Frequently Asked Questions

This depends on the site, climate, intended use and your expectations. Stone stands out for its massing, thermal mass and lower maintenance expectations; timber for faster erection, lighter weight and a warm interior atmosphere. In most projects both are used together. There is no single correct answer without seeing your plot and requirements.

Site access and ground conditions, number of storeys and structural system, the chosen stone/timber type and level of craftsmanship, insulation and services quality, finishing materials, landscaping scope and the programme are the main cost drivers. A firm figure is therefore given once the design and scope of works are settled.

Zoning status, development conditions (floor area and coverage ratios, setbacks, storey limits), road frontage, infrastructure connections and soil characteristics are decisive. This information comes from the relevant municipality and cadastral records; a geotechnical survey is also required. We can follow this process on your behalf.

The general flow is: obtaining the zoning status, preparing architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical projects, applying to the relevant authority, then review and approval. Duration varies by municipality, completeness of the file and the nature of the site. Permit follow-up is part of our services.

The design stage usually takes from a few weeks to a few months, depending on how clear the brief is. Construction time depends on size, number of storeys, material choices and seasonal conditions. A project-specific programme is shared at contract stage.

Structural safety comes from correct calculations based on a geotechnical survey, an appropriate structural system, material quality and construction that follows the design on site. Every project is assessed for its own ground and load conditions; no blanket safety promise can be made. Our buildings are designed in accordance with the current seismic code.

Through appropriate thermal insulation in walls, roof and floors, water and vapour control layers, correct window selection and reduced thermal bridging. In snowy regions roof loads and eaves details, and in humid regions ventilated façade details, are planned specifically.

Properly dried material selection, impregnation and surface protection, detailing that sheds water away from the timber, and fire-retardant treatments where required. These measures reduce risk; no absolute resistance claim would be accurate for any material.

Stone surfaces generally need little maintenance; joints and water drainage should be checked regularly. External timber surfaces need their protective coating renewed at intervals depending on climate. Regularly maintained buildings have a long service life; no building is maintenance-free.

Turnkey scope covers the design, permits, shell, finishes, services and — if requested — landscaping items defined in the contract. Scope varies by project and is listed explicitly in the offer. Post-handover support terms are also shared in writing at contract stage.