The Drafting & Design Process for Building a Custom Home

A Step-by-Step Guide by ENS Design Group

Designing a custom home is one of the most exciting—and important—investments you’ll ever make. At ENS Design Group, we believe the key to a successful project is transparency and collaboration. Whether you're building your forever home or a high-end investment property, understanding the design and drafting process will set the foundation for a smoother experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the phases of custom home design, typical fees by region, the types of drawings you'll receive, and clarify which drawings are provided by third-party consultants like structural and MEP engineers.

Step-by-Step:

The Drafting and Design Custom Home Design Process

1. Initial Consultation

This is where your journey begins. We meet to discuss:

• Your goals, lifestyle, and vision

• Budget and timeline

• Site and zoning conditions

2. Conceptual Design

We translate your vision into conceptual layouts. Deliverables may include:

• Rough floor plans

• Massing or 3D models

• Site layout concepts

3. Design Development

Now we refine your ideas into precise, buildable plans:

• Dimensioned floor plans

• Exterior elevations

• Roof layout

• Door and window schedules

This phase defines the structure and style of the home and prepares you for approvals and bidding.

4. Construction Documents

This is your official permit and construction-ready plan set. It includes:

• Final floor plans & elevations

• Roof and ceiling plans

• Sections, details & schedules

• Site plan (as required)

We also coordinate with licensed engineers to include structural and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) plans.

What Are the Typical Design Fees?

Fees vary based on project size, location, and scope. Here’s a breakdown of typical ranges: (prices taken from national average and do not reflect ENS Design Groups pricing structure - we're a little more budget friendly!)

Region	% of Construction Cost	Fixed Fee Estimate
California	8% – 15%	$15,000 – $60,000+
Texas	6% – 12%	$10,000 – $40,000
Florida	7% – 13%	$12,000 – $50,000
Midwest	5% – 10%	$8,000 – $30,000
Northeast	10% – 18%	$20,000 – $70,000+
Pacific Northwest	7% – 14%	$12,000 – $45,000

Note: Some designers offer hourly billing or hybrid fee structures based on project milestones.

What Types of Drawings Will You Receive?

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from our team, and what is typically outsourced:

Architectural Drawings (By ENS Design Group)

• Site Plan

• Foundation Layout

• Floor Plans

• Elevations

• Roof Layout

• Building Sections

• Window/Door Schedules

• Details

  
  

Structural Drawings (By Locally Licensed Structural Engineer)

• Foundation Plan

• Framing (floor, roof, beams)

• Structural Notes & Details

• Load Calculations (required for permit)

MEP Drawings (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)

Typically done by licensed third-party engineers or design-build subcontractors:

• Mechanical: HVAC layout, venting, equipment sizing

• Electrical: Lighting layout, outlet locations, panel schedule

• Plumbing: Fixture layout, pipe routing, drain and supply lines

Tip: In some jurisdictions, MEP drawings are required for permits. ENS Design Group coordinates with these professionals so you don’t have to.

Optional & Supplemental Drawings

Depending on your project, we may also offer or coordinate:

• Interior Design Layouts: Cabinetry, finishes, lighting plans

• Landscape Architecture

• Civil Plans: Grading, drainage, erosion control

• Energy Compliance Reports: Title 24 in California or REScheck

Working with ENS Design Group

At ensdesigngroup.com, we guide you through every step—from concept to construction. Our network of trusted structural and MEP consultants ensures your design is not only beautiful, but fully compliant and ready to build.

Email ENS Design Group (info@ensdesigngroup.com)

Ready to bring your dream home to life?

Schedule a consultation with us today.

Final Thoughts

Designing a custom home is more than picking floor plans—it's about creating a lifestyle, a legacy, and a space that reflects you. With the right team and a clear design process, you'll feel confident every step of the way.

Let's Connect

Visit ensdesigngroup.com to see our portfolio or contact us for a free discovery call.