Our Process

Same Basics, Enhanced with 3D Visualization

Again as noted on our Home Page, our basic Mission is still the same: “To transform Historic Mountain Architecture into 21st Century Living, without compromising great Living Spaces”.

And the goal is still the same, as hopefully the below image illustrates and informs: To Blend & Optimize the conditions of your project to “Make Your Heart Sing”.

To be sure, the basic steps of the design process of ours and others has not changed. What has changed are the 3D tools we now use to involve and facilitate our interaction with clients in these steps to empower them. That is, to see a complete 3D picture of their project rather than being asked for approval based on showing flat 2D drawings.

The key benefits of these 3D tools are to provide reassurance for the client on the result of their investment. And, with our recent Jackson Hole projects, the Builder regularly uses the “walk- through” features of our 3D modeling of the project to ensure things get built as designed.

Vernacular Mountain Architecture BROCHURE

Browse our collection of Rustic Arts & Crafts, Logs & Timbers, and Mountain Eclectic designs. This visual resource showcases The Portfolio Group's award-winning mountain homes and our modern interpretations of classic architectural styles throughout Colorado.

Download Your Free Guide Here

Our Design-Build Process

Experience Your Home Before We Build It.

1. UNDERSTAND & ALIGN

We blend three essential elements to find your ideal design: Your Ideas (needs, tastes, lifestyle), Your Site (topography, features, views), and The Context (architectural history, surroundings, codes). This intersection creates a mountain home that truly resonates with you.

2. DESIGN & VISUALIZE

Beyond traditional 2D drawings, we create immersive 3D visualizations that let you virtually walk through your future home before construction. Clients find this intuitive and reassuring, providing confidence that your vision will be perfectly executed. Read more about our virtual reality visualization here.

3. DEVELOP & DETAIL

We create detailed working drawings for permitting and construction, with comprehensive budget information. Our dual expertise as designers and builders ensures your design vision and budget objectives align seamlessly.

4. BUILD & CRAFT

Betty and Steve remain hands-on throughout construction with frequent site visits, ensuring your home is built exactly as designed. We use our 3D models during construction to verify details, delivering the award-winning craftsmanship that defines our reputation.

Get Expert Guidance on Your Mountain Home Project

Wondering what's possible for your mountain home project? Betty and Steve are offering a free 30-minute consultation where they will listen to your ideas, provide expert feedback, and outline clear next steps for your project.

Whether you're remodeling or building new, you'll gain valuable insights from designers who have been transforming Estes Valley properties for over 26 years. Limited to just 2 sessions monthly – don't miss your opportunity.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Architectural design & post design fees

To answer your questions about our Fees, we have created two service packages as pictured below. This way, you can have a choice of costs and the services that we offer. We can provide more detailed explanations of the services included in each package upon request.

Please Note: The Architectural Design package does not include Post Design Services or other construction management services.
And: Post Design Services build upon the architectural design services completed...as pictured with the RED arrows. At an additional cost.

Service Description	Architectural Design	Post Design Consulting
First Conceptual Design
Architectural Design Refinement…as requested from First Conceptual Design
Architectural Detailing—Preliminary Exterior & Interior; Kitchen, Bath, & Other
Exterior & Interior Stages 1-3 Renderings as Described on the Home Page
Archicad generated 3D walk-throughs of Design Progress and for Permit Submission.
Structural, Plumbing, & Electrical Plans for Subcontractors
Construction Drawings for Building Permit Submission
Building Permit Consulting & Review of Builder/Subcontractors’ Contracts	Cell
Site Visits & Builder Meetings	Cell
Final Exterior Materials & Product Selections using Showroom Visits	Cell
Final Interior Design Selections…Kitchen, Bath, Floorings, etc. using Showroom Visits	Cell
Final Lighting Design and Fixture Selections using Showroom Visits	Cell
Non-installed Furnishing Selections	Cell
Service Package Cost Benchmarks	$10 Per Sq Ft	$4-5 Per Sq Ft