led with vision
A Clear Path from Inspiration to Experience
What makes the Artistic Home Process Different
I used to manage home design projects differently.
I used to manage home design the traditional way: design everything first, then bid it out.
But too often, that set the stage for miscommunication, conflict, and wildly different contractor bids.
That’s why I created the Artistic Home Process—a more collaborative, transparent, and efficient way to design and build.
By bringing builders into the process early (before the blueprints are even finished), we:
Reduce surprises during bidding
Foster long-term trust between client, builder, and architect
Create homes that are not only beautiful—but practical, buildable, and on-budget
The path to your artistic home
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1. The Feasibility & Lifestyle Commission Don't just buy the land. Validate the vision.
Buying a waterfront property in the Puget Sound is a high-stakes investment. Before we draw a single floor plan, we conduct a rigorous 360° Feasibility Commission to ensure the site can actually support the life you want to live.
We go beyond standard "zoning checks" to answer three critical questions:
1. The Regulatory Stress-Test (The "Can" We Build?) We audit the property against the complex web of Fox Island and Gig Harbor restrictions—from Critical Area Designations and Shoreline Master Programs to tribal archeological zones. We verify setbacks, utility access, and geotech stability so you aren't buying an unbuildable lot.
2. The Environmental & Solar Audit (The "Should" We Build?) A lot can be legal but still be dark or damp. We analyze the sun path, wind exposure, and topography to determine exactly how a home should sit to maximize natural light and water views while blocking noise and weather.
3. The Lifestyle & Occupant Deep-Dive (The "How" You Live) This is where we define the soul of the home. We interview you to uncover the nuances of your daily rituals—from how you entertain to the specific aging-in-place needs of your family (and the movement patterns of your pets). We ensure the land allows for the specific flow and function you require.
The Deliverable: You walk away with a Feasibility Roadmap—a document outlining the zoning envelope, the site challenges, and a preliminary conceptual strategy. It is the ultimate "Go/No-Go" tool before you close on the land or sign a construction contract.
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2. Holistic Design & Interior Integration
We do not design the 'shell' and leave the rest to you. We develop the architecture and interiors simultaneously—integrating millwork, lighting, and material palettes into the structural DNA of the home.
Using advanced 3D modeling, we allow you to walk through the space virtually before construction begins. This isn't just for 'wow' factor; it is a critical alignment tool to ensure every sightline and finish meets your expectation, eliminating expensive changes in the field.
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3. The Pre-Construction Cost Audit
We bring the builder to the table before the technical drawings are finished. This is our 'Reality Check' phase. We tendering the preliminary design to trusted general contractors to get real-market pricing.
This allows us to 'value engineer' the project on paper—adjusting details to fit your budget—rather than finding out you are over budget after the permits are issued. You move forward with a design that is not just beautiful, but buildable.
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4. Technical Documentation & Specifications
A luxury home requires more than a floor plan; it demands an instruction manual. We produce a comprehensive set of technical drawings and interior specifications that define every fixture, finish, and assembly.
By detailing 'down to the doorstop,' we reduce ambiguity for the builder. This rigorous documentation is your primary defense against 'scope creep' and contractor change orders.
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5. Regulatory Strategy & Approvals
Permitting in the Puget Sound region is often seen as a hurdle. We act as your agent with local jurisdictions, managing the specific hurdles of Shoreline Master Programs, Critical Area Designations, and Health Department reviews.
We don't just submit drawings; we advocate for the design intent, answering examiner questions directly to keep the project moving through the approval pipeline efficiently.
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6. Construction Observation & Quality Control
Construction is where the investment is realized. We remain engaged with a monthly retainer to observe the build, answer Requests for Information (RFIs), and review pay applications.
We ensure the builder interprets the plans correctly and that the quality of execution matches the design intent. We are your eyes on the job site, protecting your vision until the keys are in your hand.
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Take the first step
Start your project off right with a free 30-minute "Ask the Expert" call. In this consultation, we will:
Provide clarity on how to move forward confidently with your custom home project.
Outline the journey of our process and how it’s tailored to your needs.
Give you an actionable next step based on your specific goals and current situation.
Let’s bring your vision to life—schedule your free call today.
What People Are Saying
“Andrew has been a pleasure to work with. Knowledgeable and well versed in architecture and building codes. Very helpful and responsive to any questions or concerns. Highly recommend.”
— Bryan Rousseau, Tacoma WA Real Estate Developer
“I'm his biggest fan! Andrew crafted a beautiful and harmonious design that included everything on our wish list. He is creative, meticulous and thorough. He guided us through co-op board approvals, helped us to promptly obtain building permits and supervised a gut renovation. It was a delight working with him and I would recommend him in a heartbeat.”
— Mark Hiatt, Manhattan client
“Andrew did a wonderful job with a feasibility study on a prospective investment property. We had a tight deadline which he met and gave very thorough and helpful insight into our options on adding an ADU, the potential of splitting a lot, and the possibility of a custom addition. We felt much more confident making our final decision and highly recommend him.”
— Danielle Bellotti, Port Orchard Client
“As a real estate agent, the professionals I recommend are a direct reflection of my own standards and values. I am committed to working with experts who exemplify integrity, exceptional craftsmanship, and outstanding skill.
One of my most trusted professionals is Andrew. Time and again, he has gone above and beyond to ensure we have a clear and thorough understanding of building possibilities. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable resource in the home planning and design process.
Beyond his technical knowledge, Andrew’s innovative designs are nothing short of stunning. He has a remarkable ability to bring visions to life, transforming dreams into beautifully crafted realities. If you’re looking for a true professional who delivers exceptional results, Andrew is the one to call.”