How We Actually Plan Things

Look, planning isn't just drawing pretty lines on blueprints. It's about really understanding what you need and figuring out how to make it happen without going crazy in the process.

Building Tomorrow's Communities with Vision and Purpose

Our Planning Process - The Real Deal

After doing this for years, we've learned that every project's different. But here's roughly how things usually go down...

01

Initial Consultation & Discovery

Week 1-2

First things first - we grab coffee (or tea, no judgment) and just talk. What're you actually trying to build? What keeps you up at night about this project?

We'll walk the site together, poke around, take notes. I've found that the best ideas come from actually being there, not staring at satellite images.

Site consultation
What you'll get:
  • Site analysis report (the readable kind, not 50 pages of jargon)
  • Preliminary feasibility assessment
  • Honest feedback about what's realistic
02

Research & Concept Development

Week 3-5

Concept development

This is where we dig into zoning codes, local regulations, and all that fun stuff. Honestly, it can be tedious but it saves everyone headaches later.

We'll sketch out a few different concepts - nothing fancy yet, just exploring possibilities. Some clients know exactly what they want, others need to see options before they figure it out.

What happens here:
  • Regulatory compliance review
  • Environmental impact considerations
  • 3-5 conceptual design directions
  • Budget reality check
03

Design Development & Refinement

Week 6-10

Okay, so you've picked a direction. Now we get into the nitty-gritty. This phase is all about taking that rough concept and turning it into something buildable.

Detailed Plans

Floor plans, elevations, sections - all the technical stuff contractors need

Material Selection

Picking finishes, fixtures, sustainable options that fit your budget

Systems Design

HVAC, electrical, plumbing - coordinating with engineers

04

Permits & Approvals

Week 11-16

Not gonna lie - this part can be frustrating. Dealing with city planners, submitting documents, waiting for responses... It's not glamorous but it's necessary.

The good news? We've done this enough times that we know who to talk to and how to get things moving. Still takes time though.

Reality check: Permit timelines vary wildly depending on your municipality. In Vancouver, we typically see 6-12 weeks, but I've seen it take longer for complex projects.
Permit process
05

Construction Documentation

Week 17-20

This is where we create the full construction set - every detail spelled out so contractors know exactly what to build. Specifications, details, schedules... it's comprehensive.

  • Complete working drawings
  • Technical specifications
  • Material schedules
  • Construction details
Construction documents
06

Construction Administration

Throughout Construction

We don't just hand over the plans and disappear. During construction, we're there to answer questions, review submittals, and make sure things are being built according to the design.

Site Visits

Review Submittals

Answer RFIs

Quality Control

Basically, we stick around until the project's done and you're happy with it.

Let's Talk About Your Project

Every project starts with a conversation. No pressure, no sales pitch - just a real discussion about what you're trying to accomplish.

Get In Touch

(604) 555-0147

info@nightvalorchapter.info

What Clients Are Saying

"They didn't just design a building - they actually listened to how we work and designed around that. The space flows way better than I expected."

- Marcus T., Commercial Client

"The permit process was way less painful than I thought it'd be. They knew exactly what the city wanted and how to present it."

- Jennifer L., Residential Project

"Real talk - they kept us on budget and actually warned us when we were about to make expensive mistakes. That's rare."

- David & Sarah K., Heritage Restoration

"Their sustainable approach wasn't just talk. Our energy costs are down 40% compared to the old building."

- Roberto M., Urban Development

Ready to Get Started?

Let's grab a coffee and talk about what you're planning. First consultation's on us - no strings attached.