FAQ

What is the first step?

Start with a phone call or email to schedule a Pre-Design Consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss your project’s needs, budget, and schedule. I’ll share a booklet that outlines the design and construction process, and how an architect can help.

Afterward, I provide a tailored document that outlines your project’s potential, along with preliminary construction cost estimates. This gives you a clear foundation for making informed decisions about next steps. I charge a flat fee for this consultation.

Email sini@studiokamppari.com to schedule your consultation.

What kinds of projects are a good fit for your studio?

Our niche is high-caliber small projects for design savvy clients. This includes:

  • Custom Homes

  • Luxury or High-End Homes

  • Cabins

  • Rural estates

  • Remodels

  • Tenant Improvements

  • Mixed-use

  • Small Commercial Projects

  • Hospitality

  • Private schools

This list is not exhaustive — we have even worked on houseboats — so reach out if you have a project that you think would be a good fit.

Where to you work?

We are located in Port Orchard, a short ferry ride away from Seattle.

We work with primarily with clients across Kitsap County (Poulsbo, Silverdale, Bremerton), Bainbridge Island, and Gig Harbor.

Manchester, Southworth, Olalla, and McCormick Woods are our neighbors. Occasionally, we will take on projects further afield. Kingston, Port Gamble, Hansville, Seabeck, Belfair, Indianola, Fox Island, Tacoma, Longbranch, Harstine Island, Hood Canal, Maury Island, and Vashon Island are all within an hour drive. Even further scenic places like Methow Valley in Okanogan County, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, Whidbey Island, and Port Townsend are possible.

We are licensed in the full state of Washington.

Do you design custom homes in Kitsap County and Seattle?

Yes.

What services do you offer?

We provide full architectural services for custom homes, remodels and small commercial projects, from concept to construction. This includes:

  • Design consultation

  • Site analysis

  • Feasibility studies

  • Design development

  • Construction documentation (drawings + specifications)

  • Project coordination + management

  • Permitting assistance

Whether you're starting with a napkin sketch or just a dream, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

How much will it cost?

This is one of the hardest questions to answer early on, since costs depend on design decisions, site conditions, and construction complexity.

To guide your early budget planning:

  • Basic new home construction starts around $350/sq ft

  • Custom homes typically range from $700/sq ft and up

  • High-end or complex projects can exceed $1,000/sq ft

Remodels are more variable. Cost per square foot is less reliable for renovations; instead, we look to similar past projects to estimate.

Want to learn more? Read our article on Construction Costs.

How much is your design fee?

My work is billed hourly, and a general guide is 8–12% of construction costs. Several factors affect the total design fee, including:

  • Project size and complexity

  • Number of design options explored

  • Level of documentation needed

  • Location and permitting requirements

Smaller or more custom projects often carry a higher percentage due to the fixed effort involved in every job, regardless of size.

How long will it take?

Project timelines depend on design scope, permitting, and construction. From initial meeting to moving in, you can expect:

  • Custom homes: in the realm of 12-18 months

  • Simple remodels: several months to half a year

  • High-end or complex homes: double or triple the time of a typical custom home

Permitting timelines vary significantly by jurisdiction, and actual review times often exceed those that are advertised. Construction durations can also be unpredictable, influenced by builder availability, weather conditions, and site-specific challenges.

How do I get a permit? How long does it take?

Helping you secure the right permits is a core part of what I do as your architect.

Each city or county has its own permitting rules, sometimes you need one permit while other times multiple permits from different jurisdictions.

For timelines you can expect:

  • Simple interior projects: permits can be issued in days to weeks

  • Typical single-family homes: several months to half a year

  • Complex or shoreline projects: 6 to 12+ months

Note: construction can’t begin until permits are approved.

Tip: In some cases, we can continue refining parts of the design while permits are under review.

How do I find a builder?

I can help you identify and interview potential builders. I recommend involving a builder early in the design phase for better cost feedback and to secure a construction slot.

I am happy to recommend builders I trust or to collaborate with a builder you bring to the project.

What is the difference between hiring you versus a design-build firm?

We start with design first, and then collaborate with the right builder to bring your vision to life. As your architect, we are not limited by a single builder’s go-to methods or materials. This allows the design to focus on what is best, not just what is easiest, cheapest to build or most common. We can accommodate more challenging sites, think long-term and recommend durable, low maintenance materials, and create spaces unique to you.

A design-build firm is a single company handles both the design and the construction. If the standard new homes appearing on the market align with your tastes and priorities, a design-build path may be the right fit for you.

To learn more, read our article on Architect versus Design Build

Do I need an architect?

In Washington State, all commercial projects require an architect’s or engineer’s stamp. On residential projects, it depends on the complexity, but you are not required to hire an architect for a single family home.

Even when not required, working with an architect ensures your design is code-compliant, well-documented, and thoughtfully planned. We also help you navigate the permit process and coordinate with the rest of your team.

What questions should I ask before hiring an architect?

  1. What types of projects are a good fit for your studio?
    A clear answer helps ensure your project aligns with their experience.

  2. How do you involve clients in the design process?
    Ask how decisions are made, how often you will review work together, and what kind of input is expected from you.

  3. What does your scope of services include?
    Some architects offer full-service work from concept through construction, others focus on early design or permit help only.

  4. How do you work with builders and consultants?
    Understanding whether the architect collaborates closely during construction can make a big difference in outcomes.

  5. How do you help manage budget and complexity?
    A thoughtful architect should be able to explain how design decisions are balanced with cost, constructability, and long-term value.

  6. What is your experience with permitting and local jurisdictions?
    Local knowledge can save significant time and frustration, especially for complex sites or remodels.

  7. How are fees structured?
    Ask what’s included, and what is not, and how changes are handled.

  8. What does a successful project look like to you?
    This often reveals what the architect prioritizes and if their goals align with yours.

  9. How do we know if we are a good fit?
    A good architect should be willing to say no, and explain why. Mutual alignment leads to better work and a better experience.

Who is on the team?

A typical residential project team includes:

  • Owner (you)

  • Architect (Studio Kamppari)

  • Builder (General Contractor)

I lead the design and coordinate consultants like structural engineers or septic designers. The builder oversees construction and hires subcontractors. You’ll usually hold separate contracts with both the architect and the builder.

Other specialists may include:

  • Structural engineer

  • Site surveyor

  • Landscape architect

  • Geotechnical engineer

  • Septic system designer

  • Civil or MEP engineer

  • Interior designer

  • Lighting designer

  • Acoustic consultant

I’ll help you assemble the right team for your project needs.

How does the design process work?

Every project involves thousands of decisions. I guide you through these in a structured, step-by-step process so that choices feel thoughtful — not overwhelming.

My four-phase process:

  1. Discover – Understand the problem, gather goals and inspiration

  2. Define – Clarify project vision, develop rough plans

  3. Develop – Explore detailed design solutions and technical coordination

  4. Deliver – Finalize drawings for permitting and construction

In architecture-speak, these phases correspond to:

  • Pre-Design

  • Schematic Design (SD)

  • Design Development (DD)

  • Construction Documents (CD)

  • Construction Contract Administration (CCA)

I also stay involved during construction to make sure the design is built as intended.

To learn more about the steps to design a house, see our article on Five Steps to Design a House.

What is your style?

We do not design in a fixed style. The common thread in my work is clean lines, well-proportioned spaces, natural materials, and a focus on building performance, not just how it photographs.

The Scandinavian design ethos is a good match. To learn more read our article on Why Scandinavian Design Works So Well in the Pacific Northwest.

What problems can you solve?

I specialize in aesthetically pleasing, practical solutions to complex design challenges.

For example, I can help you:

  • Maximize functionality in a small space

  • Remodel an awkward or outdated home layout

  • Integrate energy-efficient strategies and systems

  • Discover unique materials or sustainable products

  • Turn a foggy vision into a beautifully clear design plan

How to get in touch?

See our contact page to send us a message. We look forward to hearing from you.