Consensus

Our early studies bring new horizons into focus and create consensus about which steps come first.
Our project team explores alternatives at the early stages. The explorations and the synergy of the project team lead to innovative solutions. We then develop concepts to respond to the underlying project goals.
We organize projects to bring key decision makers - users, heads of departments and trustees - into the project in a timely way. Tools used to help visualize the project include models, mock-ups and three dimensional computer models.

Master Planning

For architecture to make a difference the project team must be inspired and reach beyond its grasp.
Our early studies help guide clients as their campuses and buildings change. We work with clients to develop a vision driven by people and programs. We then show how critical linkages can be improved over time, through subsequent buildings, to support those programs. Infrastructure is planned to support the programs instead of restricting them.

Environmental Response

Our projects reflect an attitude of responsibility for environmental concerns. Concepts used to address these issues include:

- Programming that minimizes energy consumption and toxic materials.
- Using appropriate technology.
- Being a good neighbor.
- Creating buildings that breathe.
- Employing materials that thoughtfully balance performance and environmental issues.
- Creating spaces that use daylighting and encourage interaction and activity.
- Planning infrastructure that is safe, flexible and maintainable.

Feasibility

Owners can benefit from a feasibility study prior to commissioning a design. By looking at options before buying in to a specific solution, an owner can understand what options are possible, and weigh the costs against benefits inherent in each design solution.
Unseen conditions warrant a feasibility study because they affect cost and schedule.

These include:
- Site capacity
- Structure vibration
- Renovation
- Connection to existing structures
- Infrastructure
- Program consensus

Lastly, a feasibility study helps an owner visualize a range of solutions and participate in the evaluation of those solutions. Using models and drawings organizational consensus can be achieved around a particular option.
Feasibility studies can be technical in nature, and preliminary engineering done in advance of the design process can help guide the final design. A detailed cost model, based on an actual design solution is called a "Basis of Design" or B.O.D. Using a workshop process, we work with engineers, owners, and builders to develop a Basis of Design package that includes a program, specifications, a design, and a cost estimate.
The process of evaluating and selecting an option is a vital part of the feasibility process. Owners will be weighing hard factors such as cost and schedule against intangibles such as recruiting, retention, campus feel, and community.

Interior Design

Society's strength lies in the participation of the individual in a community.
Architecture is for people, their interaction, their growth and their fulfillment. Architecture is a behavioral opportunity. It is completed and brought to life by use.
We create environments which improve an organization's ability to function. Our buildings emphasize the transparency and communication vital to a self-directed team approach. These environments consist of a variety of spaces, from private to public, which are linked together in an informal way. Special emphasis is placed on in-between spaces such as corridors, alcoves and entries where chance encounters take place. Through such spontaneous interactions, Architecture can foster teamwork and a sense of community.

Historic Re-use

We view buildings as robust containers that can have several lives. A well planned building can accommodate different occupancies and new technologies. Older buildings can be given new life by creative programming and careful design. By re-using existing structures, we co-mingle our past, present, and future and in doing so reinforce the history of our culture.

All of these projects began with careful research and documentation of existing conditions, to develop a full understanding of the original structures and the conditions of wear and tear and code non-conformance. In the spirit of preservation, our designs seek to showcase special features - a vaulted ceiling, a special staircase, or a surface treatment of wall or flooring material that is unique to the project.

Modelmaking

Our modelmaking studio provides an outstanding presentation resource to assist the design, planning, consultation and marketing processes.

Using sophisticated equipment linked to CAD computers, outline and detailed study models are produced. In many cases, fully finished presentation models are produced for the clients' own presentation and marketing activities.

Specialist video, photographic and computer imaging systems can also be employed for integrated presentations and scheme analysis.

 

 

Please, turn to the next pages for:

samples of our designs and projects

references: Evobus, Jungheinrich, Neoplan , Atlanta,

building types

range of service