INTRO
The benefits of our Design-Build approach are many. Our clients appreciate our "single point of responsibility". For clients building their dream house, the ability to work with one team of professionals through our Design-Build process is very desirable.
Design-Build allows for better control of budgets which saves money; streamlined construction which saves time, and a single point of responsibility which makes for better communication. Design-Build can result in a more enjoyable construction process - we eliminate the inevitable adversarial relationship between the builder and architect, and put everyone on the same team.
OUR PROCESS
Our Design Methodology: The Plan of Work (a checklist system)
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:
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.
CONFIRMING FINAL COSTS AND PROPOSALS FROM SUPPLIERS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS, SECURING METODS OF FINANCING
Finding The Builders and Getting the Building Permit during the final costs phase, the Design / Build Team assists the Owner in obtaining final pricing prior to 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, and final application for lending institution.
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION - Building It
During the Construction Phase the Architect’s/Builders 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 facilitates compliance with the documents. Change Orders and written estimates 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, and lending institution’s requirements.