Site Development and Master Planning

Large scale site planning is generally the first step in determining how the transportation patterns, pedestrian circulation, service vehicle requirements, storm water systems, parking, development density, and potential building footprints interact with one another. Whether your site is one acre or 20, we have the expertise to assist you in site master planning that is functional, beautiful and economically viable. Our experience in working with governmental planning departments, developers, civil engineers, and landscape architects has given us a broad perspective to the design and approval process.

Design Feasibility Studies

A Design Feasibility Study is a practical way to approach a project where the design solution or potential outcome is not clear or obvious. You may have a good idea of what you need but are not sure whether the site, budget or existing conditions will support the outcome. The intent of a Design Feasibility Study is to provide the minimum research and design necessary to arrive at a potential design solution. It is meant to be schematic in nature, saving the details for later with the intention that the outcome may determine whether the project goes ahead, will need to take a different direction, or be significantly modified.

Full Conceptual and Architectural Design

Architectural design is the right-brained part of what we do. Long before we ever consider putting together construction blueprints, the building project must be envisioned, conceptualized and designed as a macro system comprised of independent but interrelated building systems. This is the exploratory part of the process. Ideas are tested, site relationships are formulated, circulation patterns are studied, framing systems are integrated and geometric forms are manipulated. Design drawings are meant to express the idea but stop short of providing the kind of information that will be needed for bidding and construction which will come later. This is the step in the design process where a client will really begin to understand the true nature of a design solution.

Structural Analysis and Design

Good architecture embodies the seamless integration between structural framing systems, the floor plan and the building form. As part of our architectural work, we routinely test and evolve the structural systems to maximize integration and minimize conflicts between the various building systems. Structural engineering is one of the cornerstones of good design and we are most respectful of its significance in our design process.

Construction Documents and Specifications

Construction Documents and Specifications are the meat and potatoes of our work. They are the technical drawings and specifications that define the size, nature, scope, materials, conditions, and quality of construction while serving as the basis for the construction contract between the owner and builder. Without well defined Construction Documents and Specifications, informational gaps may exist between an owners expectations and what actually gets built. We understand the importance of well defined drawings and specs so our architects are careful to document and detail the critical information needed by the contractors. We are believers that an investment in high quality construction documents will save time, money and expensive change orders during construction. Ultimately our goal is to establish a level of definition, a standard of quality and expectations that are clearly understood by all team members through the completion of construction.

Governmental Approvals

Most governmental jurisdictions require extensive planning, engineering, design, and documentation before they will approve multi-family and commercial developments. Issues such as stormwater management, parking, traffic, signage, utilities, pedestrian access, landscaping, and waste removal must all be addressed. The investment in time and money can be considerable.
Over the years we have assisted many developers, builders and owners through the regulatory and approval processes. We believe in involving governments and neighborhood groups early in the process and understand the importance of investing the needed time to research and resolve the most critical issues of the affected parties prior to public hearings. Projects that can be presented as mutually beneficial for the neighborhood as well as the developer stand a much better chance of getting approved than projects that are perceived as good for the developer only.

Assistance in Bidding and Construction Administration

Some Clients elect to competitively bid their project to multiple contractors while others prefer to negotiate a contract for construction with a single builder. Which ever route you choose, we are able to assist you with the process. In addition once your project is under construction we are able to provide on-going support including progress meetings, site inspections, shop drawing review and general availability to answer questions. We believe that a successful project should involve the architect until the finish and we will not abandon you in the process.