FAQs

HOW SHOULD I BEGIN?

Start with what you know. Think about what you want to change, how you want the space to work, what you hope to spend, and when you would like to get started.

You do not need a finished plan. We can help you understand what is possible and what steps come next. Starting early can also help identify potential challenges before they become bigger problems.

WHY SHOULD I HIRE AN ARCHITECT INSTEAD OF A BUILDING DESIGNER OR BUYING STOCK PLANS?

An architect can help guide your project from the first idea through design, permitting, and construction. We look at the whole project, including your property, your needs, and the rules that apply to your site.

Stock plans are designed for general use, not for a specific person or property. You may still need to make changes to fit your lot, the way you live, the views, the slope, or local building rules. Those changes can add time and cost.

We start with you. We look at your property, what is already there, the views, the light, and how you want to use the space. This helps us create a design that fits your needs and your property, rather than trying to make a ready-made plan fit.

WHY SHOULD I HIRE PELLETIER + SCHAAR?

We believe good design starts with listening.

We take time to understand what you need, what matters to you, and how you want your space to work. Then we use our experience to turn those ideas into a design that is practical, thoughtful, and made for you.

For more than 25 years, we have worked through the many parts of a project, from design and building requirements to permitting and construction. Our goal is to make the process clear and give you a team you feel comfortable working with.

ONCE I HIRE YOU, WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?

You can expect more than a set of drawings. We guide you through the process, help you explore ideas, prepare the drawings, and stay involved as the project moves forward.

Every project is different, so the services we provide are shaped around your needs and the agreement we make with you.

Check out our process here →

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?

Every project is different, so the timeline depends on several things. The size of the project, the property, existing conditions, engineering, and permitting can all affect how long it takes.

Permits take time. Each city and county has its own review process, and some projects need additional reviews or approvals. A wetland, shoreline, steep slope, or other site condition can add weeks or months to the process.

We will give you an estimated timeline and keep you informed as the project moves forward. If something changes, we will let you know.

DO YOU PROVIDE INTERIOR DESIGN?

Yes. We can help with interior design as part of your project.

Depending on the level of help you need, this can include colors, materials, furniture, artwork, window coverings, and other details that help bring the space together.

You decide how much help you want. We provide interior design services for both homes and work spaces.

HOW DO I FIND A BUILDER? CAN YOU HELP?

Yes. We are happy to provide a list of builders we have worked with over the years.

We encourage you to meet with builders, look at their work, speak with references, and consider how comfortable you feel communicating with them. The right builder should be a good fit for both you and your project.

When helpful, we can also recommend bringing a builder into the process early. This can help you understand potential costs while the design is still flexible.

HOW MUCH DO YOUR SERVICES COST?

The cost of our services depends on your project and the services you need. There is no single price that works for every project.

Before you begin, we provide a proposal that explains what is included, the expected timeline, and our current fees and rates. We want you to understand the cost and services before making a decision.

WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS DO YOU WORK ON?

We work on a variety of projects, including new homes, remodels, renovations, and selected commercial projects.

If you are not sure whether your project is a good fit, ask us. We are happy to talk through your ideas and see how we can help.

For more information, visit our Services page.

Still have questions?

That is okay.

A first conversation is simply a chance to talk about your project, ask questions, and learn more about how we work.

You do not need drawings, and there is no pressure to make a decision.

BOOK A FIRST CONVERSATION