Predesign Services

Architectural Programming is an educational and exploratory process that energizes fresh thinking, inspires innovation and channels all the facets of a business into a single clear focus. It assists the client in defining who they are and what their true needs are. Through individual interviews and a workshop method referred to as “design charretting,” we explore and compile, in detail, both the qualitative and quantitative concepts that make up the clients business, human and technological resources. This process concentrates time spent by the client into specific blocks early on, resulting in less interruption during the design process. We conclude with a document that serves as the organizational pathway for the client and the architect saving time and money.

Existing Facilities and Site Assessments are an important component to a pre-design evaluation. Existing site constraints such as zoning, lot configuration / size and existing utility capacities are vital considerations, as they tend to be overlooked and can have a large impact on project cost.

Evaluation of existing facility’s or structure’s functionability, code compliance, handicapped accessibility, and life cycle are issues unique to each structure. They must be closely reviewed in an effort to establish the cost impact which will, in turn, determine project viability.

As budgets are always a concern, evaluating the potential cost and scope of a project prior to action can be critical in saving clients time and money. We use our extensive relationships with local general contractors and sub-contractors who have the best pulse on our area’s economy. In addition, we utilize our own cost database and our consultant’s database to historically validate the contractor’s opinions.