What We Do

For over 35 years, studioMV has served the Metro New Orleans area and beyond as a full-service residential architecture and interior design firm. From new homes from scratch to renovations and additions, we work hand-in-hand with our clients throughout a curated process to provide an enjoyable, low-stress project experience. From initial ideas to final construction documents, finishes, colors, furniture and details, we are guiding you until move-in day.

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What We Do

With over 35 years of industry experience, studioMV is a full-service firm that covers all design needs for new home builds, renovations and additions. Our hands-on process provides clients with an enjoyable, low-stress design experience. From initial concepts to final contracts, finishes, color and furniture, we’re with you at every step, ensuring a design that is a cohesive thread from outside to inside.

Our Process

Our clients trust us to produce beautiful, high-end homes that combine functionality and comfort with high design. Through our co-collaborative process, we guide each client from the beginning of the architectural design process to the end of construction.

Programming

Each project starts with an initial interview meeting where we sit down with our clients to get to know them. Since building a home is such a personal process, we take our time to build a relationship and identify their needs, desires, lifestyle preferences and aesthetic taste as well. We guide the conversation asking all of the questions needed to start designing their custom home.

Schematic Design

We put pen to paper to create floorplans and elevations from the specific information gathered in our initial programming conversation. The unveiling of a hand-drawn watercolor rendering of the future home in the schematic design presentation meeting is always a hit!

Design Development

After incorporating feedback from the schematic design, the plans are ready to be taken to the next level. In design development, we dive into details and begin to produce interior elevations, lighting plans, floor pattern sheets, etc. This is where interior design services begin to be integrated as well as our team will coordinate meetings to guide you through all selections including plumbing, lighting, tiles, countertops and flooring. 

Construction Documents

The developed plans become official construction documents with all of the necessary notes, dimensions and details. We coordinate with a structural engineer to complete foundation and framing plans for a comprehensive set of plans ready to permit and construct. 

Bid Phase

Whether you need assistance finding the right contractor for the job or already have a builder in mind, we facilitate the bid process and analyze each line item of the construction cost. We take a team approach in collaborating with a trusted builder to make sure your budget needs are met.

Construction Administration

Throughout the construction process, we are visiting the job site on a consistent basis and collaborating with the contractor to answer in-field questions and ensure the faithful execution of the construction documents. Meanwhile, our interiors team is also revisiting final selections and facilitating orders so that installations are seamless and move-in day runs smoothly. 

Our Process

Our clients trust us to produce beautiful, high-end homes that combine functionality and comfort with modern design. Through our co-collaborative process, we guide each client from the beginning of the architectural design process to the end of construction.

Discovery

Each project starts with a comprehensive discovery meeting where we sit down with clients to identify their specific style, goals and space requirements. Our designers organize this information into a program that describes the project's rooms and spaces, their approximate sizes and any specific qualities the client is looking for. Laying the foundation for the design phases to follow, we also use this step to establish concepts and scope and walk clients through the entire process. This collaborative meeting allows us to understand a client's values, needs and lifestyle, resulting in a design that reflects their individuality with optimal functionality. 

Schematic Designs

Here, our team puts pen to paper bringing the client's vision to life. WE create sketches to explore design concepts, brainstorm ideas and get a general look and feel of a home's overall shape. We then present to the client and use their feedback to refine designs and concepts. Once the design direction is approved, the project's preliminary floor plans and exterior concept begin to take form and move on to further development.

Design Developments

Once the client approves the floor plan and exterior concept, we start developing the major aspects of the home. In collaboration with contractors, we guide clients as they identify their home's materials, fixtures and finishes. Once done with selections, we create a detailed design of the interior and exterior spaces, giving the client a clear understanding of the project's final look. We also provide contractors with sketches and outlines of specifications for preliminary cost estimating and potential timelines. By the end of this step, the building exterior is more fully designed, the interior layout is completed and the dimensions are finalized. 

Construction Documents

Here, our team develops the design drawings into a precise and thorough set of construction documents that include all of the details, dimensions and additional information necessary to communicate the design intent to the builder. During this step, we help clients as they specify all of the home's materials, finishes, fixtures, equipment and appliances. This information is then provided to potential contractors.

Construction Administration

during the construction process, our team takes on the construction administration role. Acting as the bridge between the contractors and the client, we visit the construction site to stay up-to-date on the build progress, answer any questions from the builder and proactively address any potential concerns. Here, it's our goal to ensure the finished project achieves your goals and expectations.

Award Winning Legacy

  • Northshore’s Best Architecture Firm, 2016
  • Northshore’s Best Architecture Firm, 2015
  • Design Master, New Orleans Homes and Lifestyles: Architectural Design, 2011
  • Vieux Carre Commission Certificate of Recognition for Renovation: 636-42 North Rampart Street, 2008
  • Renovation of the Year, Remodeling Magazine: State Street Kitchen, 1995
  • Renovation of the Year, Gambit: Koone Residence, 1991
  • Renovation of the Year, Gambit: Bruno-Vetter Residence & Voelkel Residence, 1988

studioMV in the Press

  • Modern Farmhouse Magazine: Shea Residence, Fall 2023
  • Southern Home Magazine: Boudreaux Residence, Fall 2023
  • Louisiana Life Magazine: Voelkel Residence, July 2021 – August 2021
  • Décor Magazine: Davis Residence, Fall-Winter 2012
  • Cottages and Bungalows Magazine: Owenby Residence, April 2012
  • Better Homes and Gardens: Gardner Residence, March 2010
  • House Beautiful, Home Building: Varisco Residence, May 2000 

We know that creating a home is one of the most personal aspects of your life, and our mission is to make that experience smooth, exciting and fun.

Let's Get Started!