Frequently asked Q&A
1. How long is the design and build process?
The timeline of each project is based on several factors. What is the size and scope of the project? Is this a renovation or a new build? How stringent are the local jurisdiction restrictions on the site? Meaning, will there be additional permits required for variances or adjacency to wetlands or coastal water lines. In broad strokes a typical project can range from a year to a year and a half depending on its complexity. For additional info see the How section of our webpage.
2. How can we reduce the environmental impact?
Here at Oza Sabbeth whenever possible we try to renovate before building new. This approach helps recycle a buildings’ embodied energy and lesson the stress on our landfills. We also strive to source local materials and establish an order of systems based on a grid of standard building material dimensions in order to reduce waste. For more on our renovation process visit the how we renovate section of our webpage.
3. What sets Oza Sabbeth apart from its competitors?
At Oza Sabbeth, we are a team of young, energetic designers. While we follow the architectural design rules, we try not to be limited by them, and thus, no two projects are ever the same. Every project is unique to the specific design made manifest by the collaboration between our team and the client's vision. We believe our ability to understand what the client wants, followed by our ability to communicate our design sets us apart. We make each project a hallmark of the client's style and taste. We pride ourselves on our transparency and ability to keep the client at ease during the design process.
4. How many people in the team will be involved in the project and who will be my point of contact?
It depends on the size and structure of your project. For the most part, your main point of contact will be the senior architect assigned to your project. The senior architect will be leading a team of 2 or 3 other architects to whom he/she communicates your ideas. Also, both of our principals are always prepared to discuss all of the details of your design.
5. What services do you offer?
There are two essential services any reliable architecture firm provides, which are the planning and design of building spaces and overseeing the construction contracts on your behalf. Being a Design/Build firm, we secure all permits and requirements necessary to go forward with your project. We have an already established relationship with highly qualified local contractors, as well as local building inspectors and local ARB requirements. We understand our role goes much further than aesthetics and organization of the structure but also conforming with all building codes, safety requirements, and zoning issues. Once we get to the point of our construction contract, we will act as your agent, making sure the house we agreed upon gets built and negotiating with each contractor regarding the scope of their work on the project. All of this breaks into certain phases, please reference our website for further details.
6. What is and is not included in your fees?
The scope of our work is all negotiated at the beginning of the project. The level of involvement we can have is limitless. We will work with you to establish our scope during the initial project consultation.
7. How will you walk me through the process of the project? Will you showcase models or drawings?
Each phase of the process has its drawings, renderings, and other materials we can share with you, so you can easily imagine how your final design is going to look. You, having the full experience of your home before its built, is paramount to our team. We will showcase models during the process and do detailed drawings, giving you the full feeling of the house. We will also give you a thorough cost analysis, so if things stay to plan, it will minimize any revelations regarding staying within the budget. More about how we design on our webpage.
8. What type of information do you need about my needs and goals?
To begin a project, it is best to have these three things: An up-to-date survey of the site, a Program that describes your spatial requirements, and a Budget.
9. What are the common issues investors make?
We strive to work in the most efficient manner possible to get you into your new home as soon as possible. It is our job from the beginning of a project to educate our clients on all the factors that will affect a project's timeline. Each project is site specific and there is no exact formula to determine how long your design build process will take. Jurisdictions such as your local Building Department, Health Department & DEC can all have varying lead times before a Building Permit can be awarded. It is also important to note that the design and permitting process can be fluid. Your entire house’s details need not be figured out in order to get these processes started. For more info on our process see the “How . . .” section of our webpage.
10. What is your design philosophy?
At Oza Sabbeth we both design and build memorable homes. We think of the home as an instrument of shelter. We believe that the simple act of walking through a well-designed home, as it responds to the passing day and perennial seasons, should be a worthy experience in and of itself. For us, the home is an ambient environment that suffuses our lives with the essential elements for balancing and recharging.