BUILDING IS MANKIND’S MOST HOPEFUL ENDEAVOR.

 

The act of building is an act of faith – faith in the future.  No one builds who does not believe in tomorrow.  Those who choose to build well believe in a tomorrow better than today.

All successful design depends upon three things:

• The Client’s needs

• The benefits and constraints of the site

• The desire of both Client and Architect to build well

The needs of the Client come first – their requirements for the type of space to be built, and their financial wherewithal to complete the Project.  Equally important are the Client’s intangible needs for their space – how will it feel when it’s built?  These needs are the genesis of every Project.

All sites are unique, and come with benefits as well as constraints.  The benefits of the site – solar exposure, views, location, natural features – must be worked harmoniously with its constraints, such as municipal land use regulations affecting setbacks and coverage, etc.  Respect for the site is crucial; those who fight nature (or City Hall) rarely win.  When additions or alterations are proposed, an intimate knowledge of the “needs and desires” of the existing structure is paramount.  Additions should harmonize with and improve upon the function and appearance of existing buildings.

The ultimate success of any Project depends on the desire of the Client and the Architect to build well – a serious commitment of talent, time, energy and money.  Integrity of design and quality of construction go hand-in-hand with the Project budget.  Projects that last have a timelessness about their design, combined with durability of construction.

 

PROCESS

The architectural services for most projects are accomplished in three phases:  Schematic Design, Working Drawings, and Construction Observation.

The Schematic Design phase:  the Client’s program is developed through in-depth conversation and investigation, and the site is analyzed.  If the project involves alterations and/or additions to a building, the existing conditions are thoroughly surveyed and documented.  A design is created based on these factors, which is reviewed and revised until it meets the Client’s needs.

The Working Drawings phase:  based on the approved Schematic Design, drawings and specifications are created which thoroughly define the contract for construction.  Working Drawings are a particular specialty of this office.  Proper Working Drawings are the best defense against extra costs during construction.  These drawings provide the basis for competitive bids, and meet the requirements for obtaining building permits.

The Construction Observation Phase:  during construction, the Architect monitors job progress to assure adherence to the Working Drawings.  The Architect also approves payments to contractors, and is available at any time to answer questions of the Client or the contractor.  The Architect is always there to protect against unwarranted extra costs, and make sure that the Client is getting what they are paying for.

 

  

These three phases have one purpose:  to build.  But why use an architect?

At every turn, an architect brings expertise to bear.  Aesthetics and technology -- form and function seamlessly joined.  Facility with national and local codes.  Knowledge of current costs and construction methods.  The blending of art with programmatic needs, environmental concerns, structure, power, air-conditioning and plumbing to create a beautiful whole. 

Above all, the Architect's job is to protect the interests of the Client.  An architect can design all day, but if the job isn't feasible -- constructible, affordable -- the drawings will end up in a drawer.  Retaining the services of a talented architect saves the client money, and gets the very best job built.