Home · New custom home design
New custom homes in Ohio
James Kehl Architects designs new custom houses for owners across Ohio, from the first look at the site through the construction drawings and questions from the builder during construction. James leads every project himself, as an Ohio registered architect with experience on high-end homes in New York, Los Angeles and Minneapolis.
What does designing a custom home involve?
Five stages, each ending with something you can see and approve:
- Site and program. What the land allows (zoning, setbacks, slope, views, septic and well), and what the house must hold.
- Schematic design. Plans, massing and an early look at cost, with a few directions to choose from.
- Design development. Rooms, windows, materials, interiors and details settled, with renderings.
- Construction documents. The coordinated drawing set for permit and for the builder.
- Bidding and construction. Help comparing bids, answers to the builder's questions, and site visits.
Who is this for?
Owners who have land or are buying it and want a house designed for them, and builders who want an architect's set for a client's home. Some clients want the full process; others come with a clear idea and need the drawings.
Can you design a house for land outside Columbus?
Yes. The firm works anywhere in Ohio. Most of the design work happens on calls and shared drawings, and James visits the site when it matters: at the start, and at key points during construction.
How do you keep the house within budget?
By talking about the budget at the first meeting and checking the design against it at every stage. The early cost look in schematic design is there so that decisions about size and finish are made before the drawings are detailed.
What does the builder receive?
A full set: site plan, foundation, floor plans, elevations, sections, wall sections, details, schedules for doors and windows, and framing, coordinated with any engineer the job needs. The set is drawn to the Residential Code of Ohio.
What should I have ready?
The parcel, a survey if you have one, the rooms and the feel you want, pictures of houses you like, your budget for construction, and when you hope to start.
Where do you work?
Anywhere in Ohio. The firm works most often in Central Ohio, Columbus suburbs, Northeast Ohio, Eastern Ohio and the Ohio Valley, Southwest Ohio, Northwest Ohio and Southeast Ohio.
“We have been working for over 2 years on a new home design with the principal of James Kehl Architects… it has been an absolute delight to partner together. The level of detail, skill, thoughtfulness, and oversight he brings to our project goes beyond what is required. He owns the project, and it is apparent with every detail.”
Short answers
Is James Kehl Architects a residential architect in Ohio?
Yes. James Kehl, RA, is an Ohio registered architect who designs new custom homes, additions and renovations across Ohio.
Do you work outside central Ohio?
Yes. The firm works anywhere in Ohio, remotely first, with site visits when the job needs one.
What stages does a custom home design go through?
Site and program, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and bidding and construction.