Fees:
We cater each contract to its project. Depending on
budget, project scale, timeline and client needs, we will structure
our fees in one of three ways:
- Fixed Fee – This works for new buildings, when it
is quite clear what the scope of work will be throughout
the job.
- Percentage of Cost of Construction – The actual
percentage will vary, depending on the type of project.
- Hourly basis – This structure is probably the fairest
for smaller jobs, since the client ends up paying only for
the time that is spent on the project, instead of paying
for built-in contingencies that are naturally part of a
fixed fee or percentage type of compensation.
Services:
Pre Design: including site selection and
analysis, feasibility studies and site development consultant
selection (i.e. surveyors, geotechnical engineers).
Programming: We help prioritize which types of spaces
are needed and which make sense given the parameters of the
particular job.
Schematic Design: Conceptual design is perhaps the
most important phase of the process. We pride ourselves in
quickly focusing on a solution that
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works functionally, with a design sensibility
that fits within the context of the project and within zoning
and other city requirements.
Planning Department Submission: We act as liaison
with, and help usher the project through the Planning Department.
We have found that many problems with the city can be alleviated
with respectful design and meetings with adjacent property
owners before submitting the plans.
Design Development: Based on approval from the planning
department, we develop the design and bring on relevant consultants
as needed in order to make sure all potential building issues
are covered. Consultants may include, but are not limited
to, the following disciplines: landscape architecture; structural,
mechanical, electrical and civil engineering; geo-technical
services; cost estimating; irrigation; water-proofing; media;
security systems; lighting design; color consultation; furniture
design; interior decoration and appointments.
Construction Documents: These documents consist
of drawings and specifications that are appropriate for Building
Department submission, allow a general contractor to formulate
a firm bid for construction and provide all of the information
from which the contractor will build the building.
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Building Department Submission: We act as a liaison
with the city and help usher the project through the city
channels.
Bidding / Negotiation: We help the owner pre-qualify
contractors who are appropriate for the job and we publish
bidding documents for general contractors to put together
their bids. We also help decipher these bids, compare and
contrast them and determine which builder is right for the
job.
Construction Observation: We provide construction
services to keep generally familiar with the course of construction.
This includes weekly site visits, phone consultation as needed,
coordination of consultants and city services. Our role is
to help make sure the client’s interests are protected
and to
For a more comprehensive discussion on selecting an architect
and the services we provide, please download the .pdf file
“You and Your Architect” from the American Institute
of Architect’s website http://www.aia.org/about_doforyou
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