It's great that you want to build a foundation of friendship before expressing your feelings to someone you love. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to navigate this situation:

1. Establish a genuine friendship: Take the time to get to know the person better and build a strong friendship based on trust, mutual interests, and support. Spend time together, engage in meaningful conversations, and be there for each other.

2. Assess the reciprocation of feelings: Pay attention to how the person behaves around you and if there are any signs of potential romantic interest. This can help you gauge whether your feelings might be reciprocated or if it's more appropriate to remain friends.

3. Determine the right time and place: Choose a comfortable setting where you can have an open and honest conversation. Make sure both of you are in a relaxed state of mind and have enough time to talk without interruptions or distractions.

4. Express your feelings sincerely: When you're ready to communicate your love, be honest and straightforward. Clearly state your feelings without putting pressure on the other person to feel the same way. Emphasize that you value the friendship and that you understand if they need time to process their emotions.

5. Be prepared for any outcome: Understand that the other person might not have the same romantic feelings for you. If that happens, it's essential to respect their emotions and maintain the friendship if both of you are comfortable with it. Don't let any rejection affect your friendship negatively.

6. Give them space and time: If your feelings are not immediately reciprocated, it's important to give the person some time and space to process your confession. Respect their decision, whatever it may be, and be patient with their response.

Remember, a healthy relationship should be built on mutual feelings and consent. Furthermore, be cautious about confusing friendship with infatuation. It's essential to build a genuine friendship first to ensure a solid foundation for any potential romantic relationship.