The timeline depends on a number of variables like what sort of project, how large or small it is, its complexity and if you, the clients, make timely decisions. As a general guide, our past experience reveals that new custom homes generally take 6-9 months to design. In addition, the construction process for a new build usually takes a minimum of 14 months, and up to 24 months for large projects.  Any extra approvals, like EGLE permitting, can add additional time.  Also, keep in mind that we usually cannot immediately start working on a project when it arrives in the office.  What this all adds up to, it is best to begin thinking about your project at least 2 years before you want to move in.

There is generally a backlog of work in the office that is anywhere from a couple to 6 months long depending on workload.  We make every effort to accommodate projects as soon as possible, but we have to finish the work we already have started first!  Please reach out as soon as you start to consider a project so we can advise on current timing.

There is not really a fixed formula for this as each project has its own variables.  For architecturally significant homes, similar to what you see on this website, we would suggest general current budget ranges in 2026 are in the $600-800 per square foot.  Having said that, the “cost per square foot” model of pricing is actually a terrible tool (but one of the only ones we have at the beginning of a project) for us to use to establish budgets because there are so many unique variables to an individual project.  The complexity of the site, regional pricing fluctuations, materials, economies of scale, and any number of unique aspects of a project can drive costs up or down.  Highly custom projects or projects with complex sites can range even higher.

There are two parts to a complete budget for a project:  a construction budget and a project budget.  A construction budget generally includes the following: site development, foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, fixtures, and interior and exterior finishes. Basically, everything that goes in or on the house from the slab up to the shingles, and the labor required to put it there.  This is what the builder is typically responsible for providing.

A project budget includes all of the construction budget costs, and then adds in soft costs like architectural fees, consultants, landscaping, furniture, art, and may add in things like a dock or seawall, or other unique site elements.

We work very hard to create architecture that fits within your budget.  As architects, our best tools to provide estimates of cost are comparing to other similar recent projects.   It’s an imperfect science at best.  If the overall project costs are of critical importance to the success of your project, we strongly recommend bringing a builder on board early in the design process to assist in more accurate cost estimates.

Lucid has built rapport and established relationships with the many of the top local builders in the region and can give recommendations for your specific project. Already have a builder? That is great! We are always looking to develop new relationships with builders in the area.  We also know all the right questions to ask and can assist in interviewing and selecting the right team for your project.

The majority of our projects are completed in what we would call the “design/build” method where the builder is part of the team during at least a portion, if not all, of the design process.  We have found over the years that having a builder engaged early helps builders understand the design decisions made, what’s most important to the client,  and how a project develops from a concept to a completed design.  

Generally, yes.  Our most successful projects are brought to life through the collaboration of a team that carefully and intentionally develops all of the details and finishes of a design. 

At Lucid, we consider our clients to be active members of the design team.  The most important thing we ask for from our clients is for them to be invested in the process.  We enjoy using a hands-on process of design with our clients, letting them roll their sleeves up and get involved as much as they like.  Providing the team with timely feedback and clear decision making during the design process is a great help in moving the project forward. 

Yes. We’d love to talk to you prior, but to really kick off design work on your project, you need a site. We believe that a well designed building is site responsive, and integrated rather than interfering upon its surroundings. We study the site, its climatic factors, the natural topography, how the sun moves, and the views; even the site’s colors can help inform material selections. All of these factors help us create a structure designed to maximize its potential.

We regularly help clients evaluate sites to determine the best option for their goals.   There are many variables that can affect a site’s suitability for a project.  Zoning, setbacks, sensitive environmental areas, and deed restrictions are all informative items used to establish a buildable area. Natural features, topography, weather patterns, views, tree and landscape forms are also factors which can have an impact on a site’s suitability. 

Absolutely. We are a small firm by design so that we provide you with dedicated service. Unlike larger firms, where you meet the principal at the initial meeting and might not see him again until your project breaks ground, you get all of Lucid all the time.

Lucid specializes in developing unique solutions that are specifically designed to meet our clients needs. We have completed residences over 10,000 square feet as well as additions as small as a few hundred square feet. So, the size doesn’t matter much to us, we are really just interested in working with clients that value and are willing to invest in great design and architecture.  While our personal tastes lean more to the modern, we are design professionals, and able to execute projects in any architectural style the client desires.