Design Process
DESIGN PARTNERSHIP WITH CLIENT
Our office is committed to providing innovative architectural solutions based on economic value and design excellence. We arrive at the proposed design solution following an extensive evaluation of the client’s needs and expectations regarding the project’s program and budget. We consider the client a partner during this design process.
Our design process is dependent on open and straightforward communication with our clients, an ability to work within a project team, responsiveness to project schedules and budgets, and an overall commitment to design excellence.
Throughout the project, our team will consider the Owner to be essential design partners in this process. Their knowledge of the workings of the existing facility will be invaluable during the “information gathering” stage of the assessment process. The project coordinator can expect to devote additional time at the onset of the process to provide the Architect with a “walk-thru” of the facility, explanation of the operations and services, and introductions to the various staff members and their responsibilities.
Members of the staff will be asked to meet with the Architect in a group setting for a “brain storming” session. We will discuss the owner’s goals and objectives for this space assessment process. Generally, we will be interested in the long-term vision for the facility. The project coordinator will be kept informed of the progress of our work at regularly scheduled progress meetings.
The methodology to our work would include the following design steps:
PRE-DESIGN AND INFORMATION GATHERING
Step One would involve a NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND FACILITY STUDY, which would evaluate the current building in order to identify space needs and the types of services to be incorporated within an expanded and renovated facility. This step is dependent on accurate and thorough research, observation, and analysis of the current facility and can be considered an “information gathering” process. We would begin by documenting and quantifying the existing conditions of the building, administrative functions, and services offered. The Architect would study the existing floor plan to determine square footage as needed for future evaluation and planning purposes.
Book an AppointmentBRAINSTORMING AND WISH LIST
The goal of a Feasibility Study is to determine which proposed renovation and expansion project would most benefit JBT. In order to be considered beneficial, this project must prove to improve the company’s ability to operate safely and efficiently while also making sound sense economically.
This report will begin by identifying the positive and negative characteristics of the existing building and its grounds in order to correct the problems or incorporate the favorable attributes within any new project. This Study will consider the long-term possibilities for further expansion within the context of the existing site. The Architect will then investigate the proposed site layout including zoning and other land use constraints.
The Architect will conduct a study of the proposed building to determine compliance with current Ohio Building Code and Americans with Disabilities standards. This Study will identify anticipated construction costs associated with the proposed expansion project.
BUILDING PLAN OR SCHEMATIC DESIGN
Step Two would result in the preparation of a PRELIMINARY DESIGN to address the design goals identified in the Space Needs Assessment explained above. This step can be considered a “brainstorming” process. This phase will identify the physical limitations of the building. This phase will include the publication of a written building program or “wish list”. The project team will attempt to identify both feasible and preferred options. Unreasonable options will be eliminated. This work will be completed with additional input from the project coordinator and staff. Design work will also include development of a site layout to show the proposed building expansion, expanded parking areas, and possible outdoor areas. An important part of this phase will be the development of a preliminary construction cost estimate by the Architect and General Contractor to include anticipated building costs and site development expenses. At the conclusion of this phase, the Owner will be in a position to determine the feasibility of moving forward with the actual renovation and expansion project based on its proposed schematic design and estimated cost.
CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
Step Three would involve finalizing the Preliminary Design, and preparation of CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS, negotiation of a general contract bid for the construction work, selection of the various subcontractors and award of contract, followed by construction of the building.