Remodels & Additions

A thoughtful renovation is an opportunity to reconcile an existing structure with its modern purpose. At AS Built Studio, we specialize in whole-home transformations and significant additions that honor the character of the original structure while evolving it for modern life. We embrace the unique constraints of your home’s architecture — structural challenges, foundation limits, and regulatory boundaries — as essential design inputs that lead to more intentional, high-functioning spaces.

Our Approach

The Analytical Foundation

Renovating requires a forensic level of discipline. We begin by documenting your home’s “bones”—surveying its spatial organization, structural systems, and current code compliance. By identifying non-conforming setbacks or foundation limits early, we establish a factual baseline. This ensures that every design choice is technically viable before we ever move a wall.

Purposeful Design

Custom architecture is a personal expression of how you live. Our design process is an exploration of light, volume, and spatial logic, resulting in a home uniquely tailored to your vision. Through three-dimensional modeling, we invite you to experience the architecture early, allowing for meaningful refinement long before construction begins. Whether you seek a highly bespoke masterpiece or an efficiency-led process, our design remains iterative, disciplined, and focused on long-term adaptability.

Navigating the Path

Remodels often trigger complex code thresholds or historic review requirements. We serve as your advocate through the permitting landscape of local jurisdiction, managing the intricacies of zoning, non-conformity and municipal reviews. Our goal is to demystify the bureaucracy, providing a clear and professional path toward approval.

Professional Stewardship

Construction in an existing home often reveals the unexpected. During the build phase, we act as your advocate, collaborating closely with your general contractor to resolve field conditions in real-time. We protect the integrity of the design and ensure that the transition from old to new is executed with precision and craft.

faqs

How do you approach design for an existing home?

We begin by listening to the house. Our goal is to understand its original logic so that additions and changes integrate seamlessly, enhancing the home’s character rather than competing with it.

Can I live in my home during construction?

This depends on the scope of work. While minor additions may permit occupancy, whole-home transformations or significant mechanical updates usually require temporary relocation for your comfort and safety.

What distinguishes an architect from a design-build firm?

As your architect, we provide independent oversight and work exclusively for you. Our comprehensive documentation allows you to seek competitive bids from multiple contractors, giving you full control over cost and quality.

What is the investment for architectural services?

Our fees are based on the dedicated time your project requires, billed on an hourly basis. To provide financial predictability, we offer clear high and low estimates for each phase of the project, ensuring transparency from day one.

How long does the process take?

Remodels vary wildly based on complexity. Generally, design takes three to five months, with permitting adding another four to eight months depending on the jurisdiction’s review path.

Proudly Serving

Seattle

Kirkland

Bellevue

Everett

Mercer Island

Greater Eastside

Every exceptional home begins with a conversation.

We invite you to share your vision and explore how our principled approach can bring it to life.

Phone

Email