seventy2architects

Feasibility Studies
Feasibility studies are written reports used to assess the viability of a project before committing to full architectural design services. We consider zoning and code regulations, existing building and site conditions, space-needs programming, economic constraints, and environmental issues, which can influence the feasibility of a project. A feasibility study can be helpful in generating a program outline or establishing the scope and cost of a project. These studies are often used to fundraise or for presentation to private boards or municipal officials.

Schematic Design
Schematic Design is the first phase of traditional architectural services, where we begin to translate our client's ideas into architectural space. If this project is a renovation or addition to an existing building, we will first measure the building and draft the existing conditions. We will meet with you to share preliminary sketches showing possible design solutions and directions. We will conduct a review of applicable building codes, and help to determine "ballpark" construction costs. Schematic Design documents may include a diagrammatic site plan, floor plans, and building elevations.

Design Development
Design Development is an elaboration on Schematic Design, to further describe the project for construction. Detailed design drawings are produced on the computer. In this second phase of traditional architectural services, we research different materials and manufacturers.We work closely with our design team - which may include structural, mechanical, electrical and civil engineers, landscape architects, cost estimators, and interior designers - to ensure a complete, thorough and technically viable design scheme.

Construction Documents
In this third phase of traditional architectural services, we develop a set of final drawings and specifications for permit and construction purposes. Construction Documents, or CD's, are often referred to as "blueprints." These are dimensioned and detailed drawings that directthe contractor specifically what to bid and what to build. Completed Construction Documents may include plans, elevations, sections, details, notes, dimensions and schedules. Written specifications may include bidding information and forms, and a draft of the AIA Owner/Contractor agreement.



SERVICES:
Feasibility Studies Feasibility studies are written reports used to assess the viability of a project before committing to full architectural design services. We consider zoning and code regulations, existing building and site conditions, space-needs programming, economic constraints, and environmental issues, which can influence the feasibility of a project. A feasibility study can be helpful in generating a program outline or establishing the scope and cost of a project. These studies are often used to fundraise or for presentation to private boards or municipal officials.
Schematic Design Schematic Design is the first phase of traditional architectural services, where we begin to translate our client's ideas into architectural space. If this project is a renovation or addition to an existing building, we will first measure the building and draft the existing conditions. We will meet with you to share preliminary sketches showing possible design solutions and directions. We will conduct a review of applicable building codes, and help to determine "ballpark" construction costs. Schematic Design documents may include a diagrammatic site plan, floor plans, and building elevations.
Design Development Design Development is an elaboration on Schematic Design, to further describe the project for construction. Detailed design drawings are produced on the computer. In this second phase of traditional architectural services, we research different materials and manufacturers.We work closely with our design team - which may include structural, mechanical, electrical and civil engineers, landscape architects, cost estimators, and interior designers - to ensure a complete, thorough and technically viable design scheme.
Construction Documents In this third phase of traditional architectural services, we develop a set of final drawings and specifications for permit and construction purposes. Construction Documents, or CD's, are often referred to as "blueprints." These are dimensioned and detailed drawings that directthe contractor specifically what to bid and what to build. Completed Construction Documents may include plans, elevations, sections, details, notes, dimensions and schedules. Written specifications may include bidding information and forms, and a draft of the AIA Owner/Contractor agreement.
Bidding & Negotiation Once construction documents are completed, the documents can be issued for bid, or pricing; this is the fourth phase of traditional architectural services. Often multiple contractors are invited to participate by preparing a bid price for the project. A bid is a fixed price for which a contractor agrees to complete the work as shown on the Construction Documents. Throughout the bidding period, we are available to answer questions regarding the contract documents or issue addenda pertaining to the documents. During this phase, you may want to interview several contractors; we can recommend companies that we have successfully worked with in the past. When bids are received, we will review them for accuracy, and walk through the proposals with you. While many people choose a contractor based on a lowest bid, others choose acontractor based on personality or availability and schedule. We will prepare the AIA Owner/Contractor Agreement for your use.
Contract Administration In this fifth and final phase of traditional architectural services, we are your professional representative during Construction - as architects, we look out for our client's best interests. We'll assist the Contractor with the Building Permit Application, and review the Contractor's submittals for proposed building materials. We visit the site and attend site meetings to review the work, answer questions and review the construction schedule. We'll review the Contractor's monthly Applications for Payment (requisitions), to verify that the work being billed has been completed. Once work is complete, we will conduct a final site visit and review the Contractor's final Application for Payment.
Municipal Approvals Approvals are required for most projects before a Building Permit can be issued. Governing authorities often include: Planning and Zoning Commissions, Historic Committees, Wetlands/Conservation Panels, Building Departments, Health Departments and Fire Marshal's Offices. Zoning variances may be required from the local Zoning Board of Appeals. We can help you to determine which approvals will be required for your project. We can assemble a team of experts as required for your specific project, and make presentations of your proposal to governing agencies.
Architectural Visualization Architectural visualization can be used as a design tool, a marketing tool and a communication tool. We create full color architectural visualizations that can be used for presentations at municipal commissions, and for fundraising and marketing.
Code Consulting & Zoning Review For new and existing buildings, we apply our thorough understanding of complex Building Code and Zoning Regulations to identify problems and to help you find the best design solutions to bring your building into compliance. Local, state and federal codes include municipal zoning regulations, town ordinances, and fire, residential, building and accessibility codes.
seventy2architects 248 Main St. Studio 3B, Danbury, CT 06810 t/203 791 8175 f/203 791 0808 info@72architects.com