INTRODUCTION: DESIGN SERVICES

  • Flowchart illustrating the roles involved in architecture projects, including Client, Landlord, Consulting Engineers, Architect, Local Authority, General Contractor, and Client, with a central note on the coordination and services required by architects.

    Introduction: Design Services

    Design and construction are complex, but our process helps streamline your project. Most building codes require a licensed architect or engineer unless exempted by the local authority. Each project requires coordination, and scope and fees depend on the project and client needs.

  • A man wearing a black beanie, glasses, and a necklace sits at a wooden desk with various engineering or architectural drawings, tools, and stationery. The desk has a black lamp, a calculator, a ruler, scissors, a tape measure, a green eraser, and a container filled with colored pens. There is a window with trees outside, and sunlight streams into the room, illuminating the workspace.

    How we can help:

    • Scan, review, and assess building conditions.

    • Provide schematic site plans, floor plans, elevations.

    • Create 3-D BIM visuals for the project.

    • Prepare construction drawings for permits, bidding, and construction.

    • Coordinate with design consultants.

    • Offer permit application support upon request.

    • Serve as client representative with the general contractor.

    • Conduct field visits and inspections during construction.

    • Review of general contractor pay applications.

    • Update as-built drawings.

    • Interpret codes and zoning ordinances.

    • Undertake commercial, residential, and industrial projects.

    • Select finishes, furniture, and interior features.

  • Two women sitting at a conference table having a conversation. One woman, with short light brown hair, is holding a tablet, and the other woman, with straight black hair, is smiling and listening. The background features a brick wall.

    How consultants can help:

    • Document site details—boundaries, setbacks, easements, legal data, topography, utilities.

    • Calculate storm water systems, pipes, and grading.

    • Determine electrical loads, wiring, breakers, and related work.

    • Assess HVAC needs, ductwork, and piping.

    • Size beams, footings, and framing.

    • Design and choose furniture, specialty or food service equipment.

  • A neon sign in cursive that reads 'Find the Dream' installed on a building window, with trees and buildings reflected in the glass.

    How Clients can help:

    • Set clear goals and prioritize quality or cost

    • List required rooms, spatial sizes, furniture, and equipment

    • Provide a site survey or existing conditions plan

    • Submit as-built plans, scans, or measurements

    • Understand and approve each phase and final drawings

    • Respond promptly to queries

    • Allow extra time for the design process

    • Make payments on time; design fees are not usually covered by construction loans

    • Assign a general contractor, manager, or main contact

  • How Client Priority can help:

    • The client must prioritize, as it's challenging to satisfy all three priorities.

    • Cost Priority: We keep details to a minimum, offer limited material options, and leave many choices up to the general contractor. This approach may cause longer approval times and more frequent change orders.

    • Quality Priority: We provide comprehensive material selections, which adds time and expenses but helps minimize issues during plan review and reduces the number of change orders.

    • Time Priority: We accelerate the process by supplying fewer details; however, this results in higher fees and a greater chance of change orders, permit delays, and extra costs to resolve open questions.

Learn more about Design Services