Project Program

Develop understanding of the initial goals of the client and clearly delineate them in a written program. Use this information as a basis for development of preliminary square foot budgeting; creating a project plan; and establishing a design fee.

Schematic Design

During this phase, the designer and client work collaboratively to define the scope and parameters of the project, and generate a conceptual schematic design. From this concept, the project budget is projected using a formal RFP process to establish a defined set of subcontractors, vendors and their associated pricing.

· Zoning review by engineer/attorney (if necessary)

· Site survey/existing footprint review (use existing drawings as possible)

· Measure and document existing building (use existing drawings as possible)

· Drawing existing building (use existing drawings as possible)

· Historic research on original elements (if requested)

· Schematic design of new building use (use existing drawings as possible and incorporate new elements)

· Research on building or remodeling the building as a green project (from above)

o Review under LEED for existing buildings guidelines

o Determine most appropriate available and affordable green components for project.

o Use consultants to determine best practices and key parameters (E.G.):

§ Infra red Heat loss analysis

§ Sun light – solar heat gain; site study

§ Mechanical systems engineering by PE

§ NEXUS –consulting on products means and methods

§ Other?

· Modify schematic design concept to include selected LEED elements (if requested by client)

· Schematic design budgeting

o Create preliminary Request for Proposals (RFP) for the project in sub sections of work by category, type, and vendor.

o Have on site RFP meeting with vendors.

o Collect and collate quotes and evaluate vendors.

o Build quote based schematic budget.

Design Development

During this phase of development, the schematic designs are refined and the budget is formalized. This phase is often iterative and may take several revisions to finally define the project design, scope and budget.

• Modify schematic design to accommodate vendor recommendations and quotes allowed by budget guidelines.
• Develop interior design with selection of all fixtures and finishes.

Construction Documents

CDs are required for project permitting. During this phase, the following deliverables are completed:

• Architectural construction drawings suitable for building permit and approval from other granting agencies.
• Structural engineer approval of drawings.

Construction Administration

If requested the following administration services will be provided:

• Provide oversight and liaison services between all stakeholders.
• Provided design and scope implementation oversight with contractors and vendors.

Permitting

Each project is subject to the following permitting considerations:

• Historic
  • Historic Commission Review
  • State Historic Review
• Building Department permit submittals
• Fire Department Review
• Zoning Board Review (may be required)
• Zoning Board of Appeals (may be required)
• Conservation Commission (may be required)
• Sprinkler/Fire alarm permits (not likely for residential)
• Sidewalk and Parking bonds/permits (may be required)
• Elevator permits (if applicable)
• Storm water management and engineering (may be required)

Depending on the parameters of a given project we will work with our staff and or other architects, engineers, designers, and consulting professionals. The need for outside consultants is typically established during the initial programming step.