MERSHIRE is a design/build firm that provides architectural design and construction management to clients across the Greater Toronto Area. We offer each service separately, or as a package, through a structured single-contact approach that improves project efficiency, budgetary control and takes the hassle of coordinating multiple consultants away.
PLANNING &
BUDGETING
DESIGN &
PERMITS
Great design unifies practical principals and innovative ideas. We leverage these principals to create timeless structures.
CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT
Planning Process
DESIGN &
PERMITS
Great design unifies practical principals and innovative ideas. We leverage these principals to create timeless structures.
CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT
Our
Planning
Process
We bring a collaborative approach to each project.
Every project begins with assessing the existing site conditions and possible development opportunities.
This allows us to come up with a road map for the project.
Site Evaluation and Preparations
We meet to hear from you and understand your vision and goal for your future home. This is where we draw the big picture for the project and determine the project scope.
- Site visit
- Design intake meeting
- Zoning study
Concept Development
A zoning study is conducted to determine the possibilities and limitations for the new building. We also do a massing study to assess light exposure & the effect of nearby structures and natural features on the future home.
- wireframe sketch
- massing study
- sun study
Feasibility
With the information gathered in the first two steps, a high-level budget and schedule is developed to ensure the proposed development is feasible.
This budget provides a guideline in the design stage. The goal is to ensure that the project meets the budgetary requirements.
- probable budget
- adjustments to development size and features
- project roadmap
Preliminary Design
Preliminary floor plans sketches are developed in steps with your feedback and budget consideration reflected in each step.
This is a crucial step as the structure's proportion and design language take shape here.
Once the designs are satisfactory to you, we move to the next phase.
- First version of floor plans
- Concept Elevations
Zoning Approval
Every new house needs to get zoning approval from the municipality before diving into detailed design.
Depending on the size, height and characteristics of the new house, a committee of adjustment application might be necessary as well. This stage could be as short of a couple of weeks to months.
- Zoning Certificate
- Committee of adjustment application
Detailed Design
It is here that the framework for an immersive 3D design is created. This phase also aids in the perfection of the proportions of the massing of the structure.
Engineering design starts in this phase as well. We work with our engineering team to develop coordination drawings.
- engineering design coordination drawings
- final floors plans and elevations
- material selection
Permit Submission
Architectural and engineering drawing are completed and signed off for permit application. Simultaneously, we begin utility service approvals and site preparation.
- 3D model of the house
- Building permit
- Utility services
Our
Design Process
Our approach to design is driven equally by innovation & aesthetics, as well as practical principals of constructability & sustainability.
We strive to create timeless buildings of lasting value that serve and engage their residents.
Our
Build
Process
We employ cutting edge technology and construction means and methods to streamline our build process and ensure timely & on-budget delivery.
Every custom home we build starts with a detailed scope of work and itemized construction budget before construction begins.
Budgeting
Upon securing permits we will provide you with a detailed scope of work and itemized construction budget.
This budgeting process will take place 2-3 times through the planning process prior to the start of construction in order to ensure the body of work developed in the design stage is feasible at several stages.
- detailed scope of work
- itemized construction budget
Procurement & Tendering
Once your project's detailed budget is laid out, major milestones are set for the construction phase and a schedule is developed to achieve these milestones.
We determine the best means and methods of constructing your home, coordinate with trades, and begin material selection with you.
- construction schedule
- labour and material selection
- contracts
Construction
On-site production starts based on the schedule.
Through the construction process we provide you with photo, schedule, and financial updates that keep you up to date with the progress being achieved for your project.
We will also invite you to several on-site review meetings in order to confirm details, review changes required if necessary, and ensure that you are in tune with the specifics of the final product we are creating for you.
- site preparation and excavation
- construction
MERSHIRE is a design/build firm that provides architectural design and construction management to clients across the Greater Toronto Area. We offer each service separately, or as a package, through a structured single-contact approach that improves project efficiency, budgetary control and takes the hassle of coordinating multiple consultants away.
Planning Process
Planning Process
Planning Process
| 1. Site Evaluation and Preparation
We meet to hear from you and understand your vision and goal for your future home. This is where we draw the big picture for the project and determine the project scope.
| 2. Concept Development
| 3. Feasibility
Design Process
| 1. Preliminary Design
| 2. Zoning Approval
| 3. Detailed Design
| 4. Permit Submission
Construction Process
| 1. Budgeting
| 2. Procurement and Tendering
| 3. Construction
1. Initial Consultation
Complementary session we offer to our potential clients.
We meet to hear from you and understand your vision and goal for your future home. This is where we draw the big picture for the project and determine the scope.
2. Concept Development
A zoning study is conducted to determine the possibilities and limitations for the new building. We also do a massing study to assess light exposure & the effect of nearby structures and natural features on the future home.
3. Project Roadmap
4. Design Development
5. Building Permits
6. Tendering & Procurement
In this stage, we determine the best means and methods of constructing your future home, choose the contractors and begin product selection in coordination with you.
7. Construction
Demolition/construction begins. We will schedule and coordinate all site activities to make sure the project is progressing in a timely manner, meeting with you regularly as your future home takes shape.
