Programming and Site Selection
Although these two (2) services are typically considered to be extra service, we provide both to our clients. Programming is working with the clients to prepare the list of project requirements; functional, spatial, aesthetic. We will also visit alternate sites with our clients to evaluate the potential of various properties.

Schematic Design
These are the first preliminary sketches done of the project. They are done after the program is taken and the site is selected. The drawings are kept deliberately simple so as not to inhibit changes. Plans are meant to begin to define areas and functions and to establish the size of the project. Elevations, if done at all, are to study massing and proportion. The other main objective of the Schematic Design is to provide the first budget outline. This outline is based on the plans and in depth discussion of the various finish, fitting and fixture options available.

– the plans and budget outlines are modified as many times as necessary to balance what the Owner wants against what the Owner wishes to spend.

Design Development
After we feel that we have a project sized and budgeted properly, we begin Design Development. The plans and elevations become more refined and we begin to discuss and select actual structural systems, windows and doors, finishes, fixtures and fittings. Schedules are made and details drawn. Specifications are written depending on which way the project is to be contracted. This is where the bulk of the architectural work is done. It is not uncommon to spend months on this phase of the project.

Contract Bidding and Negotiation
Depending on how the project is to be contracted, we assist the Owner in developing a list of qualified bidders or select a Contractor with whom to work directly. We work with the new member of our team, the Contractor, to deliver a more accurate or absolute cost. If the construction estimate based on our plans turns out to be more than we had budgeted, we work with the Owner and Contractor to modify the plans and cost to be exactly what the Owner wants them to be.

Contract Management
After a construction contract is signed, we work with the Owner and Contractor in an attempt to ensure that the project is built per the plans and specifications. We receive payment applications from the Contractor and approve payments. We make at least monthly site visits to observe construction and are “on call” to answer any questions or comments. We administer closeout and the first year’s warranty period.

Partial Services:
At their option, Owners may select any of the above phases through which to take architectural service. My desire is to tailor fit the service to the Owner’s needs. The intention of this flexibility is to provide the proper level of service required to accomplish the project while meeting the budget.