The first step in the architectural design process is the schematic design. After the initial consultation with the client, the architect should come away with an idea of the overall concept and scope of the project. Further meetings or phone calls with the client, or visits to the proposed building site, may be necessary to
The architectural design process can seem bewildering to clients – there are so many decisions to be made, so many tasks to complete, so many people involved. Part of my aim with this blog is to demystify the design and construction process for people considering a building or remodeling project. Last week, I wrote about
Any building or remodeling project involves a team of professionals. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the team can range from just a single architect and contractor to a host of architects, engineers and construction project managers, but the basic requirements are the same: properly trained and experienced professionals working in concert
So you’ve decided on a project and checked out the websites of a few local architects, and now it’s time for your initial architect consultation. Whether you’re taking advantage of a free consultation or paying an architect for her time, how well prepared you are for that first meeting can make the difference between a
When people find out I’m an architect, they almost always want to talk about their projects. Whether it’s a home remodel, a new retail space for their business or a new commercial building, one of the first questions that usually comes up is, “Do I really need an architect for that?” In some cases, the
Tenant improvements (TIs) – also known as leasehold improvements or build-outs – are changes you make to a leased commercial space to make it ready for you to do business. The cost of these improvements will typically be partially or fully defrayed by your landlord through a tenant improvement allowance (TIA) you negotiate during
Wildfire season is in full swing here in California, and it’s a sad fact of life that we all need to be prepared in case we get the unwelcome message that a fire is heading our way. As an architect helping rebuild after 2017’s Tubbs Fire, I’ve gotten a first-hand look at how a wildfire
Accessible design should be near the top of your list of things to consider when you’re remodeling or designing a new retail space. Given that the 2010 census found that 19 percent of the U.S. population lives with some form of disability, creating retail environments that are accessbile, safe and welcoming for all isn’t only
This post previously ran in 2016. Starting a large building or remodeling project can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve never worked with an architect before. You’ll probably have lots of questions about timing, process and cost, and a host of others are bound to come up as your project progresses. To take some of
This post first ran in 2015. Green design, also known as sustainable design, was once an afterthought – a nice "extra" to think about after the big design decisions had been made. As our awareness of the importance of caring for our planet has grown, green design has evolved to become a key consideration for
