New Home Architect

What can we do for you?

01. Pre-Design

This is where we get acquainted and dream big together. Our new home architect team collaborates with you to understand your vision, lifestyle needs, and project goals while verifying all legal requirements for your new home.

02. Design

This is where the magic happens. Combining your ideas with our design expertise, we develop multiple design concepts for your new home, exploring floor plans and creating detailed 3D renderings to bring your vision to life.

03. Permits

With your new home design finalized, we prepare comprehensive permit documents and submit them to your local jurisdiction. We can lead this entire process or work alongside you to secure all necessary approvals.

04. Construction

We provide detailed construction drawings that give builders everything needed to construct your new home. We can help vet contractors and coordinate throughout construction to ensure your project stays true to the design.

Don't just take our word for it.

Here's what our clients have to say.

"RD's team provided us with a very special creative process designing our home...If you are seriously looking to elevate your next project, work with Refine Design!"

Shy F.

Mountain Lodge

"Stone and Julia were very professional and extremely helpful in designing our project. Their patience and attention to detail were integral in configuring a change of use building."

Dustin D.

Ballard DADU

"They not only helped bring our vision to life, but offered a point of view we had not thought of. I highly recommend this duo - they are incredibly easy to work with."

Kendall F.

Gig Harbor Remodel

"No words can describe how exceptional Julia and Stone are at their work...Not only did they research extensively into the building codes but they poured so much thought into the design."

Yu Chi S.

Seattle Bathroom Remodel

"It was great working with Refine Design Architecture for our cabin expansion. They listened to our requirements, offered feedback and produced designs that fulfilled our vision"

Antonio G.

Leavenworth Cabin Addition

"Their work was on schedule, on budget, and their ideas were very helpful. If you're searching for an architectural team that can fit the bill, look no further."

James M.

Accessibility Retrofit

Have questions?
We have answers.

At Refine Design Architecture, we understand that designing a new home is a deeply personal journey with unique considerations for every family.

What is the new home design process?

Our new home architect process follows a clear path: initial consultation and feasibility study → schematic design and concept development → design development and refinement → construction documents and permitting → contractor selection and construction administration. Each phase builds thoughtfully on the previous work, ensuring your new home design evolves naturally from your initial vision into a buildable reality. We guide you through every decision point, keeping the process collaborative and transparent.

Do I need a licensed architect for my new home?

While Washington State doesn't always require a licensed architect for residential projects, working with a new home architect is highly recommended for custom homes. Licensed architects bring specialized training in design, building codes, structural systems, and construction coordination. We ensure your new home meets all regulatory requirements while maximizing design potential. The investment in professional architectural services typically pays dividends in both the building process and long-term satisfaction with your home.

What does it cost to build a new home?

New home construction costs vary significantly based on size, complexity, material selections, and site conditions. Factors like custom millwork, high-end finishes, challenging topography, and energy efficiency upgrades all influence the final investment. During our feasibility phase, we help establish realistic budget expectations based on your specific goals. Working with a new home architect early in the process helps avoid costly changes and ensures your budget aligns with your vision from the start.

How long does the new home process take?

The new home architect design phase typically takes 3-5 months, depending on project complexity and decision-making pace. Permitting can add 2-4 months, varying by jurisdiction requirements. Construction timelines range from 8-15 months for most custom homes, influenced by size, complexity, weather, and material availability. Our experienced team helps set realistic expectations and keeps your project moving efficiently through each phase while maintaining quality and attention to detail.

How much does a new home architect cost?

New home architect fees typically range from 8-15% of construction cost, varying based on project scope and complexity. We offer both percentage-based and fixed-fee structures depending on your project needs. This investment covers schematic design, design development, construction documents, permit assistance, and construction administration. When you consider the value of thoughtful design, code compliance expertise, and construction coordination, architectural services represent excellent value in creating a home that truly enhances your daily life.

Why hire Refine Design Architecture as your new home architect?

Our new home architect team brings deep expertise in creating custom homes that feel authentically yours. We specialize in choreographing light, views, and circulation to craft memorable architectural moments throughout your home. Our collaborative process ensures your lifestyle and vision drive every design decision, while our technical expertise handles complex permitting and construction coordination. The result is a thoughtfully designed new home that elevates daily living and reflects your family's unique story.