Feasibility Study

A feasibility study is a quick look at a particular piece of property to determine if it can accommodate the house size and features desired by the owner. This study typically includes the following elements: Investigation of Existing Conditions

We begin by scheduling a site meeting with the prospective owners to document existing conditions with measurements and pictures, and to get an idea of what is ultimately desired in size, scale, and style. We then research the site, identifying zoning restrictions imposed by the property’s governing jurisdiction, including setbacks, height limits, buildable area, maximum lot coverage, and, if applicable, maximum Floor Area Ratio.

Massing Drawings

From the initial meeting and zoning investigation, we develop a simple concept for the house, based on the owner’s goals. We present our findings with a series of drawings, including: a site plan, showing how the house sits on its site, in compliance with all the imposed restrictions; floor plans, showing rough room sizes and arrangements; exterior elevations, demonstrating what the house could look like from the outside; and a cross section through the house, revealing the volumes created on the inside, while conforming to height limits.

Alternative Design Ideas

Often during the design we have more than one idea for how the house might best function in plan, or look in elevation, or sit on its site. In these cases we include alternatives as appropriate.

The feasibility study is intended to answer the question, “Can I do what I want to do on this piece of property?” It is often the starting point of the design process, but its goal is really to give the quick, reliable information needed to make informed real estate decisions.

Gelotte Hommas Architecture can perform a feasibility study for you. Please contact us at 425.828.3081 or email us at info@gelottehommas.com.