Frequently Asked Questions

  • KLPOA focuses on custom residential projects (both new build and renovation). More important than the specific type of work, our mission is to promote healthy, high-performance buildings that are both beautiful and healthy. We are pleased to work with a wide variety of clients, from all walks of life, who share our vision and commitment to these principles.

    Every project is approached with a commitment to design excellence and detail, no matter the scale.

    If you have a project in mind that is not one of the above typologies we nevertheless encourage your to reach out. We'd be pleased to discuss your project and see if we might be a fit, and if not, we will be happy to provide a recommendation.

  • The Practice is based in the Washington DC area and we practice in and around the District, including Northern Virginia and Maryland, from the Tidewater to the Shenandoah.

    We are happy to work on both urban/infill projects as well as on rural projects.

    For select projects, we are available to outside of this area. If you have any questions about your specific project, please send us a message

  • At KLPOA, we believe that truly exceptional architecture is defined by more than aesthetics—it is the seamless union of wellness, precision, and design excellence. Our practice stands apart through a commitment to human wellbeing, a refined and calibrated design process, and a design sensibility rooted in timeless craft and innovation.

    For more information, please request our Investment Guide

  • The WELL Building Standard® is the world’s foremost framework for designing spaces centered on human health and wellbeing. For residential architecture, it means creating homes that are sanctuaries; filled with light, clean air, natural materials, and a sense of calm refinement.

    Led by a WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP), KLPOA brings this global standard directly into the design of every project. Each home is crafted not only for beauty and timeless design, but also as a lasting investment in your health, comfort, and lifestyle. Each design benefits from our expertise and leadership in designing for human wellbeing

    To learn more about the WELL Building Standard, visit the International WELL Building Institute at www.WELLcertified.com

  • The design process is one of the most important differentiators of architecture firms. At KLPOA we are relentless about refining our design process to get the best results for our clients and eliminate errors or surprises. This is why we place more time and effort at the beginning of the project to ensure we start off with a clear understanding of your vision as well as identify and potential risks and challenges.

    In all aspects of our design process we live by the timeless saying; "slow is smooth and smooth is fast".

    We take our time to listen to you, understand your goals, and evaluate various approaches to ensure we find the right solution for your design.

    For more information and detail about the design process, please click here.

  • The overall duration of the design process is determined by the scale, complexity, and specifics of the individual project. We will be pleased to discuss the estimated duration during your initial consultation and refine it as we prepare a proposal for your individual needs.

  • Your project proposal will include a clear and detailed fee breakdown and payment schedule. This varies depending on the specifics of your project as well as the method of payment. KLPOA practices on a fixed fee basis which may be calculated across project phase or normalized for the entire project duration.

    As a general rule, fees for residential new build work are higher than renovation work, although specific circumstances govern total fee calculations.

  • KLPOA does not provide construction or design-build services. Instead we serve as your advocate during entitlement, bidding, and construction.

    As a full-service firm, we will handle discussions with your entitlement/permitting authority, help you interview and select a contractor, review bids, ensure construction is proceeding as expected, troubleshoot any issues during the build process, suggest alternatives, verify construction fees, and continue to provide value and expertise throughout the construction process.

  • We understand that every project is not only a financial investment but also a personal one. At KLPOA budget is treated as a design parameter and our responsibility to your budget is taken extremely seriously.

    Therefore we dedicate time early in the process to align scope with financial expectations, and at key milestones, we engage independent cost estimators to ensure accuracy. This proactive approach minimizes surprises and allows for thoughtful adjustments long before construction begins.

  • KLPOA believes that the best projects always result from collaborating with like-minded partners. Depending on the project scope we will suggest and hire various consultants on your behalf to create a holistic, integrated design that exceeds expectations.

  • The first step in beginning your project is to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation. This consultation will be a focused conversation about your goals, vision, and needs and will allow the team to evaluate how best to move forward towards accomplishing your goals. It will also allow us to discuss the KLPOA process while answering any questions you may have. When you're ready, we invite you to click below and schedule a time that works for you.

Schedule a Consultation