How we work

About

How we work

A project with LDB goes through five stages, from the first conversation to the finished building. Each commission adapts them to its scale and to what the client requires. At every stage we tell you what you receive, what you decide and how long it usually takes.

  1. 01Initial consultationWe talk through the project, review the site and define the scope.One or two sessions
  2. 02Schematic designThe spatial and functional proposal with a cost estimate.One to two months
  3. 03Construction documentsArchitecture, engineering and specifications, coordinated.Two to three months
  4. 04PermitsFrom zoning approval to the building permit.Two to six months
  5. 05Construction inspectionWeekly visits so that what is built matches what was designed.Throughout construction

What you receive and what you decide

Stage 01

Initial consultation

  • You receiveA first reading of the site and the brief, and a proposal for your case.
  • You decideThe scope of the commission and whether to start with a preliminary study.

Stage 02

Schematic design

  • You receivePlans, sections, elevations, images and a cost estimate. LDB coordinates the basic site studies in parallel.
  • You decideThe layout, the areas, the image of the building and the level of finishes.

Stage 03

Construction documents

  • You receiveDrawings, specifications and an itemised budget. Every contractor bids on the same list.
  • You decideThe final materials and systems and which contractors to invite.

Stage 04

Permits

  • You receiveThe complete permit file and follow-up on every review until the permit is granted.
  • You decideSigning the documents that fall to you as owner and covering each institution’s fees.

Stage 05

Construction inspection

  • You receiveSite log, progress reports and review of each contractor payment request.
  • You decideAny changes that arise on site and the approval of each payment based on verified progress.

Option

Preliminary study Primer paso a la medida

  • You receiveA reading of the site, a space programme, a cost estimate and the permit route, in one week.
  • You decideWhether to go ahead, with what area and what level of finishes.

For the full process of building in Costa Rica, with the studies, institutions and reference timelines, you can visit the guide to building in Costa Rica.

Let’s talk about your project

To prepare a proposal we only need the location of the site, the cadastral survey if you have it, an approximate investment amount and the date you plan to start. Write to us on WhatsApp or at [email protected]. We reply in writing in English and French.

Tell us about your projectEstimate your projectWhatsApp +506 7079-6388