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OUR DESIGN PROCESS



Whether you’re building new or renovating, our integrated architecture and interior design workflow moves you from idea to keys-in-hand with clarity, cost control, and a wellness-first approach. In our free consultation, we’ll review your goals, budget, and timeline, and outline the right path (site-built or factory-built, remodel or ground-up). Factory-built custom homes can often deliver faster schedules and slightly lower costs—we’ll tell you when that makes sense. We manage the entire journey—from feasibility through construction—so you don’t have to.



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THE 7 PHASES OF A PROJECT



​PROGRAMMING (PROBLEM-SEEKING)

We define the scope, goals, constraints, and success metrics. For existing buildings, we field-measure and produce accurate CAD backgrounds. For new builds/additions, we coordinate a site survey early. Deliverables Space needs & adjacency map Measured existing drawings (if applicable) Goals: functional, aesthetic, budget, schedule Initial site constraints and regulatory flags Why it matters Start with clarity = fewer redesigns later and tighter bids.

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​CONCEPTUAL DESIGN (BIG PICTURE OPTIONS)


We explore massing, flow, and feel—sketches, blocking, and early plans. Interiors drive room shape/size from day one (design “inside-out”). Deliverables Concept diagrams + mood direction Preliminary floor/site options Early biophilic strategies (light, views, materials).


SCHEMATIC DESIGN (CHOOSE THE DIRECTION)


We refine the preferred option into coherent plans and exterior elevations. We start considering furniture layouts and key interior moves. A first all-in budget range (construction + soft costs) helps keep scope aligned to reality. Deliverables: SD plans + elevations; Furniture/fixture approach; Order-of-magnitude cost range & value options


DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (DECISIONS, NOT GUESSES)


We finalize systems and finishes and engage engineers. Materials are evaluated for beauty, durability, and cost. If planning approvals are required, we submit here. Deliverables: DD set with preliminary engineering; Material boards & interior schedules; Updated cost check and VE (value engineering) as needed; Planning submittal (if required).



​CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS (BUILDABLE DETAIL)


We issue two sets in this Phase:

Permit Set for the Building Department

Issued for Construction (IFC) set with the detail contractors actually build from. Deliverables: Full CD set: details, notes, schedules; Coordination with consultants; Permit submittal package. Why it matters Complete drawings = tighter, comparable bids and fewer change orders.​



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WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY



"Garcia Architects was the primary architect and interior designer at Santa Barbara Bank & Trust for many years, providing excellence in service, and superior client relations and project delivery on our projects all over California. Their design work on our flagship bank branch was exceptional and they were a critical partner."


-John Shehorn, former Santa Barbara Bank & Trust Head of Corporate Real Estate



WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY



"We hired Garcia Architects to provide the design and coordinate the contractors for our project. They provided terrific renderings which were extremely helpful for us to visualize our various options. They did not impose their vision on us, but rather, worked to understand what we wanted and needed. We are very pleased with the way the project turned out. Not only is Garcia Architects a talented design firm, they are extremely helpful and responsive. In addition, they helped ensure that the project was done in a cost effective way; interfacing with the contractors to ensure that the work was done right and that billing was correct. I highly recommend Garcia Architects to anyone in need of an excellent designer."


-Georgene Vairo, Homeowner



WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY



"Garcia Architects was the designer for our wine tasting room, Al Lago Wines. They coordinated the contractors and didn’t impose their own design objectives on us, but listened to our ideas, provided some input, and encouraged us to make the choices that best represented our own style and objectives. They were always extremely responsive and also very conscientious about costs, diligently researching options that provided the biggest impact for the best value. The space is beautiful and we are thrilled with it."


-Simone Lagomarsino, Owner of Al Lago Wines



WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY



"Garcia Architects designed and oversaw a remodel of our media center and kitchen, and also designed a really cool modern fence, gate and front door for our home. I would work with them again and highly recommend them.


-Jennifer Kennedy, Homeowner



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