Service Approach

Feasibility Study/ Master Plan

Development of a feasibility study/master plan employs a process that begins with a fact finding investigation and extends to design option exploration. It is a comprehensive process intended to identify numerous problem solving options which can be integrated into a long range plan. The intent of the study is to provide a decision making tool for the Client.

Schematic Drawings/ Design Development

The primary objective of this phase is to arrive at a feasible and clearly defined concept presented in a form that will be understood by the Client representatives. The secondary objectives are to clarify the project program, explore the most promising design solutions, and provide a reliable basis for analyzing the project cost.

Typical documentation provided at the end of this phase include: site plan, plan of each level, elevations, building section, outline specifications, and preliminary cost estimate.

Development of Detailed Budgets

We will assist with the development of a construction budget. This budget will be analyzed and updated as necessary during the schematic/ design development and construction document phases of the project.

Engineering Services

The design development phase will also result in a clear, coordinated description of all land planning and engineering aspects of the design and will include fully developed floor plans, interior and exterior elevations, reflected ceiling plans, wall and building sections, and key details. In addition, the basic structural, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems will be accurately defined.

Construction Drawing/ Bidding and Negotiation

Construction documents communicate to the Owner what the project includes, in detail. They establish the contractual obligation of the Client and each Prime Contractor to each other during the project; they lay out the responsibilities of the Architect, construction manager, or any other party administering or managing construction contracts. They communicate to the contractors the quantities, qualities, and relationships of all work required to construct the project.

During bidding and negotiation, the building industry provides its response to the construction documents. Services in this phase include the issuing of bidding documents; receiving, analyzing, and tabulation of contractors proposals; identifying the successful bidders, assisting the Client with the preparation of contractual agreements, and reviewing the construction schedule and cost breakdown.

Job Conferences/ Construction Administration

Acting as the Client's agent during this phase, the Architect is responsible for the administration of the contracts with various prime contractors.

Responsibilities include attending and conducting job conferences, interpreting the contract documents, establishing standards of acceptability, judging the performance of the contractors, issuing certificates authorizing payments to the contractors, periodically observing construction to determine progress and quality, and informing the Client of the status of the project.

Project Results

The anticipated project results in the successful response to the project objective - the completed construction of a facility designed to accommodate the needs and desires of the Client in an efficient and effective manner.