MENU

FAQ

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

1. Read and sign Christy Root Designs’ Services Agreement 
– Submit non-refundable deposit as described
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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
5. Electrical plan is designed
– Revisions are provided per your feedback
6. Non-engineered foundation plan is designed
– 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.

Christy Root Designs