Boathouse Renovation
Lake Hopatcong, NJ
Boathouse Renovation
Lake Hopatcong, NJ
English Country Addition & Alteration
Westfield, NJ
The Process
Our process is simple, time-tested, and unfortunately continues to be eroded or misunderstood by competing or uniformed firms.
The first step is to meet the client, review the site and existing structure. This includes the context of the site, neighboring buildings, landscape, and location to sun. The architect and client walk the project, discuss needs, operations, and budget. During this process recommendations and ideas are suggested. The client and architect also take the opportunity to review if they are a right fit for each other and the project. A proposal is prepared, questions or concerns are discussed and a decision to move forward is decided. The process of technical design begins with measuring the existing building or reviewing empty lot parameters. This will entail measuring, photographing, investigating structure and mechanical/utilities that can be visually seen. The measurements are then converted into plans and elevations in CAD. These files will become the base drawings moving forward. The site will be analyzed for current non-conforming issues with zoning, parking, code issues such as handicap access, toilet facilities, or life safety.
The second step typically by hand is the proposed design in plans and elevation. This is the time in which a design-oriented firm gives the project unique solutions to problems, enhances the architecture by realigning problem areas, providing axial relationships, provides horizontal banding, scale, proportions, efficiency of use, and materiality. This is what separates many firms from each other. Zoning and codes are reviewed and issues are identified. The drawings a combined and ready to be presented to owner. This may include colored sketches, renderings by hand or 3D, or if desired a physical model. Schematic design is now reviewed with client. If changes are desired, not typical, the are made at an hourly fee and reviewed again. Variances, planning board requirements if needed are discussed. If the client is content with the design, before making any revisions, the project is set to three bidders for preliminary bidding. Proposals from engineers, if needed, are requested. Upon receiving preliminary bids the client decides to move forward as planned, reduce scope, or phase project.
Schematic design is now reviewed with the client. If changes are desired, not typical, they are made at an hourly fee and reviewed again. Variances, planning board requirements if needed are discussed. If the client is content with the design, before making any revisions, the project is set to three bidders for preliminary bidding. Proposals from engineers, if needed, are requested. Upon receiving preliminary bids the client decides to move forward as planned, reduce scope, or phase project.
If variance or planning board approvals are required we will coordinate with engineers, land use attorneys, and consultants. If these approvals are not required building sections and details will commence in CAD to be shared and coordinated with engineers. The client and architect will begin the selection of finish materials, design interiors, kitchen, and baths. Upon coordinating final drawings with engineers and consultants the drawing will begin final bidding and permit submission. The client along with our assistance will confirm the final bidders understand the construction drawings and have bid the project properly. We will assist in the final selection and preparation of the construction contract.
During construction, we will provide construction administration services, which entails site visits to confirm contract compliance, assistance to contractors with questions, running biweekly meetings discussing any requests for information, change order requests, and most important to clients: adherence to schedule. Upon completion final punch lists are prepared, lien releases recorded, and the contractor will provide system tutorials for owners and supply warranties and equipment manuals. Before final payment is rendered a review and confirmation of all requirements is recorded by our team.
This process ensures the design, quality, and accounting have been properly managed and the owner may enjoy their newly completed project.