Architectural Services and
Design Process

Michael J. Harlock A.I.A. offers start to finish planning, architectural, interiors and project management services to bring the Client's dreams to reality. The following is a guide to let homeowners know what to expect at each stage of their home improvement project. It is the goal of our professional practice to manage this often complicated and time consuming undertaking for our Clients, maximizing the value of their investment.

Programming: Clearly understanding the Client's objectives is fundamental to the evolution of a successful design. The Architect will pose questions to determine how the family's lifestyle interacts with their living environment; what's working and what does not. An information base is created bringing together all that is known about the property including a complete understanding of zoning requirements. Opportunities and constraints are fully discussed including budget parameters. The result is a project program that puts everyone on the same page while fostering creative invention.

Conceptual Design: Various approaches are explored to meet the Client's design priorities. Our training and experience often allows solutions to emerge that the homeowner may not have thought possible or envisioned. The objective is to provide a menu of relevant ideas (simply and clearly presented) to expand the discussion of possible solutions. In some cases a single concept will prove most successful, but often the best approach will combine good ideas from alternate designs.

Schematic Design: The best ideas from the concepts stage are brought together into a comprehensive architectural solution. Using two and three dimensional graphics and in some cases modeling, the design is fully explored and explained with the Client's ongoing participation. It is our conviction that the efficient use of space, new and existing, is often key to avoiding overbuilding and saving money. Schematic exhibits are sufficiently developed that contractors' construction cost estimates can be obtained, which we strongly encourage as a budget check. Our office works with a large group of qualified general contractors (as well as engineering and related consultants) who we can confidently recommend based on the nature of the job.

Planning Department Review: For new houses and most additions, discretionary design review by the local planning agency is required, including any zoning variances the project may require. Schematic plans, approved by the Client, form the basis of exhibits submitted to the city or county. They are reviewed by the planning staff, notices are sent to neighbors and a public hearing is scheduled. Our office has years of experience coordinating this process and presenting the design to obtain all required approvals.

Construction Documentation: Once planning approvals are obtained and detailed design requirements are verified with the Client, the process of documenting the project for building permit, bidding and construction is begun. These plans and specifications, from which the project will be built, are often referred to as "working drawings". There is a good deal of design refinement that takes place as the architectural design is melded with structural engineering; color, finish and fixture vocabularies. As always, the Client's input and review of the evolving details are crucial to the success of the final design.

Building Permit and Construction Contract: Plans are first submitted to the Building Department for review of building code compliance. At the same time, documentation is completed with inclusion of non-code architectural details, finish and fixture selections, insofar as they have been decided upon. The plans and specs, with any code related updates, are then issued to contractors in a traditional bid process or for negotiated pricing with a builder or builders of the Client's choice. Our office handles the information flow and coordination of tasks required throughout. Once an Owner/Contractor agreement is finalized and the building permit is issued, construction is ready to begin.

Construction: The Architect's role during construction is primarily to assure the Client that the integrity of the design and quality of work is maintained. This usually takes the form of periodic visits to the site with the Contractor and Client (and as needed the Engineer) leading to inspection at substantial completion, punch list preparation and close out to the Client's satisfaction. While the Architect is not responsible for the means and methods of construction, our role in facilitating communication anticipates issues that arise to maximize value delivered. Clarifications, on-site decisions and adjustments are thoroughly documented. Any requested change order to the construction contract is reviewed for validity, quality and price by the Architect.

Realizing that a superlative outcome is in the best interest of the Owner, Architect, and Contractor, our office stresses the importance of a strong team approach to project communications and delivery. Respecting the knowledge and commitment of all participants is the best predictor of success.