP engineering, Title 24 fees, city/county plan check fees, or special clearances and reviews.

Additional costs may apply for consultants, special clearances, or city/county fees, which are billed separately from our fixed-fee packages.

We offer a progress payment schedule for projects, which ensures payments are made as work progresses. We do not offer extended payment plans beyond this structure.

We offer contractor referral services, helping you choose reliable and experienced professionals who align with your project needs. We ensure that contractors provide competitive bids and meet your timeline and budget.

We carefully select contractors based on their reputation, experience, and past client feedback. We only recommend professionals with proven success in the industry.

It’s best to start seeking bids after your project is fully designed, engineered, and submitted for city approval to avoid unnecessary delays.

While we don’t mediate disputes directly, we can guide you on how to address issues with contractors and recommend professional services if necessary.

A permit is needed if your remodeling involves removing or relocating walls, doors, windows, or plumbing fixtures. Always check with the local authorities for specific requirements.

Permits are required for new construction, additions, alterations, and demolitions. It’s crucial to obtain proper permits before starting any significant changes to your property.

Permits are usually valid for 6 months but can be extended for another 3 to 6 months, depending on the city’s regulations.

The permit approval process typically takes 3 to 9 months, depending on the complexity of the project and the local authority’s review process.

If you require an expedited permit, it’s best to discuss your specific needs with the city’s planning department to understand the available options.

If your application is rejected, we’ll help identify the issues and resubmit your application after making the necessary adjustments.

Yes, we can help with permits for historical building renovations and ensure your project complies with relevant preservation regulations.

Significant changes after submission may require additional reviews and approvals, potentially affecting the timeline. We’ll guide you through the process to address any required adjustments.

We specialize in designing a wide range of commercial spaces, including Boba Shops, restaurants, medical offices, retail stores, and more. Each design is customized to meet the unique needs of your business.

We work closely with you to understand your brand, goals, and space requirements. Our team ensures the design reflects your business identity while remaining functional and efficient.

Yes, our firm offers comprehensive services, including design, engineering coordination, permitting, and contractor referrals, ensuring your project runs smoothly from beginning to end.

Absolutely! Sustainability is a key priority for us. We incorporate eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and innovative designs to minimize environmental impact.

Changes to the design may require adjustments to the plans, potentially affecting the timeline. We’ll work with you to accommodate the changes and keep your project on track.

Our firm facilitates clear communication and coordination between all contractors and consultants involved in your project, ensuring everything proceeds without delays.

We can review your property and local zoning regulations to determine if an ADU is a viable option. Our team will guide you through the necessary steps to get approval.

Depending on the complexity, most design projects take between 6 to 12 weeks to complete. We’ll provide a more accurate estimate during the initial consultation.

We’ll work with you to set a realistic budget from the start, providing cost estimates at each stage of the project. We’re committed to maintaining financial transparency throughout.

Changes made during construction may incur additional costs and time. It’s essential to discuss any changes early so we can assess their impact and adjust the project timeline accordingly.

Yes, we incorporate sustainable design practices, such as energy-efficient solutions and eco-friendly materials, to help reduce the environmental impact of your project.