ABOUT US

Precision Residential

Drafting for Builders,

Developers, and

Custom Homes

Slate Drafting is a residential architectural drafting studio based in Richmond, Virginia, specializing in permit-ready construction documentation for custom homes, builder projects, and small residential developments.

We focus on clarity, coordination, and buildability—producing technical drawings that anticipate code review, reduce construction friction, and hold up in the field. As residential drafting specialists, our work goes beyond basic drafting by resolving critical decisions on paper before they become costly problems during permitting or construction.

From early custom home design layout coordination through finalized permit sets, we support the full residential documentation process so builders, developers, and homeowners can move forward with confidence, fewer revisions, and a clearer path to execution.

A Focus on Residential Excellence

Residential design is not one part of our practice—it is the foundation of our work.

We understand how custom homes are built, how trades coordinate, and how jurisdictions review construction documents. Our plan sets are developed with the builder in mind: clear linework, well-organized sheets, consistent detailing, and information placed where it is needed—without excess or ambiguity.

This level of clarity reduces field questions, improves estimating accuracy, and helps move projects through permitting with fewer revisions.

Our Approach

Every project begins by understanding your goals, timeline, and jurisdictional requirements. From there, we develop the drawings through a structured, collaborative process:

Discovery & Scope

We review your project, discuss your workflow, and define a clear scope of work.

Drafting & Coordination

Plans, elevations, and details are developed with regular check-ins to ensure alignment with your design intent and builder preferences.

Final Plans & Permit Set

We deliver a coordinated, permit-ready drawing package prepared for submission and construction.

Residential drafting Specialists

We focus exclusively on residential drafting, allowing us to deliver deeper expertise and a more refined workflow.

Builder-First Documentation

Our custom home plan sets are organized for real-world use—making it easier to coordinate trades, estimate materials, and build efficiently.

Code-Compliant and
Permit-Ready

We work with the current Virginia Residential Code and local requirements to help streamline plan review.

Detail-Driven Work

Clean composition, thoughtful annotation, and a disciplined architectural drafting style result in concise, readable sheets.

Professional, Responsive
Experience

You receive attentive communication, predictable timelines, and a professional process from first contact to final plans.

What Sets Us Apart

Who We Work With

Slate Drafting is built for professional residential teams and serious homeowners:

Custom Home Builders who need clean, consistent documentation
Developers preparing multi-lot or phased residential projects
Homeowners undertaking larger custom homes or substantial additions
Contractors who want clear, builder-first drawings

We focus on projects that benefit from a high level of technical accuracy and coordination.

See How We Reduce Change Orders

TESTIMONIALS

Client Success Stories: Hear What Our Clients Say

We had such a great experience working with Matt. He was amazing to work with from start to finish—always quick to respond, patient with our questions, and willing to help in every way possible. He made the whole process of creating our house plans smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend!

Stephanie J.
New Kent, Virginia

I had no experience with building/renovating and it was overwhelming for a first-timer; however, Matt really made the process smoother. He walked me through each step with valuable guidance and advice. In addition to drafting and architectural plans/drawings, he's also extremely knowledgeable about all things construction. He is prompt, thorough and has fair pricing for the quality of service he provides. Communication was top tier, with quick response times to calls/emails. I highly recommend this company and will be using them again for future builds. Thanks, Matt!

LaTasha J.
Richmond, VA

I rate Slate Drafting 5 stars for excellence. Matthew is great to work with. I constantly let him know that I appreciate that he always answers the phone every time I call. He is very knowledgeable and always courteous. I would recommend Slate Drafting to anyone who needs drafting services. I plan to use Slate Drafting services for my upcoming projects. Choose Slate Drafting and you won't be disappointed.

Keith G.

Richmond, VA

Our Mission

Our mission is to elevate residential construction through clear, precise drafting that strengthens every stage of the building process. We believe that well-crafted drawings are more than a requirement for permitting—they are the foundation of a successful project. Clean documentation reduces friction, minimizes rework, and allows builders, developers, and homeowners to move forward with confidence.

We approach each project with the goal of creating drawings that support real-world decisions. This means organizing information with intention, anticipating construction challenges, and drafting with the same discipline and care that builders bring to their craft. Our work is grounded in the belief that accuracy and clarity aren’t luxuries—they’re essential tools for anyone creating a home.

At Slate Drafting, we aim to bridge the gap between design and construction by producing plans that respect both the builder’s needs and the homeowner’s vision. Through a refined process, responsive communication, and a commitment to technical excellence, we provide documentation that helps projects run smoother, permits get approved faster, and residential teams perform at their best.

Our mission is simple:
Deliver drafting that elevates the entire project—on paper, in permitting, and on site.