FAQ

Q: Can you work with my builder or contractor?

Yes. Collaboration is a key part of the process. Christy Root Designs works closely with builders, contractors, and other professionals to ensure the design is executed smoothly and accurately.

Q: Do you only work on new construction projects?

No. While custom homes are a big part of the work, remodels, additions, and renovation projects are also a core service. Whether you’re starting fresh or reimagining an existing space, the same level of care and detail goes into every project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Christy Root Designs offer?

Christy Root Designs specializes in custom home design, remodels, additions, and light commercial projects. Each design is tailored to fit your lifestyle, vision, and budget, with a focus on creating functional, beautiful spaces that feel uniquely yours.

How long does it take to design a plan?

Depending on the complexity, you will see preliminary floor plans in 5-10 working days. Complete plans can be completed in as quickly as 2 weeks depending on the complexity, communication, and swift feedback.

How do you calculate the square footage of your home designs?

I calculate square footage from

the outside face of exterior wall façade. Pricing is based on price per square foot under roof which would include all porches, garages, etc.

Do you design homes in a specific style?

Not at all. Every project is fully customized to the client. Whether you prefer modern, farmhouse, traditional, or something entirely your own, the design process is centered around bringing your personal style to life.

Can I make changes to my a plan I’ve seen on a website/magazine/etc?

If you have a plan you want to modify, please contact me and I will act as a liaison between the home designer and you to help determine what steps need to be taken to purchase the rights to a plan, to have the modifications completed, or my preferred method of designing a plan just for you. Please review copyright information below. Once the rights are established, I will work out a modification estimate and we can proceed from there.

What is the design process like?

The process begins with a consultation to understand your needs, goals, and vision. From there, conceptual layouts are developed and refined until everything feels just right. Once finalized, detailed construction drawings are created to ensure your builder has everything needed to bring the design to life.

Why do I have to purchase a reproducible in order to make modifications to a plan off of the internet/magazine?

To make revisions to any plans, you must first purchase a CAD file which gives you the legal right to make changes. Please review copyright information below.

Can you work with my builder or contractor?

Yes! Collaboration is a key part of the process. Christy Root Designs works closely with builders, contractors, and other professionals to ensure the design is executed smoothly and accurately.

What is a CAD file?

A CAD file contains all of the information of one set of construction plans but in an electronic .dwg format. The CAD file is used to make major modifications or to bring a plan up to local codes by a local drafter. The CAD files can be opened in most architectural design programs and come with a copyright release allowing you to customize the plan.

Do you only work on new construction projects?

No—while custom homes are a big part of the work, remodels, additions, and renovation projects are also a core service. Whether you’re starting fresh or reimagining an existing space, the same level of care and detail goes into every project.

How long does the design process take?

Timelines can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Smaller projects may take a few weeks, while full custom home designs typically take a few months. You’ll receive a clearer timeline once the scope of work is defined.

How much do you charge for modifications?

As each home is unique, I give a written estimate for all modifications/revisions required. The cost to customize a home plan varies depending on the plan, and the types of modifications you are requesting. Costs can range from a minimum of $500 to as much as several thousand dollars depending on the complexity and types of changes.

Are you a
registered architect?

No. I attended Texas State Technical College and acquired an Associate degree in Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD.)

Click here to read more about my experience and qualifications.

Do you provide construction or just design plans?

Christy Root Designs focuses on the design phase, providing detailed, builder-ready plans. While construction services aren’t provided directly, guidance and collaboration with your builder continue throughout the project as needed.

What should I have prepared before starting?

It’s helpful to have a general idea of your budget, must-haves, and inspiration (photos, Pinterest boards, etc.). Don’t worry if you’re not fully decided—that’s part of the process, and you’ll be guided every step of the way.

Why don't you offer materials lists?

I do not offer materials lists because building code specifications vary greatly across the nation due to specific area issues including hurricane, earthquakes, heavy winds, snow loads, etc. Those local requirements may require the use of different materials.

Can you help maximize my space or lot?

Absolutely. Every design takes into account the unique characteristics of your lot, including views, natural light, and layout opportunities. The goal is to make the most of your space both inside and out.

Are mechanical and plumbing details included with the plans?

Due to the tremendous variety of climate and codes in the U.S. and worldwide, the wide selection of system and fuels, Christy Root Designs does not include any structural plans or plans for plumbing, heating or air conditioning. Local mechanical contractors usually provide these plans after consulting with the homeowner and/or builder. The schematic electrical layout on the floor plans is only a "suggested" minimum as most homeowners customize their electrical layout according to their needs and lifestyle.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy—just reach out through the contact page to schedule an initial consultation. From there, you’ll discuss your project, goals, and next steps to begin bringing your vision to life.

Are foundation
plans included?

Custom plans created by Christy Root Designs come with non-engineered slab foundations. I design for average soil and climatic conditions on a level lot. They may not meet specific state or local requirements or special site or soil variations in different conditions. With such a site or area, I recommend you retain a professional site engineer to design the foundations as required. Foundation plans should be designed per your area of the country and your soil requirements. I am happy to provide the CAD files to your builder or engineer for proper foundation design. For an additional charge, I can provide the foundation plan to your builder or engineer’s specifications.

Will my plans contain all of the information needed for my local building codes department?

Plans by Christy Root Designs are generally sufficient for obtaining a building permit in most areas. Some states might require an architectural seal to receive a building permit, you may need to retain a local Architect to review the plans and provide their seal. In addition, a site plan of your building lot showing the house footprint location is also a normal requirement. Some state and local governments may include a variety of special codes, zoning and plan sealing requirements; many are due to specific potentials such as hurricanes, earthquakes, heavy winds, snow loads and flooding, plus, other regional or local differences. In these areas, you may need to retain a local professional engineer to review the plans and possibly make additions and modifications as required. For an additional charge, I can provide the plans to your builder or engineer’s specifications.

Will my plans contain all
of the information needed
for my local building
codes department?

requirement. Some state and local governments may include a variety of special codes, zoning and plan sealing requirements; many are due to specific potentials such as hurricanes, earthquakes, heavy winds, snow loads and

flooding, plus, other regional or local differences. In these areas, you may need to retain a local professional engineer to review the plans and possibly make additions and modifications as required. For an additional charge, I can provide the plans to your builder or engineer’s specifications.

What is your pricing for your plans and services and what is included in a plan package?

Home Design:

Pricing is generally based on the square foot under roof and are estimated per job. There may be some circumstances where complexity charges would be added which would be discussed upon receiving your initial plan ideas.
For small jobs including shops, garages, gazebos, boat houses, etc pricing will be discussed upon determining complexity.
Included in all plans are elevations of the front, rear and sides of the home, dimensioned floor plans, a variety of cross-sections for 2-story plans where required, details, general specifications noted on the plan, roof plan, and non-engineered foundation plan (Please review foundation information above).

Commercial Design:

Interior build-outs are estimated per job and include the floor plan layout, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plan requirements, and basic electrical layout. Plans will be emailed to your engineer for building and energy code compliance.
Full building designs are estimated per job and include the floor plan layout, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plan requirements, and basic electrical layout as well as building elevations and parking lot layout. Plans will be emailed to your engineer for building and energy code compliance.

What is your pricing for your plans and services
and what is included in a plan package?

Home Design:

- Pricing is generally based on the square foot under roof and are estimated per job. There may be some circumstances where complexity charges would be added which would be discussed upon receiving your initial plan ideas.

- For small jobs including shops, garages, gazebos, boat houses, etc pricing will be discussed upon

determining complexity.

- Included in all plans are elevations of the front, rear and sides of the home, dimensioned floor plans, a variety of cross-sections for 2-story plans where required, details, general specifications noted on the plan, roof plan, and non-engineered foundation plan (Please review foundation information above).

Commercial Design:

- Interior build-outs are estimated per job and include the floor plan layout, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plan requirements, and basic electrical layout. Plans will be emailed to your engineer for building and energy code compliance.

- Full building designs are estimated per job and include the floor plan layout, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plan requirements, and basic electrical layout as well as building elevations and parking lot layout. Plans will be emailed to your engineer for building and energy

code compliance.

Please explain a general design process.

Read and sign Christy Root Designs’ Services Agreement

Submit non-refundable deposit as described

Gather and send the following:

Your "houzz" username, or "Follow" me so that I can review your ideas and style
Interior and exterior pictures that you like, found in magazine or on the internet.
Plans or pieces of plans that you would like to incorporate
Provide a digital survey for building set-backs noted or your dimensions to design within

First floor plan is designed:

Revisions (as many as needed) are provided per your feedback.
Total under roof square footage estimates are agreed upon.
Payment due (per contract) at written approval of the first floor plan.
Your written or email approval of first floor plan is required before proceeding to step 4.

Square footage cuts and wall movement will incur charges after this point.
Client changes are defined as any changes or square footage cuts; this does not apply to changes made to the first and second level floor plans to create the desired elevation.

Elevations and roof plan are designed along with the second floor plan:

Revisions are provided per your feedback
Payment due (per contract) at elevation approval.
Your written approval or email of second floor plan & elevations are required before proceeding to step 5

Electrical plan is designed

Revisions are provided per your feedback

Non-engineered foundation plan is designed

Final payment due (per contract) prior to delivery of final plan set

Please explain a general design process.

1. Read and sign Christy Root Designs’ Services Agreement

a. Submit non-refundable deposit as described

2. Gather and send the following:

a. Your "houzz" username, or "Follow" me so that I can review your ideas and style Interior and exterior pictures that you like, found in magazine or on the internet.

b. Plans or pieces of plans that you would like to incorporate

c. Provide a digital survey for building set-backs noted or your dimensions to design within

3. First floor plan is designed:

a. Revisions (as many as needed) are provided per your feedback.

b. Total under roof square footage estimates are agreed upon.

c. Payment due (per contract) at written approval of the first floor plan.

d. Your written or email approval of first floor plan is required before proceeding to step 4.

-Square footage cuts and wall movement will incur charges after this point.

-Client changes are defined as any changes or square footage cuts; this does not apply to changes made to the first and second level floor plans to create the desired elevation.

4. Elevations and roof plan are designed along with the second floor plan:

a. Revisions are provided per your feedback
b. Payment due (per contract) at elevation approval.
c. Your written approval or

email of second floor plan & elevations are required before proceeding to step 5

5. Electrical plan is designed
a. Revisions are provided per your feedback

6. Non-engineeredfoundation plan is designed

a. Final payment due (per contract) prior to delivery of final plan set

What methods of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, check or money order and Paypal (plus any Paypal convenience fees). I will begin design when the funds have cleared my bank.

What methods of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, check or money order and Paypal (plus any Paypal convenience fees). I will begin design when the funds have cleared my bank.

DISCLAIMER

The purchaser of this plan is responsible for compliance with all local building codes and for ensuring that the plan is correctly adapted to accommodate local site conditions. The purchaser should consult with a local architect or engineer regarding these matters. Before construction begins, the purchaser thoroughly review this plan with the contractor, verify all dimensions, and report to Christy Root Designs any errors, omissions, or questions for clarification. Before construction begins, the purchaser should verify all structural elements for the plan and site with a local engineer. The exact size, reinforcement, and depth of all concrete footings and foundations must be determined by local soil conditions and acceptable practices for construction. The bottom of all footings should extend below the frost line. Before construction begins, the purchaser or contractor should verify the design with a local engineer. The purchaser of these plans understands all risks associated with adapting the plan to local sites affected by regional variations in climate, local site conditions, design needs and building codes. Christy Root Designs may not be held responsible for adapting this plan to local site conditions, design changes, construction means, or methods, costs, workmanship, quality of materials, or equipment utilized in construction. The purchaser is granted the right to build only one structure from this plan (or modified plan). This right extends to the original purchaser only and is not transferable.

DISCLAIMER

COPYRIGHT

A Few Words about the House Plan Copyrights

In 1990, the copyright law changed to make it clearer that architectural drawings in any tangible medium or form, such as magazines, books, CD-ROMs, or the Internet are protected under copyright law. It is a misconception that it is permissible to modify a house plan from such sources. It is not! It is illegal!

All house plans sold through various websites are protected by copyright. Reproduction of these house plans, including photo copies, either in whole or in part, including any form and/or the preparation of any derivative works, for any reason without prior written permission is strictly prohibited and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, as amended. The purchase of a set of house plans in no way transfers any copyright or other ownership interest to the buyer except for a limited license to use that set of house plans for the construction of one, and only one, dwelling unit.

Similarly, the purchase of reproducible house plans (sepias, mylars, or CAD files) carries the same copyright protection as mentioned above. It is allowed to make up to a maximum of 10 copies for the construction of a single dwelling only. To use any house plans more than once, and to avoid copyright infringement, it is necessary to contact the house plan's designer to receive a release and a license for any extended usage. Whereas the purchaser of reproducible house plans is granted a license to make copies, it should be noted that making photocopies from prints is illegal.

The copyright laws and licensing of house plans for construction exist to protect all parties. It respects and supports the intellectual property of the original house plan designer. Copyright law has been reinforced over the past few years to provide for enhanced damages. Infringement could cause an award for statutory damages of up to $150,000 plus attorney fees.