Our Services
1. Architectural Services (Simplified Process)
We recognize it may be the first time working with an architect, so I really want to make the Architectural Service process clear and simple. A quick preview of what to expect:
We listen, ask questions, gather information-THEN
We design, present options, ask more questions- THEN
We refine the designs, THEN
We help you get permits to allow the constructions to be built. THEN
We help you find a reliable contractor to build the Project-THEN
We monitor the construction progress.
2. Feasibility study – $2000
Down & Dirty for you? This assessment is a 6-9 hour session where we develop preliminary sketches, budget, timeline and meet to explain our findings and design, then chart a course of action. This is done in one day!. Great way to get the feel of what’s ahead. Those fees are credited to future work. Extremely useful! Here’s what Kathy had to say about her recent experience:
“I hired Steve to do a 1-day feasibility study so I could better understand the realities of a remodel I’ve been considering. It was the smartest move I could have made, because not only did he listen and produce the drawings and estimates that answered my questions, he went beyond with other ideas that have enabled me to re-evaluate my goals and determine what’s best. He helped me see my house in a whole new way, with all its potential. Highly recommend. “
*****
3. Interiors
Once an envelope has been established for the shell of the user, we provide choices and direction for arranging the spaces, lighting, furnishings, special finishes, equipment, and accessorizing to leave the user with a truly “turn-key” space.
4. Landscape Architecture
We work with the site so that what is built complements what is natural and will endure with minimal maintenance and look great for years. We’ll analyze the use of the site, the drainage, parking, landscaping and leave you astounded with an awesome design solution that compliments your building or home.
5. Inspections
Inspections: On behalf of owners and managing agents who need to verify that their building facades are safe and code compliant, we will inspect the condition of their building to satisfy municipally required inspections (such as New York City’s Local Law 11) or review questionable conditions that warrant examination. We carefully and methodically inspect the subject, document the conditions and can suggest and implement feasible repairs. We do selective legalizations to help owners make construction that was performed without permits- “legal” and conforming.
6. Construction Monitoring
Construction Monitoring: We become the eyes and ears of various parties involved with the project’s construction. Often we are hired by lenders, banks or joint venture partners to report back on the status of the projects schedule, quality and general “vibe”. Our early intervention and guidance allow potential problems to get resolved promptly with minimal impact.
7. Peer Review
With extensive experience as an architect, construction monitor and building inspector we bring “real world” drawing reviews that have benefited hundreds of architects, engineers, building owners, developers and joint venture investors. We review the drawings and spec’s for completeness and relevance before being sent out to bid or to the field to build, and can recommend typical corrective measures while still on paper. These reviews have saved countless headaches, change order extras and reputations.
PHASES OF A PROJECT
Each project generally consists of 5 or 6 phases and are outlined below.
1. Preliminary- Due Diligence Phase
Ask lots of questions to refine the scope of the project.
Find out the applicable regulations, budget, and related factors that will influence the project. Obstain surveys, site/environmental testing.
Create several preliminary solutions for review and feedback. Discuss options. These drawings are often in 3d and virtual reality format so they are easier to understand. Edit, revise, , rinse and repeat!
2. Design Development Phase
Develop the preliminary drawings into transitional drawings that describe the basic systems and materials.
Often these drawings will be used for preliminary municipal approval review by review boards. The drawings should be thorough enough to describe the design intent without going into too much detail, in case there are changes needed by the municipality.
3. Construction Documents Phase
Develop the drawings into more technical drawings used for obtaining additional municipal approvals and for construction purposes with dimensions, details, specifications, lists of materials and occasionally integrate with drawings from other consultants when necessary.
4. Approvals/Bidding and Negotiation Phase
We’ll get your applications and permits in order, then contact qualified builders to submit bids. When the bids come back, we analyze them and verify that the costs are “apples to apples” and not laden with substitutions or caveats. We prepare a written contract between the Owner and Contractor to protect each party from misunderstandings.
5. Construction Phase
During the course of construction, we’ll monitor the work to make sure it reflects the intentions of the drawings and good construction practices. We assist the Owner in advising when and how much to pay the Contractor and help mediate disputes before they hinder the progress of the job. We often help the Owner pick out and arrange new furnishings and landscaping to fit-out space and property.
6. Follow-up Phase
We stay in touch with the Owner or User to find out what aspects of the project they liked and what aspects we can improve upon.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY- “you’re like our gps for the project”,
thanks Valerie
Schedule a meeting, screenshare or call 914 674 2950-we’ll get you there.
