Inspiration

It starts with a photograph, a poem, a philosophical idea, a magazine article, a wish list, 

A change in lifestyle. There are no typical clients nor typical pre-defined solutions. 

An architect’s role is to take the clients’ ideas and convert them into reality that can be manifested  graphically. Understandind the clients’ motivations, dreams and aligning expectations to  minimizing misunderstandings.

Review boards

Many municipalities have architectural review boards or historic preservation boards that will ensure architectural review for conformity to aesthetic principals and adherence to the town’s architectural history. Approvals allow continuation of  the project through construction  drawings. 

Life safety

Complex local and state building codes along with city zoning ordinances, dictate 

Size, height, and volume of allowable structures, while maintaining safety of the structure and its inhabitants. Climatic factors

greatly  influence buiding codes and design choices.

Hollistic project understanding

Architects understanding of all aspects of design from initial concepts  to project completion expressed in  phases of the project. 

1.Pre-design- research, sketches, programming, and budget considerations 

2.Preliminary design – schematic design, optional design solutions

3.Design development- design refinements, material selections, budget considerations

4.Permit drawings- architectural and consultant drawings.  Structural. Mechanical, plumbing. Electrical, landscape,  civil and interior design  drawings.

5.Contract document- besides drawings, energy calcs, product approvals, product specifications to attain building permits from regulating bodies. 

Construction administration-project visitation, project progress and adressing revisions. 

Architects as project leader.

Maintaining the design intent is crucial in coordinating the work of various consultants  through out the progress of the project. Creating an open 

Dialoge between the construction  team, architect  and owners is necessary to ensure project cohesion and realistic timelines for completion.