Our Process
From First Sketch to Move-In
Ten defined phases. Transparent decision points. A process designed to take you from site analysis all the way through move-in.
§ 00 — Overview
Ten Phases. One Continuous Experience.
Every CPD project moves through ten defined phases — each with clear deliverables and structured decision points. From site analysis through move-in, the process is designed to keep you informed and in control at every stage.
Phase 01
Pre-Design
Phase 02
Concept Design
Phase 03
Design Refinement
Phase 04
Regulatory Approvals
Phase 05
Interior Design
Phase 06
Construction Docs
Phase 07
Building Permit
Phase 08
Build Support
Phase 09
Furniture Install
Phase 10
Move-In
§ 01 — Pre-Design
Before We Design, We Listen.
We begin by understanding your site — surveying topography, views, setbacks, and zoning constraints. Working with you, we develop the project program and budget range, ending with a written scope, preliminary massing study, and a phased fee proposal. Pre-Design is a fixed flat fee with no further commitment required.
What We Produce
— Zoning & bylaw summary— Site analysis notes— Written project program— Preliminary massing sketch— Project budget range— Phased fee proposal— Go / no-go recommendation
§ 02 — Concept Design
Where the Ideas Begin.
Working from the approved program, we explore two to three distinct design concepts — floor plan arrangements, massing options, and building character. You review and select a preferred direction before we proceed to detailed development.
What We Produce
— 2–3 concept directions— Schematic floor plans— Massing studies— Concept imagery— Preliminary material direction— Client direction approval
§ 03 — Design Refinement
The Building Takes Shape.
The approved concept is developed into a fully coordinated drawing set. Floor plans, exterior elevations, building sections, and material palette are resolved so that construction documents can proceed without revisiting design decisions.
What We Produce
— Approved floor plan set— Exterior elevations (all faces)— Building sections— Roof plan— Material & finish palette— Window & door schedule draft— Structural coordination notes
§ 04 — Regulatory Approvals
Approvals That Clear the Path.
Before construction drawings proceed, all required planning and environmental approvals are secured. Depending on your site and project type, this includes Site Plan Approval or minor variance applications, Conservation Authority permits through the NBMCA, NVCA, or LSRCA, MNRF Crown land lease processing for boathouse structures, and OBC Part 8 septic system design. Resolving approvals at this stage ensures construction documents reflect approved parameters.
What We Produce
— Site Plan or zoning amendment (if required)— Conservation Authority permit (NBMCA / NVCA / LSRCA)— MNRF Crown land lease application (boathouse)— OBC Part 8 septic system design— Agency correspondence and approval letters
§ 05 — Interior Design & Selections
Every Surface, Every Detail.
Interior architecture, finishes, fixtures, and hardware are resolved in this phase. Interior elevations, ceiling plans, and a finish schedule are produced alongside millwork intent drawings, resulting in a complete interior spec package.
What We Produce
— Interior elevations— Ceiling plans— Finish schedule— Fixture & hardware selections— Millwork intent drawings— Interior spec package
§ 06 — Construction Docs
Production-Ready Drawings.
We produce a complete permit and tender drawing set, coordinating with structural and mechanical engineers. We submit to the municipality on your behalf, manage the permit review, issue the tender package, and review bids before contractor selection.
What We Produce
— Full permit drawing set— Engineering coordination— Specifications package— Permit application & submission— Tender package— Bid review & analysis— Contractor recommendation
§ 07 — Building Permit
Ready to Break Ground.
With construction documents complete, the permit drawing set is submitted to the applicable municipality for building permit review. We respond to any deficiency comments from the building department and track the permit through to issuance. Construction does not begin until the permit is in hand.
What We Produce
— Permit drawing set (stamped and signed)— Permit application submission— Response to deficiency comments— Building permit issuance
§ 08 — Build Support
Present Through Construction.
We act as your owner’s representative through construction — certifying contractor invoices, conducting site reviews, responding to RFIs, and reviewing shop drawings. At close-out, we issue an occupancy confirmation and produce as-built record drawings.
What We Produce
— Contract administration— Invoice certification— Site review reports— RFI responses— Shop drawing review— Occupancy confirmation— As-built record drawings
§ 09 — Furniture Installation
Every Piece in Its Place.
We coordinate and supervise the delivery and installation of all furniture specified during the interior design phase — managing vendor scheduling, supervising placement, and confirming everything is finished to intent before handover.
What We Produce
— Furniture installation schedule— Vendor coordination— Site supervision— Installation punch list— Final arrangement sign-off
§ 10 — Move-In
The Keys Are Yours.
We conduct a final deficiency walk with you, compile a maintenance and warranty package, and orient you to your new home — how the systems work, what to expect from the materials, and who to contact in year one.
What We Produce
— Final deficiency review— Homeowner orientation— Maintenance manual— Warranty documentation— Project close-out package
§ Start Here
Every Project Starts with Pre-Design.
The Pre-Design phase is a fixed-fee engagement that gives you everything needed to make an informed decision before any significant commitment is made. We review the site, develop the program, and provide a phased fee proposal for the full project.