Gidich + Sepulveda Architecture

See above for the partial answer.
First Stage- Zoning/ Local Code Analysis to see if the garage can be converted to another use.
Second Stage- Will need to survey the space to see what are the pre-existing conditions (Structural footings + foundations/ Insulation/ structural integrity of the garage/ existing finishes/ HVAC + MEP
Third Stage- Architect/ Designer > Client meeting to go over what the scope of work will be.
Fourth Stage- Design Development Drawings (GC and/ or other consultants can be involved in this process as well)
Fifth Stage- Final Design Approval/ Construction Documentation for Permitting Submission
Sixth Stage- Permit Submission + Approval, Issued for Construction.
Final Stage(s) - Construction Administration > Completion of Project.

‘First, make sure you have enough space – as a general rule, your loft needs to be at least 6'-8" at the highest point, usually in the center. If you do not have this head-height, do not be put off, as there may be alternative solutions, one being to lower the existing first-floor ceilings. Where head-height is at a premium, ensure that the loft company will commit to lowering the new suspended loft floor structure as much as possible (in between the existing floor joists) to capitalize on every extra inch of space. In a property with ample head-height, the possibilities are endless, and you could gain at least two extra rooms.

‘A property’s age does not pose a real issue. If the weight of the new loft-floor steel structure is designed to be distributed on the outside fabric of the existing building, then the added weight of the conversion is simply lost via these external walls. If the loft is designed to use some of the internal walls, then the structural engineers could ask the loft company to expose the foundations to make sure the internal load-bearing walls are adequate to take the additional loads. Always ask for a new steel structure design to bear onto the external/party walls of the property.

‘When designing a loft conversion, deciding to change your existing roof shape to either a dormer or mansard is often the most important decision to make. Due to planning restrictions, no alterations (apart from adding rooflights) can be made to the front elevation or any side of your property that directly overlooks a public highway. However, if you can extend within permitted development rules, a dormer window to the rear will allow you to maximize floor space, as well as be creative with the amount of glazing you incorporate into your dormers, as an example.

1. The roof space is inspected for suitability
2. An architect or surveyor will confirm suitability and create plans
3. The loft is cleared and prepped
4. Rewiring is assessed
5. New floor joists fitted
6. Floors are insulated
7. Floorboards laid
8. Rafters reinforced
9. Dormers installed (if applicable)
10. Rooflights installed
11. Staircase fitted
12. Dormers tiled and vents fitted
13. Windows fitted in dormers
14. The roof is insulated
15. Partition walls erected
16. Wall plates and first fix
17. Electrics upgraded
18. Access panels for water, electric, and eaves storage
19. Walls are plasterboarded and architrave/skirting fitted
20. Bathrooms clad and extraction fitted
21. Second fix, heating, and finishes
22. Decorating

step one - client consultation
During the programming phase, the client's needs and objectives are identified. Questions regarding the specific function(s) of the space, who will be using the space and furniture and equipment requirements will be discussed. Measurements and photos are also taken at this time.

step two - schematic design
In the schematic design phase, space planning and furniture layouts are developed. Circulation patterns and minimum clearances are considered and applied to the floor plan. Rough sketches and elevations are created, preliminary furniture and finish ideas are developed and then presented to the client for review and revision.

step three - design development
After final approval of the schematic design, the designer develops floor plans, elevations, and other related items in greater detail. Colors and finishes are refined, furniture, fabrics, and equipment are selected and cost estimates are prepared. The resulting design is presented to the client for review, revision and final approval.

step four - construction documentation
In the first phase, the specific details of the work to be completed are documented. These details include millwork specification, finish selections such as flooring and paint, lighting plans and fixture selection, plumbing location and fixture selection, and electrical layouts in regards to the total scope of work to be completed. In the second phase, bids are obtained, contractors selected, and purchase orders are issued.

step five - construction administration
This is the final stage where things are built and installed. The designer is often onsite during "installation" to ensure items are received in good condition, installed correctly, and that documents have been followed properly.

We can cater to any design style that the client desires. Co-currently we can also suggest interiors which the client(s) may gravitate towards but have our client 100% content is our primary goal.

What I (we) at GSA love most about our jobs, is that it is not a job. We genuinely love to design/ build/ document and more importantly discover new ideas/ people/ cultures through the process.

"To be in inspired is great but to INSPIRE others is what it's all about." With over 18 years experience working with other great architects/ designers; calling your own projects yours, is what drove us to start our own business.

Very simple: we are a young firm/ competitive pricing but with that, we are the best at what we do. There is a very big importance to detail and ownership. Every project we work on is as if it were our own personal project. Our goal is to not leave the client a 100% satisfied but to deliver 120% and exceed their expectations.