Commercial Design Process
After years of working with civil engineers, architects, developers, and owners, we have the knowledge to compete with larger firms by offering the same sophisticated design services, but with the high level of customer service and attention to detail provided by a smaller firm. Our diverse skill set affords us the opportunity to serve as the lead project manager for the entire Site Plan application process, or we can simply serve as a consultant by providing Landscape Plans, Area Lighting Plans, and Irrigation Plans. In either scenario, we combine our technical expertise with our eye for aesthetics. Learn more below.
Project Initiation
During this phase, a representative from our office listens to your project needs and asks questions in order to get a general understanding of what the project scope entails. If applicable, we will schedule an on-site consultation to meet with you at the property in order to review the site/surrounding context in more detail and begin to fine tune the overall development goals. A comprehensive understanding of the project allows us to provide the highest quality end product and the best overall customer service for your firm. Together we will determine what types of plans/permits are required and establish an appropriate construction budget and/or critical path timeline. Once all of the information has been gathered, a Contract will be submitted to your office summarizing the project scope, listing time frames for completion, and identifying the associated project fees.
Due Diligence Research
When applicable, we will research the governing ordinances or state/county regulations specific to the project location and site parameters. Pertinent requirements are presented in chart form to summarize whether the project complies with these requirements. This background due diligence brings issues to the surface early so that the development plan can be adjusted in order to prevent deviations from the code. If for some reason the project parameters prohibit us from complying, we will highlight these deviations so that you are prepared to request a variance/waiver from the governing authority. If applicable, we will also review the property survey, perform a site visit, review site photographs, and identify existing vegetation.
Design Development
Based on the project scope and Due Diligence Research, a preliminary plan set is prepared. The preliminary plan set includes some or all of the following plan sheets: Demolition Plan, Tree Preservation Plan, Site Plan, Grading & Utility Plan, Landscape Plan, Lighting Plan, Soil Erosion Plan, and Notes/Detail Sheet. In addition to the necessary code requirements, it is our goal to utilize our extensive knowledge of the profession to develop a creative, cost effective, and functional design that is suited to the end-user.
Project Status/Coordination
Throughout the life of the design portion of the project and once the Design Development phase is completed, our office will be in contact with your office to keep you abreast of any new findings, advise on criteria which has a direct impact on the final design, and propose alternatives in order to keep the project budget on target.
Final Construction Documentation
This phase involves refinement of the previously prepared Design Development plans based on your feedback or preliminary meetings with municipal professionals. The plans will be enhanced to show dimensioning for construction, construction detailing, and any other notes or specifications which foster an acceptable review from the governing authorities and clear direction for the contractors building the project.
Professional Testimony
If required, our office will prepare the necessary exhibits and documentation for a public hearing. During the hearing, we will present our design to the appropriate board members for their review and answer any questions they may have that are applicable to the overall design.
Construction Services
Once the final plan set has been approved for construction, our office can provide the following services: cost estimates, bid forms, assistance with completing applications/permits, nursery visits to tag plantings, on-site project management, final punch list walk-through.
Let’s Connect.
Every great project starts with a well thought out plan, let’s get started on yours. Don’t be shy, we want to hear from you! Give us a call so we can learn more about your project and schedule a free, no obligation, initial on-site consultation.