Pre-Design Advisory
Your roadmap before you commit to anything.
Before you invest in a full architectural engagement, you need to know what you're actually dealing with. What's possible on your site or in your space. What approvals you'll need and how long they take. What it's likely to cost. And whether the project you have in mind is the right project to pursue. That's what the Pre-Design Advisory Report gives you — a clear, written picture of your project so you can make an informed decision about how to move forward.
How it works · Three meetings · One written report
Getting to know you
Virtual
I start by understanding how you live or work: what's working, what isn't, and what you're really trying to achieve. For a commercial project, we start with the business: how the space needs to work, who uses it, and what your lease allows. We'll talk through the project, what's driving it, and what success looks like to you.
Site visit
In person
I visit the property or space, walk the site, photograph existing conditions, and take note of everything that will shape the project — the lot or building, the structure, the systems, the context.
Report presentation
Virtual
I present your completed Pre-Design report and walk through the findings together — the strategy, the constraints, the budget range, and the recommended path forward.
What you receive
Project brief — your goals, priorities, and program needs
Site analysis — zoning, setbacks, flood zone, conservation, and site-specific factors. Use group, occupancy, and egress for commercial spaces.
Existing conditions analysis — current conditions, structure, and systems
Lease and landlord review — for tenant improvement projects: alteration rights, approval process, and lease requirements
Agency approvals overview — which permits are required, the process, and realistic timelines
Strategy — how to approach the project given your specific constraints and goals
Rough order of magnitude budget — a ballpark cost range to help you plan
Next steps and a full proposal for full architectural services if you'd like to move forward
What this is not
This is not a design engagement. No drawings or design concepts are produced during the Pre-Design engagement. It is a strategic and analytical service — the foundation you need before design begins.
Sometimes the engagement confirms you're ready to move forward. Sometimes it tells you something more valuable — that you're not, and why.
Fixed fee · Due at time of booking
Payment is due at time of booking and is non-refundable once the engagement has begun. By completing payment you agree to these terms and authorize Samantha Grace Architecture to proceed with the engagement. Report findings are based on publicly available information, site observation, and professional judgment — they are not a substitute for engineering reports, surveys, or legal advice.
Ready to get started?
Book your first meeting below. You'll receive a confirmation with everything you need to prepare.
Pay & Book — $5,000