GBD Architects: Architecture Firm Care, Thoughtfully Deliveredin Portland

For full service — design through construction observation — most residential commissions at GBD Architects total 8–12% of construction cost. We quote it as fixed fees per phase, agreed in writing before each phase begins, so the number you sign is the number you pay.

For simple permitted work, a drafter may be enough. You hire an architect when the site is difficult, the budget matters, or the building has to perform — in this climate, that is most projects. A registered architect also carries liability for the drawings, which a drafting service does not.

We build a 3D model of your site and simulate the sun across it from winter to summer solstice. It tells us where glass is free daylight and where it is a cooling bill — before the plan is drawn. The study is included in every commission and in our fixed-fee feasibility package.

Typically 4–6 months of design and documentation, 1–2 months in permitting, and 10–14 months of construction. We give you a written schedule at the sketch phase and update it at every milestone.

Yes. We are happy to work with a builder you trust, and we can also recommend three contractors we have completed multiple projects with. Either way, we review submittals and visit site at every milestone — the drawings get built as drawn.

Roughly half the studio’s work is renovation and addition — including historic-district properties, where we handle the review-board process ourselves.

One hour at the studio, no fee and no obligation. Bring photos of the site or house, your rough budget, and your list of rooms. You leave with an honest read on feasibility, a budget band, and a written fixed-fee proposal within the week.