What You Can Expect With Design Fees

This page explains how architectural fees work, what’s included at each level of service, and why costs vary from one project to another. Our goal is to make the process simple and predictable — so you can focus on the vision.

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Design Fee Options

We use a few simple pricing methods depending on your project type and goals:

Fixed Fee

Small projects with a clear scope. One set price agreed upon before we start. No surprises.

Hourly Fee

Consulting, feasibility, or early design help. You only pay for the time we spend on your project.

Percentage of Construction Cost (Most Common)

Larger or evolving projects. A fair way to align design work with the total project investment. Typically 8% – 12% of the construction cost.

Our Typical Fee Ranges by Project Type

1. Concept Design

(3% – 5% of Total Build Budget)

  • For early-stage ideas, layout concepts, and feasibility studies.
  • Includes sketches, mood boards, and conceptual layouts.
  • Ideal for clients exploring options before committing to full design.

2. Full Residential Design

(8% – 12% of Total Budget)

  • Complete home or renovation design from concept through construction drawings.
  • Includes plans, elevations, 3D visuals, and permit-ready documentation.
  • Perfect for homeowners ready to move from idea to build.

3. Custom Homes & Additions

(10% – 14% of Total Budget)

  • Comprehensive design for unique homes or complex additions.
  • Includes detailed architecture, finishes, materials, and builder coordination.
  • Tailored for projects requiring custom solutions and close collaboration.

4. Commercial & Hospitality Design

(7% – 10% of Total Budget)

  • Design for restaurants, cafes, wellness centers, or boutique retail.
  • Includes planning, code compliance, and finish coordination.
  • Focused on functional design that supports business growth.

5. Design-Build Projects

(6% – 9% of Total Budget)

  • Lower total design cost through integrated delivery with Spaces Design Build.
  • Combines design and construction management for efficiency and cost savings.
  • Ideal for clients who want a seamless, single-source process.

6. Concept-to-Completion Package

(10% – 15% of Total Budget)

  • Our most comprehensive service level, covering design, documentation, and construction oversight.
  • Includes everything from initial ideas to final site visits.
  • Best for clients who want a hands-on design partner through every phase.

service Options

What's Included In Your Design Service

Helping You Choose The Right Design Package for Your Needs

Base Architectural Services (8–10% of Construction Budget)

Foundational design and documentation for most projects.

  • Initial site visit and consultation
  • Concept and layout design
  • Floor plans, elevations, and basic 3D views
  • Design development with material selections
  • Construction drawings for pricing and permitting
  • Coordination with engineers and city officials
  • Limited construction support (phone/email)

Full-Service Architecture (10–15% of Construction Budget)

For clients who want a higher level of design involvement and construction oversight.

  • Includes everything in Base Services, plus:
  • Detailed interior and exterior design coordination
  • Lighting and finish selections
  • Regular on-site reviews and contractor meetings
  • Design adjustments during construction
  • Quality control and design intent verification
  • Close-out review and completion walk-through

What’s Not Typically Included

Some specialized items are billed separately to keep fees fair and predictable.

  • Structural, mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering
  • Surveying and site analysis
  • Interior furnishings, décor, or artwork selection
  • Permit application fees and city costs
  • As-built documentation (for existing structures)
  • Optional marketing renderings or animation videos

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Our 6 Step Design Process

1. Initial Consultation (1 - 2 Weeks)

We begin with a conversation to understand your goals, lifestyle, and budget. During this stage, we review your site or home, share initial insights, and confirm the scope of work. Most consultations and early assessments can be completed within one to two weeks.

2. Concept Design (2 - 4 weeks)

Ideas take shape through early sketches, layouts, and inspiration boards. This is where we define the big-picture vision—style, flow, and the relationship of spaces to daily living. Concept design typically takes two to four weeks depending on the complexity of your project.

3. Schematic Design (3 - 5 Weeks)

Concepts evolve into scaled drawings and preliminary 3D visuals. We refine layouts, begin exploring materials, and confirm the overall design direction together. Homeowners can expect three to five weeks for this stage as ideas are tested and adjusted.

4. Design Development ( 4 - 6 weeks)

We dive deeper into details—materials, finishes, lighting, and built-in features. At this stage, we coordinate with engineers and consultants to ensure the design is functional and ready to build. This phase usually takes four to six weeks as details are finalized.

5. Construction Documents (6 - 10 weeks)

Our team creates a complete set of technical drawings and specifications—plans, elevations, sections, and detailed notes—that your builder will use. Depending on the project size, this stage often takes six to ten weeks to produce a precise and thorough set.

6. Permitting (4 - 8 Weeks)

We prepare and submit documents to your local jurisdiction, coordinate revisions if required, and secure the necessary permits. Permitting time varies greatly depending on the city, but most approvals take four to eight weeks.

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