What are you building? This decides which families are on the table at all.
A full home A cabin
How would you describe the land? Site condition shapes foundation, access and cost long before style does.
Cleared and fairly level Noticeably sloped Wooded Still choosing land
Roughly how much floor area? A comfortable range is enough — plans flex within their family.
Under 800 sq ft 800 – 1,600 sq ft 1,600 – 2,400 sq ft Over 2,400 sq ft
One story or two? Stairs are a daily decision, not a drawing detail.
One story Two stories Open to either
How many bedrooms? Count the rooms that must close a door, including a real office if you need one.
One Two Three Four or more
How many bathrooms? Full and half baths together, roughly.
One Two Three or more
Garage or workshop needs? A workshop is a planning decision, not a garage upgrade.
Neither Garage Garage and a real workshop
Should the plan be accessibility-ready? Zero-step entries and wider circulation are easiest when planned from the start.
Yes — plan for it now Not a priority
Which architectural direction? A leaning is enough; the closest alternative is always shown.
Farmhouse Ranch Modern Craftsman Industrial / barn Rustic cabin Mountain modern Alpine lodge Modern prairie
What matters most day to day? Pick up to three. These become layout priorities in your brief.
Open living space A real home office Hosting and entertaining Low maintenance Energy performance Aging in place Workshop or hobby space Guest space
How does the budget feel? A comfort band only — no sample can price a real project.
Keep it disciplined Balanced Flexible for the right plan
Anything else about the project
1 of 11 questions answered.