Steps from ideation to construction
Since we undertake both design and construction, we assume full responsibility on both fronts and our clients never end up stuck between a rock and a hard place, between the designer and the builder. Our design and construction teams benefit continuously from a feedback loop that enables us to opt for optimum architectural choices with feasibility and construction costs in mind.
1 Initial evaluation
The getting acquainted meeting
During the initial meeting with one of our sales reps, we listen as you share your vision of the project. Next, we present our architecture and construction services and introduce you to our team. This first meeting also allows us to work out a preliminary feasibility budget for your project and inform you of the upcoming steps. This meeting is free of charge.
2 Listening and project framing
Listening to one another
We finalize a design agreement together and a designer is assigned to your project, then your dream will begin to take shape! Our holistic approach to the project begins even before the plans are drawn: inspirational photos are exchanged; a design questionnaire clarifies your needs, desires and budget, followed by a building site visit and topographical survey. This enables us to design a house that reflects your image while also engaging in synergy with its environment (assessment of the prevailing winds, which trees to conserve or to clear, views to be preferred and selection of the building’s footprint).
3 Draft plans and estimates
Dreaming and creating
Following the site visit, we update the pre-feasibility study to clarify the general design parameters, considering the specifics of your plot and our initial discussions while again validating the preliminary budget. We begin the conceptual draft drawings, having established an approximate number of square feet and an architectural inclination for your project. Several draft plans will follow, along with a clearly detailed budget calculated by our estimation department.
4 Quote plans, finishing component choices, estimates and permits
Detailing
When we arrive at your preferred draft plan, we draw up the detailed plans and finalize the specifications and estimates for quote submissions and construction permits. We oversee contracting of a surveyor to provide the site plan used to submit the building permit application to the municipality. We also provide you with a list of finishing components to shop for, along with the budget for these items and a list of recommended suppliers. Should additional studies be required, a structural engineer or other professionals are mandated.
5 Quotes
Finalizing the total
We solicit quotes from our suppliers and sub-contractors, and estimate our project costs. Then, we prepare a quote to submit to you, and you can meet your project manager.
6 Construction contract and building site planning
Planning
We conclude the construction contract together. You will finalize (if necessary) project financing with your financial institution and your project manager will prepare the building site in close collaboration with you. This includes: ordering of the structure, door and windows and other components, and reservation of sub-contractors and on-site teams.
7 Construction
Building begins
Finally it’s time for the proverbial first turn of the shovel: work will commence with deforestation, along with construction of the access road and infrastructure such as wells and the wastewater treatment system. Planning, quality execution and communication are our three top priorities. During the construction phase, you will meet (either in person or via video conference) your project manager on a weekly basis to ensure regular monitoring of your budget and to inform you of the progress of the work.
8 Quality control
Verification at every step
Throughout the project, quality control is ensured by our site foreman, by your designer and by your project manager, but also with the numerous inspections carried out by the municipal inspector, the CNESST, the CCQ, the GCR and the representatives of Novoclimat and LEED. Once your house is built, before delivery to you, a detailed inspection takes place with you and your project manager. Any element to be completed or corrected is then noted on the receipt form.
9 Inspection and taking possession
Yours to enjoy!
Welcome home! We hand over the keys for you to enjoy the well-being provided by your customized house, thoroughly considered and built with care. Then, six months to a year after the project concludes, we contact you to take stock of your experience and confirm that your house meets your expectations. Your comments are passed on to the team to ensure that we continuously improve.
For Your Health and the Environment
For Your Health and the Environment
An eco-friendly UrbanÉco home is more than a home : it’s a lifestyle.
It’s to be warm and cozy every winter when the temperature hits -20 degrees with little heating on because of our airtight house shell and superior insulation, yet still be comfortable in the summer thanks to our bioclimatic design. It’s to sleep through Sunday morning when your neighbor mows the lawn, thanks to superior soundproofing qualities. It’s to cut down up to half of your heating and electricity bill thanks to a solar passive design and triple fenestration. It’s a smart investment as your home will be built with care and noble and durable materials that require little maintenance.