ourprocess

GE Architecture believes the process of designing one’s home or project should be positive and enjoyable. We have developed a unique process to ensure that our clients build one-of-a-kind, luxury homes and commercial properties.

Before the first meeting with a potential client (and even before we are brought on board), GE Architecture does thorough research on the site

• We believe it’s important, even in an introductory meeting, to help the client by sharing information, knowledge, and ideas
• We prepare prior to our first meeting, learning about applicable code and setbacks, and, when appropriate, we also do a site visit to understand the neighborhood and key factors (such as exposures, landscaping, orientation for most desirable views, and potential challenges)

GE Architecture spends time getting to know the clients, listening carefully, and developing a shared vision for the project

• We think it’s important to go above and beyond to learn about the client and their lifestyles and values. We want to create the ideal house to suit how the client lives, so it feels like home
• Over our 30-year history, we have spent a great deal of time thinking about what makes a room comfortable, such as the importance of ceiling heights and proportions
• We start by showing our clients examples of various home or property styles, learning what appeals to them, discussing what makes good architecture, and developing a shared language
• When the client shares their thoughts on their dream home or property, we are immediately thinking about the ideal designs for them and envisioning these designs in 3D

GE Architecture communicates regularly with clients and keeps them informed

• We believe it’s important that our clients understand every step of the process
• We make sure our clients understand our drawings and know how to read them
• We aim to eliminate potential stress points, and we keep clients involved at every juncture
• There should be no surprises involved in the process of building the home

GE Architecture works with clients to develop and guide budgets, so there are no surprises

• We educate clients on costs throughout the process, including materials and other variable costs, so that clients can make informed decisions
• Because GE Architecture’s plans are extremely detailed and we review them thoroughly with our clients, we limit the need for change orders
• Our plans are so detailed (down to material types, cabinets, paints, etc.) that they enable the builder to budget more accurately

GE Architecture’s designs are extremely detailed, ensuring the client gets their ideal home or building

• It is important to us that the builder and the client are working from the same understanding
• Our drawings are very precise, limiting the potential for mistakes during construction or costly surprises
• Our plans generally consist of 40-50 sheets with 5-6 cross-sections, showing interior views and details down to cabinet types, paint colors, and materials specifications
• No detail on the plan is arbitrarily included: if a window is there, we’ve thought about why it’s in that particular place

ourpartners

Gary Eliopoulos has over 30 years of experience in working with extended building teams, and GE Architecture believes that our relationships with builders, subcontractors, engineers, landscape designers, decorators, and other members of the team are critical to the ultimate success of a project.

Striving to be a team player, GE Architecture believes in finding creative solutions and collaborating closely with the building team. Our role extends well beyond the designs and throughout the construction process, to project completion.

As the architect, we feel that all team members are working from the same understanding, so that there are no surprises. We always provide a detailed plan for every project element, with the goal of leaving nothing to interpretation and potentially avoiding mistakes.

Over the years, 6 prominent builders have asked GE Architecture to design their homes, and we consider this to be the highest compliment.

GE Architecture always welcomes the opportunity to work with new builders and partners. Below is a list of partner types with whom we have collaborated extensively.

General Contractors, Builders & Developers

Interior Designers

Surveyors

Civil Engineers

Electrical Engineers

Traffic Engineers

Mechanical Engineers

Plumbing Engineers

Structural Engineers

Landscape & Irrigation Planners & Engineers

Environmental Designer

Soil Engineers

thingstothinkabout

Things To Think About When Working With An Architect

At GE Architecture, we have developed a list of items for our clients to consider before starting a new project and working with an architect.

Develop a realistic timeline

• Allow time for you and your architect to think through the details of your project carefully and understand that going through approval processes and obtaining permits involves many variables and takes time

Consider your budget

• Understand that a good architect should educate you on what that budget will buy and the kind of property you can build

Consider resale value of your home or property from the outset

• As an investor, you should think in terms of building value, so that your investment is profitable in the long run
• A good architect will keep this in mind

Measure the rooms in your current space

• Giving feedback on your current room dimensions gives the architect a good starting point (Are they too big? Do they feel right?)

Collect photos of properties you like

• A good architect will strive to learn about your tastes and preferences and work hard to develop a shared vision

Identify must-have features

• Identify what is important to you and your lifestyle
• Consider any special needs (home office, artist’s studio, reading room, or playrooms, or built-in storage)

Pick an architect who is a good listener and who values open communication

• You will be working very closely with your architect
• Make sure to establish a comfortable working relationship and clear lines of communication
• A good architect should welcome the opportunity to develop a good rapport, to learn about your lifestyle and tastes
• Expect to communicate regularly to keep up to date on important project details

Consider the importance of relationship between architect and builder

• Good communication between architect and builder is essential
• Choose an architect who works well with others and is a team player and problem-solver

Make sure you understand the plans and details

• The more you know, the better
• Choose an architect who communicates clearly with you — before and after the drawings are created
• The drawings (also called plans or designs) are the blueprint for your home or property, specifying all details
• Your architect should make sure you understand everything in the plans