Architecture & Design
Every construction project starts at Architecture & Design. That's why at 3rd Story Philly, we've integrated that into our entire process and have an in-house architectural designer. Through years of experience and a multitude of different projects, we've learned how to streamline this process and simplify your experience.
Existing Property Survey
After your initial meeting with our architectural designer, the first step for him to get started on your project is to take a property survey. He will visit your site to take measurements of the existing space, allowing him to create a 2D plan through Revit which will then populate the home in a 3D rendering.
Our Architectural Designer, David, altering 2D floor plans to generate 3D models.
Conceptual Plans
After our architectural designer has surveyed your home, and created existing floor plans, you are able to start the exciting process of new conceptual plans. This is where you redesign the existing living spaces that need more room, more functionality, new bathrooms or bedrooms, etc.
Initial draft of floor plan layout options at our Poplar Street project.
Permits, Variances, Zoning
Each project has different requirements, but you can expect to pull permits for all of them. The Philadelphia Licenses and Inspections office (L&I) approves or denies your permits, variances, and zoning requirements. We work with them daily and understand the nuances of this very dry, but incredibly important step.
Schematic Plans
After several iterations of conceptual plans are made, you will decide on a final floor plan. The schematic plan gets in to the nitty gritty details of the exact measurements and sizes of everything.
Refined plans following client input after several meetings with our architectural designer.
Construction Documents
Once the details and specifications of the floor plan are finalized, we submit the plans to L&I for approval. Once approved, we are legally allowed by the city to start construction.
Construction Documents for our Poplar Street project which were submitted and approved to build.
Spec Packet
At this stage of the process, we dive into what most clients find the most enjoyable; the spec packet! This is where you choose the finishes inside your new dream home and customize everything from tiles, paint, fixtures, lights, etc. Pinterest pages, vision boards, and reference photos are common.
The spec packet of our Poplar street project. These are finishes the client has chosen for the primary bathroom, general interior, and general exterior.
Photorealistic Renderings
During the creation of the spec packet, our architectural designer will produce photorealistic renderings of the spaces you have created with your chosen finishes. This is a fluid process of back and forth communication between you and our designer, until the renderings look just like you are imagining.
.jpg)
Primary Bathroom Picture 1
.jpg)
Primary Bathroom Picture 2
Third floor stairs to primary bedroom and primary bathroom walkthrough.
