Design Consultations We offer this valuable service to new residential or commercial remodeling clients. A design consultation gives you an architect’s expertise for a limited time at a reasonable price. Read More Documentation of Existing Conditions / Code Search Documentation of existing conditions and Code Search If adequate existing documentation is not available, we will field measure the existing building and prepare accurate drawings that allow us to develop plans that reflect the actual field conditions to be considered. If existing surveys do not exist, we will assist you in finding a surveyor to prepare a Plat of Survey. At this time, we will also conduct a preliminary code search, to determine the relevant building and zoning code issues and limitations. Schematic Design Schematic Design Phase During the Schematic Design Phase, we will prepare preliminary drawings to illustrate possible design directions for the site plan, floor plan and elevations. We will then discuss options with the client and make adjustments and/or new configurations. In general, we will include 2-3 main options in our initial fee, along with some minor adjustments. Extensive changes may require additional fees. However, once you are happy with the schematic design, we can move onto the Construction Document phase (unless a Public Hearing is required). Public Hearing (when necessary) Public Hearings Sometimes, projects require Conditional Use Permits and/or Variances by the local municipality. These are zoning actions with a formal set of legal requirements for Public Hearings. Generally, this process requires an application explaining the project as well as drawings illustrating the use of the site and any variations that may be requested, along with fees to the municipality and other items as required. Then, there will be 2-3 Public Hearings before approval and/or revisions required. We have assisted many clients receive approvals during these types of hearings. Construction Documents Construction Documents Once the Schematic Design has been approved by the Client, and any necessary zoning actions have been approved, the next step is Construction Documents. Construction Documents are the drawings that include the information needed to build the building, as well as the building code information required to obtain a building permit. Bidding and Permitting Bidding and Permitting There are multiple ways to bid a construction project. Some of our clients prefer to handle bidding on their own, while others prefer to have more assistance from their architect. The permit review process frequently happens in parallel with bidding. It is important that the contractor is aware of any changes to the bid set that occur during the permitting process. Regardless, Design Studio C, LTD. will respond to any Plan Review Comments with a written response as well as any revisions that may be required. Services during Construction