FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What’s The Cost Of A Custom Home Design?

Do You Design Within Our Budget?

What’s required for a Building Permit and does Nauta Home Designs apply for it?

What Happens If We Don’t Like The Design Or Need Changes?

Do You Provide Service And Support After The Permit Is Issued?

What Is Your Design Expertise?

What Does The Design Process Look Like For Us?

How Do You Incorporate Our Personal Style In The Design?

What Should I Prioritize In My Home Design?

What’s The Cost Of A Custom Home Design?

At Nauta Home Designs, we evaluate every project individually and offer fixed price quotes so there are no surprises on what you pay for the permit-ready blueprints. The cost of a custom home design varies based on factors such as home type (bungalow vs. two-storey), gross floor area, site conditions, construction type, design complexity, and exterior architecture. Prices range from $5,000 to $50,000, with an average between $5,000 and $10,000 + HST. For example, a 1,000 sq. ft. storey-and-a-half home on a hillside will cost more than a 2,000 sq. ft. country bungalow on flat land.

Do You Have A BCIN License?

Our custom home designs are BCIN licensed, with final blueprints bearing our company BCIN number, licensed designer BCIN number, and signature. We are also BCIN licensed for small buildings, which are buildings up to 600 sq.m. and 3 stories or less.

Do You Design Within Our Budget?

We use our years of construction experience to maintain a general idea of what your home will cost once it’s time to build. We utilize that construction knowledge along with experience in design to maintain efficiencies in structure, layout, and finishes to ensure your home is built within budget. Additionally, we encourage our clients to collaborate closely with their contractors throughout the design phase to stay informed about current building costs, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective process from start to finish.

What Is Your Design Expertise?

At Nauta Home Designs, we specialize in various design services, including custom homes, additions/renovations, detached structures, and secondary/accessory dwelling units (SDUs/ADUs). Our experience spans a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to modern.

Custom Home Design: We create functional, balanced spaces that adhere to principles of size, shape, and scale.

Additions and Renovations: We design home expansions, second-story additions, and modern updates that blend seamlessly with your existing home.

Detached Structures: We design garages, workshops, and storage spaces that complement your home’s style.

SDUs/ADUs: We design guest suites, rental units, and home offices, maximizing space while ensuring privacy and comfort.

What’s required for a Building Permit and does Nauta Home Designs apply for it?

Nauta Home Designs does not apply for building permits as part of our standard contract but can assist for an additional fee. Clients are responsible for some aspects of the permit process.

Documents typically required for a building permit in Ontario:

Construction Blueprints, Schedule 1 Form, and EEDS – Provided by Nauta Home Designs.

HVAC Design – Prepared by a licensed HVAC designer; we can arrange this for an extra fee.

Structural Engineering – For items outside Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code; we can coordinate this for an extra fee.

Legal Grade Survey/Site Plan – Completed by an Ontario Land Surveyor or Engineer; we provide basic plans for small projects.

Pre-Engineered Wood Products – Obtained from your lumber supplier.

Septic Permit – Required for septic systems; completed by a BCIN-licensed septic designer.

We recommend discussing specific requirements with your contractor or permitting authority to ensure smooth processing.

What Is Your Design Timeline?

This is dependant on the scope and type of project you’re undertaking.

1. Custom home design and addition / renovation projects can take anywhere from 1 - 6 months.

2. Secondary Dwelling Unit conversions typically are a little quicker at anywhere between 1 - 3 months.

3. Simple Detached Garages are typically around 1 month.

What Happens If We Don’t Like The Design Or Need Changes?

At Nauta Home Designs, we offer unlimited design revisions during the design process to ensure that the final result aligns with your vision. Initially, we focus on optimizing the space and layout to achieve balance and functionality, followed by refining personal design elements. We present multiple design options to help you explore various possibilities and make informed decisions. Changes are encouraged throughout this phase, as we work collaboratively to perfect the design. Once the design is finalized, we prepare the construction blueprints and submit them for permitting. If any adjustments are needed for permits, we handle those revisions as well, ensuring a seamless process for you.

What Does The Design Process Look Like For Us?

At Nauta Home Designs, we follow a structured process to ensure your project is efficient, meets regulations, and aligns with your vision.

Complete Project Quote Form

Attend Free Initial Consultation (on-site for renovations, at our office for new homes)

Receive Quote and Deposit – Project begins upon deposit payment

Review Zoning and Site Compliance (setbacks, lot coverage)

Check for Required Approvals (e.g., septic, conservation)

Draft Initial Plans

Revise Design – Optimize space with client input

Finalize Floor Plans and Elevations

Apply for Planning Approvals (if needed, Nauta can act as your agent for an extra fee)

Finalize Design Details (finishes, layouts)

Ensure Compliance with Building Code and Cost Efficiency

Prepare Final Construction Blueprints and BCIN stamp

Send Blueprints for Permit Submission – Any deficiencies are corrected at no extra charge

This process ensures clear communication and a design that meets your needs and budget.

Do You Provide Service And Support After The Permit Is Issued?

Yes, Nauta Home Designs provides ongoing support throughout the entire construction process, even after the permit is issued. While our primary focus is on the design phase, we understand that questions may arise during the build. We are available to provide guidance and clarification to ensure the design is being followed correctly and meets your expectations. Our team works closely with contractors and project managers to address any design-related issues that may arise during construction. Additionally, if any adjustments or changes are needed after the permit is issued, we can provide revisions to the design or documentation to ensure compliance with local regulations. Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition from design to construction, offering support and expertise throughout the project.

How Do You Incorporate Our Personal Style In The Design?

At Nauta Home Designs, we prioritize listening to our clients. Understanding your unique vision, preferences, and lifestyle is at the heart of our design process. We take the time to carefully document your goals, ideas, and inspirations, often using sketches to ensure clarity and alignment with your vision. Our aim is to reflect your individuality in every aspect of the design, ensuring that the final home truly represents you. We are committed to creating a space that is a true reflection of your personal style and needs, not just a design we impose.

What Should I Prioritize In My Home Design?

Start by prioritizing functionality—each space should be efficient and comfortable. This includes thoughtful layout and design to ensure each fixture serves its purpose, like ensuring a small bathroom has adequate space for the toilet, shower, and vanity.

Next, focus on accessibility and flow. Ensure rooms are easy to navigate, with clear access to windows, doors, and storage. Hallways should be wide enough, and stairs safe. Consider mobility needs like wheelchairs or walking aids.

Finally, consider lines of sight. Design the space so it looks attractive from different angles. For example, avoid seeing bathrooms or utilitarian areas from the kitchen, and place features like fireplaces to enhance, not obstruct, scenic views.

By prioritizing functionality, accessibility, and sightlines, you'll create a practical and aesthetically pleasing home.

Get Started With A Free Initial Consultation