We love empowering our clients with our knowledge! When you're our client, we will explain every option & its' implications.

What are the typical Architectural Drawings required for Building Permits?It depends on the Scope of Work and the Project Type.  We had a list of the 20+ drawings, schedules & calcs listed here, but it made people's eyes glaze over. Humor aside, contact us, if you want the long list & what it means.

Why do small projects have to have so many drawings? What do they accomplish?
The local planning and building departments require it, to document that the project complies with all local and state codes. Paradigm Design is always on top of their game & will review your projects' local drawing requirements & do the minimum required, to save you money.

Some of the drawings listed above, I've never heard of. For example what's Title-24? What's CALgreen?
We'll explain more when we get together. Title-24 is the CA Energy Code. We now have CALgreen, the CA Green Building Code. http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/. CALgreen is the nation's first green building code.

Can I do some of the drawings myself?
Paradigm Design is unique in their services, in that they'll let the Owner provide some drawings, provided that they are qualified. Most firms won't let the Owner do that. 

What's a Builder's Set of plans vs. a Bid Set of plans?
A Builder's Set has the minimum info required to pull a Building Permit and doesn't include information about the aesthetic qualities of the building finish materials nor personal preferences.
Bid Documents provide specifications on aesthetic preferences, brands, finishes, fixtures and hardware. Owner-provided items are called out, as well. The Finish Schedules and Specifications found in "Bid Docs" are required to get "apples to apples" bids.

How much do drawings cost?
It depends, on the Scope of Work. Surprisingly, it is typically less than a realtor charges for their services! See the new FEES page.

What are other professional design costs associated with adding on or tenant improvements?
Typcially there's Structural Engineering & Title 24 Energy Calcs. Depending on the job site & existing conditions, there could be tests & reviews required by the local or state authorities. We'll explain more when we get together.