+theProcess
What to expect when you work with rye+oak.
Most homeowners come to us having heard at least one horror story. A project that went over budget. A designer who disappeared after the contract was signed. A contractor who ran the show while the design fell apart.
That's not how this works.
Every rye+oak project follows a clear, deliberate sequence. You will always know where we are, what comes next, and what decisions you need to make. There are no handoffs. The person you hire is the person doing the work.
01.DISCOVERY
Let's find out if we're a fit.
Before anything is drawn or decided, we get on a call. About your project, your goals, your timeline, and your budget. This conversation is as much for you as it is for me. I want to understand how you live and what you're trying to build. You should hang up knowing exactly how this process works and what it will cost to get there.
If it's a fit, we move forward. If it's not, I'll tell you that too.
02.PRE-DESIGN
The work that makes everything else possible.
Before the first line is drawn, I do the research. I analyze the site, study the zoning and code requirements specific to your property, and document existing conditions. I align on program. What the project actually includes, what it doesn't, and why. And I pressure-test the budget against the scope before any design decisions are made.
Most projects run into trouble because this phase was skipped or rushed. At rye+oak it is thorough and it is included in your fee. By the time we move into design, there are no surprises waiting on the other side.
03.SCHEMATIC-DESIGN
The vision takes shape.
This is where I establish the direction of the project. Floor plan options, massing, spatial relationships, how the home sits on the site. I am not refining details yet. I am making big decisions and making sure they are the right ones before committing to anything.
You will review, respond, and push back. This phase only moves forward when you are confident in the direction.
04.DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Every inch gets resolved.
Once the direction is set, I go deep. This is where rye+oak does its most deliberate work. Every room, every transition, every built-in and material relationship gets considered. Exterior details, window placement, interior elevations, millwork, material palettes.
For most projects, this phase also includes interior design coordination. On larger projects, Phil and Summer work together to carry the design language from the architecture through to the finishes and fixtures. On smaller remodels, I handle everything through design development with the exception of decor.
Nothing moves to construction documents until every decision has been made intentionally.
05.CONSTRUCTION DOCS
The full set. No gaps.
This is the complete drawing package your contractor and the city will use to build and permit the project. Detailed plans, elevations, sections, schedules, and specifications. These documents are thorough by design. Gaps in construction documents become problems on the job site. I do not leave gaps.
You will review the full set before it goes anywhere.
06.PERMITTING + BIDDING
Approved and ready to build.
I prepare and submit all permit applications and manage the review process with the city or county. I respond to corrections, track approvals, and keep you informed throughout. Permitting timelines vary by jurisdiction, but you will never be left wondering where things stand.
I also help you navigate contractor selection. I can issue the drawing set to multiple contractors for competitive bidding, review their proposals, and help you understand what you are actually comparing. The goal is to enter construction with the right contractor, a realistic budget, and a permitted set of drawings. In that order.
07.CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATION
The design holds through the build.
A great set of drawings only matters if the build follows them. During construction, I stay involved. Site visits, responding to contractor questions, reviewing submittals, and making sure the finished product reflects the design intent.
This is where a lot of studios step back. I don't.
+Ready to start the conversation?
Download the Investment Guide to see real timelines, cost frameworks, and how the process maps to your specific project.
When you're ready, fill out the project inquiry form and I'll be in touch within 48 hours.