Our design process provides an
armature for developing each project and is readily modified to accommodate
unique conditions. We utilize a Project Checklist to guide the project team
through the wealth of information and issues necessary to bring a project
to fruition. The Checklist is divided into six phases: each intended to
build upon the preceding in a manageable and controlled sequence.
Administrative, reporting and drawing tasks are identified as are critical
meeting dates. This strategy permits us to:
• Focus
on the issues of greatest importance to
our clients
• Opportunity
to assess decisions already made in the
course of the project
• Balance
the design, budget and schedule outlined
at the outset of the project.
• Build
upon each decision and understand the
goals of each phase.
• Realize
the ultimate goal: a great project our
clients can call their own.
Goals of the Six Project Checklist
Phases:
CONCEPT DESIGN - Establish the
Project Idea
The project criterion and design
strategy are established. Project goals including image, character,
program, budget and schedule are identified. Preliminary building and
zoning code requirements are evaluated for their impact on the project.
Through sketches and diagrams, building character and strategic
alternatives will be studied. This phase concludes with the establishment
of design alternatives, a statement of cost objectives and a schedule.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN - Scheme Selection
and Scope of Project
The concepts are developed into
alternative schemes to study design and technical alternatives for the
project. A design is selected and developed. Program and functional
relationships are finalized in plan. Selections are made for primary
materials, structure, building enclosure, lighting and mechanical systems.
Major elements will be illustrated using sketches and perspectives. The
completed schematic design documents will define the size, appearance and
scope of the work. An outside cost review will be completed at the end of
the phase.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT - Define Design
and Building Components in Detail
The design will be refined and
building components fully determined during this phase. The specifics of
constructing the project, in detail, will be addressed and finalized. All
materials, products and colors will be selected. The engineered systems for
structure, enclosure, mechanical and electrical will also be finalized. A
budget update is prepared to review changes to the scope and quality of the
work before construction documents are started.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS - Communicate
the Design Intent
The design intent is communicated to
the building industry by delineating the scope of the work in detail.
Documents are prepared to establish parameters for bidding and building the
project. Dimensioned and notated plans, sections, elevations, details and
schedules are produced for the use of the builder. Written specifications
identifying products and materials of construction. The Architect’s and
Consultant’s documents are reviewed and coordinated.
BID AND NEGOTIATION - Finding The
Builders and Getting the Building Permit
During the Bid and Negotiation Phase,
the Architect assists the Owner in obtaining bids or negotiated proposals
and in awarding and preparing contracts for construction. Clarifications
and/or modifications to the Contract Documents are issued in the form of an
Addenda to contractor. Documents are prepared for the application for
building permit.
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION -
Building It
During the Construction Phase the
Architect’s role is to facilitate completion of the project in accordance
with the intent of the design. The Architect will visit the site to observe
general conformance with the Contract Documents. The review of the shop
drawings and other product information is done to clarify the design and
construction documents and does not relieve the Contractor from compliance
with the documents. Bulletins will be prepared to clarify or
modify the scope of work. Change Orders will be reviewed and evaluated.
Applications for Payment will be reviewed and certified based upon field
observations of construction progress.
