WHO WE ARE

KSF Architects was formed in 2003 to offer architectural services for residential projects.  We are committed to collaborating and problem-solving with you to design exactly what you want for your home that meets your own unique requirements. We take this approach whether the project is a complete custom home or a small addition. Our goal is to help you realize your dreams to achieve the home you want within your budget. We take pride in “helping you make it home.”

We feel strongly that good design makes a difference. You can see this reflected in all of our work.

Right from the beginning of the design process, you will be working with Keith Fineberg, a licensed architect and the principal of KSF Architects. Keith is a licensed architect with a broad array of experience spanning 15 years.  His areas of focus were lighting design, historic preservation and commercial architecture before starting his own firm.  As a licensed Architect, Keith has in-depth training and experience in such fields as structural design, energy efficiency, architectural history, ergonomics, life safety, universal design, the legal aspects of construction, moisture control and a many other issues that affect the long term comfort and sustainability of your project. A rigorous process of internship, exams and references rounds out the licensing process that separates the Architect from the Designer.

Keith’s principal architectural interest has always been residential and housing design.  The son of a graduate of the Bauhaus school, Keith is drawn to the contemporary, modern style. Yet, years of Historic Preservation work have given Keith an expanded perspective of traditional and transitional styles. 

Keith is a member of The Homebuilders Association of Washtenaw County and serves as a member of The Board of Directors of the Washtenaw Remodelers Council. He is also the Chair of the Green Committee of the Southeast Michigan chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. He also serves on the Planning Commission for York Township. He has also served as the Program Coordinator of the Interior Design program at Eastern Michigan University and has taught in the program for several years.

SERVICES WE PROVIDE

KSF offers architectural services associated with the full range of residential projects. As a small firm, KSF works directly with you to develop designs that satisfy your style preferences and meet your functional needs. In helping you make it home, our focus is on showing you how to guide the design process to get what you want at a budget you can afford.

New construction – KSF will work closely with you to design your dream home. We don’t work for you; we work with you to help you realize your dreams.

Remodel/Addition – From the finished basement to the new Master Bath to the new Great Room or Kitchen, KSF will design a modification or addition to the existing home that suits your tastes and needs.

Review/modify existing plans – Many Homeowners find stock plans that are “almost perfect” but require some modifications to meet budgetary, functional or stylistic concerns. Or they fail to read closely all the disclaimers before they buy plans on the Internet. Internet plans may not meet current code in critical ways – roof designs that don’t address Midwestern snow loads or stair designs that don’t meet current size requirements. If you already bought one and need help – yes, we do that too. Our commitment is to work with you to modify the plans incorporating your ideas and suggesting changes aimed at meeting your goals.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE DESIGN PROCESS?

Regardless of the specific service provided, the design process generally follows the outline below.

Preliminary consultation – At this initial meeting, you state your goals by identifying the functions you want to add to your home, the style you admire, and the budget you have in mind. Goals might include green design or an “aging-in-place” environment. KSF works with you to establish the scope of the project at the beginning.
Programming/Field documentation – This stage refines the stated goals for the project. If the project is an addition or remodel, field measurements are recorded and photographs are taken. Site constraints, zoning, building code or other legal issues that impact the Homeowner’s goals are identified at this time.

Schematic Design – KSF develops concept sketches for you to review that offer choices among a number of design solutions. There is usually more than one way to achieve your goals and we ask you to choose from among the concepts presented to arrive at a final design that meets your requirements.

Design Development – KSF refines the design and presents more detailed drawings that develop the proposed design in greater depth. Things like structural requirements, finishes, materials and equipment are discussed at this stage. You review these and settle on a final design solution.
Construction Documents – KSF translates the Design and concept drawings into construction drawings, details and specifications that the Building Contractor will use to establish actual construction cost and to build the project.

Construction – The Building Contractor begins the building process. KSF is available to represent you to ensure that the contractor builds the house as you planned it.

Who Will Build It?

KSF Architects will help you find a Building Contractor that you feel comfortable working with. We recommend Builders that we have worked with in the past but are happy to work closely with any Builder of your choosing. KSF will remain involved through the construction process or turn the project over to the contractor (remaining available to answer questions) as you choose. The extent of KSF’s involvement is tailored to suit your needs and budget.

 

2008 KSF Architects. All Rights Reserved