process
design research:
We like to start our design process with a short feasibility study. During this phase, we conduct extensive research into the client's aspirations, the location and environment of the project, budgets, zoning and building code limitations, and client schedules and anticipated date of completion.
While conducting this research, we are looking for opportunities to balance three major parameters that are the driving forces for most design projects: quality, time, and money. During conversations with the client, we will listen carefully to the client's desires and agree on a shared set of expectations, and a vision for the project, that will be the basis for the design process.
The goal of the feasibility study is to determine the design strategy that is most desirable, technologically feasible, economically viable and will make the biggest improvement to the property and its surrounding environment.
design thinking:
Once the shared vision for the project is established, we begin the iterative process of ideation by developing a wide array of possible solutions without preconceived judgment. Our team will then select the most promising ideas and develop them into a small set of schematic design alternatives that will be presented to the client.
Three-dimensional representation of design concepts together with the demonstration of real time alterations are a crucial element of this client presentation.
After the client's approval of one desired design direction, we assist in retaining all suitable consultants and expertise and proceed towards further refinement of the design and the implementation of the project. We strongly believe, however, that design thinking does not stop with the establishment of a design direction, but continues through the entire process of project implementation, detailing and construction.
design communication:
One of the most important roles that architects and designers fulfill is the act of communication. Whether, between design team and client, or between client and contractor, open and transparent communication acts as the glue that holds the design process together.
This is why we believe in bringing a contractor into the project team for pre-construction services as soon as possible, preferably right after the schematic phase of the design. Not only will a good contractor advise on means, methods and construction cost but will also save money and time.
Whether the project is procured through traditional design-bid-build, design-build or alternative processes, the key to a smooth construction process lies in the design-team's ability to produce a set of complete and coordinated documents that communicate the project intent and expected performance in a clear and cogent manner to the bidders.
design implementation:
Once the contractor is hired and the construction is under way, our role of interpreting the documents and assuring the quality of the built work requires an even greater degree of communication with client, design team and contractor.
Aside from the prescribed means of communication with contractors, we believe in the virtue of frequent site visits and informal conversation with craftsmen and suppliers. This allows us to discover opportunities and limitation at an early stage before they become issues. Furthermore, we believe that communicating three-dimensional representations of design concepts and details on site, either digitally or through sketches, strongly enhances the understanding and enthusiasm of contractors.
design review:
After completion of the project, we go through the internal process of design review. We review the design strategy laid out in the feasibility study and compare its objectives with the completed project.