Our Process

The Art of Living Well: Thoughtful Design, Step by Step

At Barley|Pfeiffer, we have spent decades perfecting a workflow that bridges the gap between ambitious creative vision and the rigors of building science. We understand that for our partners in the design community and our discerning clients, the process must be as refined as the final result.

Our methodology is rooted in early-stage decision-making, ensuring that aesthetics never come at the expense of performance or comfort. No matter the project type, whether commercial or residential, these proprietary design steps allow us to see your project through to success. By following this structured path, we mitigate the unpredictability of construction and provide a clear, collaborative roadmap. By integrating your unique lifestyle expectations and design tastes with our expertise in high-performance construction, we navigate the complexities of the building process to deliver a space that exceeds expectations in both form and function.

Our Comprehensive Design Process

We believe that 90% of a building's success is determined in the first 10% of the design process. Our Comprehensive Design approach means we are your partners from the initial site walk to the final interior flourish.

• Site-Specific Planning: We "look for the sky," siting homes to preserve old-growth trees and maximize natural resources.
• Balanced Daylighting: We design for soft, glare-free natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting while protecting your interiors from the harsh sun.
• Indoor Air Quality: We prioritize your health by selecting non-toxic materials and designing for superior ventilation.
• Timeless Longevity: We design for the next 30, 40, or 50 years. By avoiding passing "styles" and focusing on durable, high-quality construction, we create homes intended to be passed down through generations.

From Vision to Execution

Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of a disciplined process and a refusal to compromise on performance. By integrating building science with sophisticated design from day one, we ensure your project is as enduring as it is beautiful. Contact our Austin studio to schedule a consultation and see how our proprietary steps lead to a superior high-performance reality.

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