Our Approach
Every project is different, but our way of thinking stays the same.
Schematic Design
Every project begins with a deep dive into the site and a clear understanding of the client’s vision. We start by visiting the location to assess its landscape, context, and overall environment. To complement this, we provide our clients with a thoughtfully designed questionnaire that helps us understand how they live, how they plan to use the space, and their personal routines—from dining and resting to entertaining and relaxing.
​
At this stage, we also define essential parameters such as zoning and code requirements, budget expectations, and any structural or site limitations.
​
With this foundational information, we analyze the site conditions and begin developing conceptual drawings that align the client’s goals with our design sensibilities. This phase includes collaborative discussions around inspiration imagery to better understand the client’s preferences and guide the aesthetic direction moving forward.
From these early conversations, we develop a range of conceptual design options intended to spark dialogue and gather meaningful feedback. This collaborative exploration helps us refine the direction and better align with the client’s vision.
During the schematic design phase, we typically evaluate multiple approaches, focusing on big-picture ideas rather than fine details. The goal is to identify the right design concept — one that captures the essence of the project — before moving into more detailed development.
Design Development
​​During the Design Development phase, the concept established in the schematic stage is further refined as the building’s structure and materiality begin to take shape. Client and architect collaboration continues throughout this process, ensuring that spaces, materials, and overall design elements are thoughtfully developed and cohesively integrated.
This phase also involves deeper coordination with consultants, including structural and mechanical engineers. For more complex projects, additional specialty consultants may be brought on as needed. By the end of Design Development, all key building parameters—such as plans, elevations, and sections—are defined, along with how the structure and interior spaces interact with the site, landscape, and surrounding environment.
If special approvals are required from the Planning Department, local municipality, or homeowners association (HOA), this is the stage where necessary documentation—such as drawings, models, and renderings—are finalized and submitted for review.
Construction Documents
This phase is the most detailed and technical stage of the architectural process. Here, the design is translated into a comprehensive set of Construction Documents—drawings, specifications, and details that clearly communicate every aspect of the project to municipalities, builders, consultants, and the client.
Client involvement at this stage often includes final decisions on materials, fixtures, window selections, and review of layouts such as lighting and electrical. The primary goal is to produce a coordinated, code-compliant drawing set that supports permit approval, accurate cost estimating, and seamless execution during construction.
Permitting & Bidding
During this phase, we submit the finalized Construction Documents to the local municipality for permit review. Simultaneously, the drawings are shared with pre-selected contractors for bidding.
We maintain active communication with both the permitting authorities and bidding contractors, addressing any questions or clarifications to keep the process moving smoothly.
As bids are received, we organize and review them with the client, helping to evaluate each proposal and guide the contractor selection. Once a contractor is chosen, we assist the client in negotiating and finalizing the construction agreement.
Construction Administration
​
Once construction begins, it’s the contractor’s responsibility to carry out the work, but ongoing architectural oversight is essential to ensure the design is executed as intended and the project reaches its full potential.
We stay actively involved throughout construction, conducting regular site visits to review progress, provide guidance to subcontractors, and ensure key details and design intent are properly implemented. We also hold consistent Owner–Architect–Contractor (OAC) meetings to facilitate clear, open communication and resolve any issues that arise.
Our hands-on involvement during construction helps maintain quality, align execution with the vision, and ensure a smooth path to project completion.
At MØ Studio, we value close, collaborative relationships with our clients and welcome their feedback throughout the process. We also recognize the importance of synergy between all trades and consultants involved in bringing a project to life.
Our strength lies in blending a client’s vision with the technical expertise required to create spaces that are not only functional, but full of heart and soul.