Packman Architects

How Paul works, from the first conversation through construction

Paul Packman meets you, designs your project, and stays with it through construction. These are the steps his work follows.

Rendering of the Franklin residence: steep gables, tall chimneys and a glazed two-storey bay, Franklin, Tennessee
Rendering, the house as drawn, Franklin, TennesseeSee the project

What does "concierge architect" mean?

Paul founded Packman Architects around a concierge approach to architecture—providing each client with direct access, personal attention, and experienced guidance throughout the entire process.

In practice, it means you work with Paul directly, from the first conversation through construction.

The steps

1. First conversation

You and Paul talk through your site, your priorities, your budget, and your timing, and whether he is the right architect for the project. It is free until a scope has been developed. A phone conversation usually runs under thirty minutes; a meeting by video or in person usually runs 1 to 2 hours.

An open field of dormant grass rising to a wooded hillside under a blue sky, late autumn, Franklin, Tennessee
The site in Franklin, Tennessee, before design

2. Design

Paul leads the design himself, from first ideas to the drawings your builder prices and builds from. Decisions are made with you at each stage, before the drawings move on.

Three-dimensional design model of the Franklin residence from the pool side, stone walls, dormers and a covered porte-cochere, Franklin, Tennessee
Design model, Franklin, Tennessee
Watercolor-style rendering of the rear of the Franklin residence, stone and siding gables above a motor court, Franklin, Tennessee
Rendering, Franklin, Tennessee

3. Permitting

I work with the GC or expeditor to submit the documents to the municipality for plan check review and permitting.

4. Consultant coordination

Most custom homes and commercial projects need other specialists: a structural engineer, a civil engineer or surveyor, and sometimes mechanical, lighting, or kitchen consultants. Paul will coordinate with the client's consultants to keep their work aligned with the design.

5. Construction Administration

Packman Architects recommends involvement in the CA phase to answer any questions from the General Contractor throughout the process. Typically this phase is considered an Additional Service and not part of the Basic Architectural Services.

Stone and timber residence under construction with scaffolding, set against a wooded hillside, Franklin, Tennessee
Under construction, Franklin, Tennessee

Questions clients ask

Is the first consultation free?

Yes. There is no charge for the first conversation or the first meeting, whether by phone, video, or in person, until a scope has been developed for your project. A phone conversation usually runs under thirty minutes; a meeting by video or in person usually runs 1 to 2 hours.

How quickly will Paul reply to a request?

Paul responds to every inquiry, typically within 24 hours.

Do I need to own land before talking to an architect?

No. A conversation with an architect while you are still choosing a lot can help that decision.

Questions & Consultations

Request a consultation

Tell Paul about your site and your plans. Your note goes to him directly.

You will hear back from him within 24 hours.

The first conversation is free and takes about thirty minutes.