Approach:
Why hire an Architect?
As you face the daunting prospect of building a new structure or renovating an existing one you may find yourself asking, “Why do I need an architect?” The answer to this question is more complex than you may think. In many instances the involvement of a licensed architect is required by law. As professionals, it is our responsibility to ensure that the health, safety, and general welfare of the public are respected throughout the design process. Our involvement goes much deeper than that, however. Architectural services are an investment, one that can help you achieve your immediate goals while simultaneously anticipating future needs that you may not have even considered.
As architects, we serve as your consultants, a resource to help you visualize and achieve your goals. Before we even started thinking about a building we help you to identify your needs in regards to growing your business or home. We will guide you through this initial process, discussing issues such as programming, cost estimates, life cycle cost, etc., and help you to make an informed, rational decision about how best to proceed. In the end, our input in matters from construction practices to materials and finish selections, from sustainability tax credits to historic preservation credits, can save you money and increase the future resale value (and aesthetic quality) of your investment.
What does an Architect do?
Once you have decided to hire an architect, you may next find yourself wondering, “What does an architect do?” An architect designs, which is to say that we create solutions to your problems, a process that involves far more than the physical manifestation of a building. Often times before we can even start designing the building we have to address financial, bureaucratic, technical, and programmatic challenges, challenges that it is our responsibility to identify and address before they become a problem. It’s only after we’ve designed solutions to all the various regulatory hurtles that we start designing a building.
Once the building design is finalized and construction has started many people think the architect’s role is complete. In truth, we remain deeply involved in the construction process, acting as your advocate and defending your investment. As architects we help you select the contractor and assist in the bidding process. We process payments applications, and design shop drawings and other materials needed to ensure a smooth construction process. Once the process is complete and you have moved into your new building we remain on hand, always ready to assist with any future developments or needs you may have.
Process:
The Cyclical Design Process
The world is constantly evolving, and with it evolves the needs of your business, your school, your nonprofit organization, or your home. Through the design process we help you respond to your changing needs, allowing you to understand what your options are before you begin construction so that you can make informed, rational decisions about planning for your future. This process is a cyclical one that consists of several phases that vary with each project. These phases are the method by which we develop, refine, and ultimately execute your design.
Pre-design:
At our initial interview we will discuss your goals for the project, the scope of the work, budget, and timeline. We will discuss in detail the program requirements and how to make it work within your budget. We will also document the site to determine design opportunities and/or restrictions, and how to best situate your program in the space allotted. By the end of this meeting we will have generated a fee for our services based on your needs and budget.
Schematic design:
During this phase of the project we take all of the information gathered in our first meeting and generate some initial concepts. From these concepts we will often develop multiple design schemes to review with you at our next meeting. These schemes are not final, but rather are meant to illustrate several possible options. After we have reviewed them with you we will develop another scheme based on our discussions. Once we have developed a scheme that you are happy with we move on to the next design phase.
Design development:
After you have approved of a schematic design scheme we will continue to refine and develop the design. During this phase we will continue to meet with you to resolve any minor changes that may be needed. We will also begin designing items such as materials, electrical, plumbing, structural, and architectural details. After you are satisfied with the result and formally approve the design we are ready to move onto the next phase.
Construction documents:
With your approval of the final design we begin preparing drawings that the contractor will use to construct the building. We will conduct a cost analysis of the building for your review, and will assist you in getting the necessary zoning approvals and building permits to begin construction.
Construction administration: After the construction documents are complete we will send them out for bidding, and assist you in selecting the best contractor for the job. Once building starts we will remain involved with the project, acting as your advocate for the duration of the construction process and keep you updated as the project progresses.
Facility Management:
After construction is complete we remain on hand to assist with any problems that may arise with your new facility. After all, who better suited to help you maintain the investment you just made than the people who helped you to create it? From routine maintenance to programming and feasibility studies for future growth, we are always ready to sit down with you and discuss your goals and how best you can achieve them.
Aesthetics
Kidder Wachter Architecture and Design has completed a wide variety of built projects, yet the casual observer may be unable to distinguish a building we designed as being one of ours. Why? Because here at Kidder Wachter we are dedicated to understanding your needs, your tastes, your goals, and creating a design that reflects the values of you and your organization. While we are fluent in many different architectural languages we would rather project your voice and let your vision be the guiding principle of our design.
