We offer full architecture services cover the entire process of taking a project from an idea to a physical structure. Whether it’s a small or a mega big project, architects play a crucial role in shaping our built environment. The architecture services include:
Initial discussion / contract agreement
- Programming [ an added service]
- Schematic design
- Design development
- Construction documents
- Permitting & Bidding [ depending on the project execution and contract process that the client chooses]
- Construction administration
- Post occupancy evaluation [ an added service]
We highly recommend including the Programming phase before the schematic design starts, so all the information for the project is collected and vetted to move forward on a solid base.
Initial Discussion / Contract Agreement
An initial no-obligation discussion allows us to understand the aspirations for your project. We are able to take you through our general design philosophies and illustrate how these have been applied to our previous projects.
- Programing / discover and collect:
Discover and collect or deciding what to build
You and the architect discuss the requirements for the project. Where the architect collects all the appropriate information like what do you need so your project achieves the goals and reason for which it is executed, that will be the basis for the project design including Vetting your needs, wants, and budget.
Schematic Design/Rough Sketches / define and align
The architect prepares a series of rough sketches, known as schematic design, which show the general arrangement of rooms and of the site. Some architects also prepare models to help visualize the project. The owner approves these sketches before proceeding to the next phase.
Design Development/Refining the Design
The architect prepares more detailed drawings to illustrate other aspects of the proposed design. Floor plans show all the rooms in correct size and shape. In this stage materials are selected and Outline specifications are prepared listing the major materials and room finishes. The owner approves this set of drawings before proceeding to the next phase.
Construction Documents / document & execute
Once the owner has approved the design, the architect prepares detailed drawings and specifications, which the contractor will use to establish actual construction cost and build the project from. The drawings and specifications become part of the building contract.
Permitting and Bidding
- Permitting:
during this phase, the architect submits multiple drawing sets for approval from the building Department and sometimes other permits will be required making multiple submissions to each entity.
- Bidding: Hiring the Contractor
The owner selects and hires the contractor. The architect may be willing to make some recommendations. In many cases, owners choose from among several contractors they’ve asked to submit bids on the job. The architect can help you prepare bidding documents as well as invitations to bid and instructions to bidders.
Construction Administration /construct & monitor
While the contractor will physically build the project, the architect can assist the owner in making sure that the project is built according to the plans and specifications. The architect can make site visits to observe construction, review and approve the contractor’s application for payment, and generally keep the owner informed of the project’s progress. The contractor is solely responsible for construction methods, techniques, schedules and procedures.
- Project Close Out
The architect can help bring your project to a close by ensuring that it is complete and ready for use, and that the contractor is entitled to final payment
- Solutions team review – Participate in an open forum for lessons learned and general team feedback
- Client feedback review – Participate in an open forum for lessons learned and general client feedback
- Quantify results – Determine if design principles and established goals were accomplished and executed
- Awards / recognition – Determine if project is worthy of award and publication consideration
If you’d like to find out more about how we work