Design Process
1) Free Project Consultation & Detailed Quote
During our initial consultation, we take the time to learn about your vision and the unique details of your project. This meeting gives you the chance to share your ideas, ask questions, and clarify your goals. We’ll walk you through the upcoming steps so you know exactly what to expect at each stage. A detailed quote outlining the project scope will be emailed to you within 24–48 hours.
2) Zoning Analysis
At this stage a review your property’s zoning requirement’s along with other site related elements will determine your building options. This information will assist you in budgeting and assessing what you are able to build if there are minor variances involved. This information will also be used to assist you in determining your building options, and will act as a starting point for the architectural site plan as required for your minor variance application (if applicable)
Committee of Adjustments Drawings for Minor Variance Application (if applicable)
We can create the drawings to contribute to your proposal when applying to the Committee of Adjustments for variances such as a site plan, exterior elevations and 3d renderings. Please note we don’t do the application process for you; we would work directly with a planner of your choosing.
3) Site Measurements & As-Built Drawings (for Additions and Interior Renovations)
Once the scope of your project is defined, we perform a thorough site measurement of the current property. This includes examining your space to capture accurate dimensions and reviewing any existing structures that could influence the design
4) Concept Design Drawings & Site Plan
Our concept design process begins by effectively communicating with our client. Obtaining a clear understanding of the client’s design objectives and criteria is a vital starting point for any project. Our systematic progression of simple concept design drawings that evolve into more elaborate and detailed drawings is achieved by means of design meetings and stages of progress drawings generated utilizing Building Information Modeling 3D software. Each step of the process involves our active listening and careful interpretation of the client’s requirements.
Masterplan Design will sit down with you and develop a detailed “Checklist” which defines your needs and objectives before commencing the design. Concept design drawings are then created to ensure that the design meets your requests for the look and feel of your house before the building permit drawings/working drawings are developed. These include conceptual floor plans and elevations of your proposed design, along with an architectural site plan stating the zoning requirements of your property.
5) Working Drawings/Building Permit Drawings (once the design drawings are approved by the client)
Working drawings are essential for ensuring a smooth and efficient construction process. They provide the detailed information needed to accurately estimate material quantities and construction costs, and they offer clear instructions for building in full compliance with the latest Ontario Building Code. These include fully detailed floor plans, elevations, building sections and construction details for pricing and building permit application purposes. These drawings also support effective communication with tradespeople by ensuring everyone is working from the same specifications. In addition, they assist with planning furniture size and placement to create functional, well-designed spaces, and they provide the building supplier with the information required to produce precise floor joist and roof truss layouts. Our structural engineer will review and stamp the plans and will also provide design liability for the building permit application.
6) Building Permit Application in the City of Ottawa (to be submitted online)
Navigating the permit application process in the City of Ottawa can feel overwhelming, but our team handles every step for you. We gather all necessary documents and submit your application to the city, staying in close contact with municipal staff throughout. Any questions or feedback from the city are addressed quickly, helping ensure a smooth and efficient path to securing your building permit.
Please note that Masterplan Design does not apply for building permit applications outside of the City of Ottawa, however we can still help you gather all the necessary documents as required by your area.