Contextual design is often misunderstood. Many believe it means creating a carbon copy of existing buildings to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. But this approach often leads to "cookie-cutter" structures that lack personality or fail to address a neighborhood's evolving…
Imagine walking through a peaceful, lakeside community where every detail is designed to enhance your quality of life. Carlton Landing, envisioned by renowned planner Andres Duany in 2008, is a perfect example of New Urbanism—a movement focused on creating and…
When you’re designing a custom home, every decision—from the layout to the finishes—reflects your style and lifestyle needs. It’s an exciting process. However, one often overlooked, or rather a last-minute thought, is where to put your garage. While there are…
In the world of neighborhood development, every project is an opportunity to shape a community's future. That's where a charrette comes in—a collaborative, intensive planning session where citizens and stakeholders work with developers and designers. It's not just another step…
Welcome to the world of Caribbean-inspired living, where your slice of paradise can be anywhere you want it to be. At Allison Ramsey Architects, we've carefully created our Caribbean Collection to bring the essence of island living to life, no…
In 2022, a transformation took place. In the heart of West Columbia, SC, a patch of underused land was transformed into St. Ann's Alley - a vibrant community of 34 homes, complete with a mixed-use building and a neighborhood park.…
Imagine yourself on a wide, shady veranda with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of magnolias as you sip sweet tea from a rocking chair. This isn't just a scene from a Southern novel; it's the everyday reality of Lowcountry…
One of the most beloved aspects of Southern living is the porch—a space that epitomizes relaxation, socialization, and the enjoyment of nature. Whether you envision sipping sweet tea in the afternoons, hosting lively gatherings, or simply unwinding with a good…
It’s time to have a heart-to-heart about the challenges you're facing as a small-scale developer. It can feel like you're David going up against Goliath when you look at those big companies with their deep pockets and wide reach. But…
Step onto a wide, inviting porch. Feel the gentle breeze as you sink into a rocking chair. Admire the symmetrical facade and towering columns that speak of grace and history. This is the essence of Southern architecture - a style…
As your family grows and your children enter their teenage years, your home needs to evolve. Building a custom home that caters to everyone's needs while planning for the future can be exciting yet challenging. At Allison Ramsey Architects, we…
Every year, millions of newly graduated high school students leave their parents’ homes to start their new lives as college students, and they all need housing. But in recent years, the housing market has faced significant challenges, with affordability becoming…
Are you dreaming of building your perfect home but find yourself stuck in a cycle of endless research and indecision? You're not alone. Many potential homeowners experience "analysis paralysis" when faced with the multitude of choices involved in building…
When it comes to selecting a home, one-story designs offer a unique combination of convenience, accessibility, and charm. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer just starting out, a new retiree, or looking to simplify your living situation, a one-story home…
When working with developers, we have the opportunity to create more than just houses—we can build vibrant, connected neighborhoods that promote well-being. Three key elements are pivotal in this effort: incorporating green spaces, walkable centers, and designing communal gathering areas.…
When you first start designing your dream home, you’ll quickly learn that the process involves more than just selecting interior finishings and adhering to building codes. While these aspects are undeniably important, the exterior appearance of your home—its curb appeal—plays…
Embracing the homesteading lifestyle is more than building a chicken coop and collecting rainwater – it’s about crafting a space that resonates with your lifestyle goals, comfort, and sustainability. Whether you're looking to grow a large garden, raise livestock, or…
Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) has been reviving the timeless appeal of close-knit communities and sustainable urban planning for decades. At its heart, TND is about creating neighborhoods that foster a deep sense of belonging, where everything you need is…
Tiny homes have taken the world by storm with their unique charm and appeal. The movement has captivated countless individuals' hearts and minds for many compelling reasons. Many people are drawn to the idea of living a more minimalist lifestyle,…
While bittersweet, the transition into the "empty nester" phase of life opens the door to new freedoms and opportunities. With your children embarking on their own adventures, it’s the perfect time to consider how your home can evolve or…
Morris Square Townhomes Multi-family housing has emerged as a cornerstone of the New Urbanism movement. This approach to urban planning promotes walkable and community-oriented environments, offering a stark contrast to sprawling suburbs. This trend presents many opportunities for small-scale developers…
Finding your ideal home online can often feel overwhelming. Traditional methods might make potential homeowners feel confined by limited choices and overwhelmed by complex customization processes. At Allison Ramsey Architects, we're transforming this experience. We've already made great strides with…
Incorporating New Urbanism principles can be a game-changer for small-scale developers looking to distinguish their projects and revive a more traditional neighborhood style. This urban design movement enhances community living by incorporating traditional neighborhood designs with modern lifestyle needs. In…
It’s no secret that the home design process is full of decision-making. One decision that impacts a home's overall look and functionality is where to place the garage. Traditionally, garages have been front-and-center, offering homeowners the convenience of parking their…
Study Set – The study set is a reduced size (11” x 17”) pdf file of the floor plans and elevations from the construction documents. and is very helpful to understand and see the basic design of the project. It is a useful tool to develop an initial budget with a builder. It is not a License to Build. Upon request, we will credit the purchase price back against the final purchase of the License to Build. The pdf file will typically be emailed to you on the following business day.
3D Model – The 3d model is a Sketchup model of the exterior shell of the project based on the design. The 3D model is not a license to build. It is a tool used to better understand what the exterior of the house and it’s details will look like. It is also quite useful to do color and material studies for the project. The Sketchup file and use agreement will typically be emailed to you on the following business day.
Bidding & Pricing Set – The bidding and pricing set is a pdf of the actual construction documents stamped “not for construction, for bidding purposes only”. They can be used to determine your actual cost with your builder. If after determining cost you decide to move forward, we will credit the cost of the bidding and pricing set against the final purchase of the license to build. The pdf file will typically be emailed within 3 to 5 business days.
One Time License to Build – This License/Fee entitles you to build the proposed design one time. It includes a pdf file of the construction documents for the project along with the license to build. The pdf files will typically be emailed within 3 to 5 business days.
2 year Unlimited Build License – This license fee entitles the purchaser to build as many structures as desired from the plans provided during a 2 year period from the date of purchase. After expiration, any structures built will require an additional license fee.