THE ARCHITECT
The Architect is often the first professional service provider engaged by a client. In this regard it can be critical for the architect to be brought on board at the very inception of a project. In other words, when the need for a new project is first considered; or when an expansion or reconfiguration or a refresh is required; or conversely, when a consolidation of space makes economic sense.
Being a full service architectural firm, Interiors East is often called to participate at the inception of a project. From the moment of engagement, we continually advise and work with the clients for the duration of their project. From pre-construction services and initial planning, through design and construction documents, then the bidding, negotiations and the construction process; we are working for our client’s interests until the doors are opened for business. Our list of services is broad and deep.
Interiors East was founded on what we consider the 4 broad phases of a project: Planning,Design, Construction Documents, and Project Coordination
We continually work with our clients to identify, refine and make suggestions regarding wants and needs such as adjacencies, privacy, communication, and general work flow between the various components of their business and space.
Consideration will be given to appropriate and cost effective configurations of interior and exterior. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive plan that is functional while endeavoring to manage excessive costs.
- Review and identify appropriate method of Project Delivery
- Review of site data
- Review and evaluate Scope
- Building evaluation for adequacy
- Review and assess building condition*
- Code overview
- Evaluate compliance with codes
- Document existing conditions
- CAD input
- Develop preliminary timelines
- Assist with identifying program/needs
- Identify adjacencies of spaces
- Pre-construction services
- Rough Order of Magnitude budget
- Organize Project Team
- Develop Team Responsibility Matrix
- Organize kick-off meeting and subsequent coordination methods
- Develop initial Fit Plan(s
The design portion of a project is where the vision advances to the next level. After reviewing the preliminary drawings and concepts with the client, we will begin to develop the look, feel and character for the space. We will make recommendations for various finishes and materials (e.g. flooring, ceilings, wood species, light fixtures, etc.). Details will be developed according to functionality and aesthetics.
- Assessment of preliminary Fit Plan
- Space Planning
- Adjacency and circulation matrix
- Organization ‘bubble’ diagram
- Function Space planning
- Principle architectural floor plan
- Re-evaluate codes, life safety
- Site design and circulation
- Manage Consultants
- Manage Engineering requirements
- Mechanical Electrical Plumbing (M-E-P) Engineering coordination
- Fire Protection Design coordination
- Fire Alarm design coordination
- Lighting design
- Acoustic design
- Assess and advise regarding solar power options
- Food service area(s) design
- Furnishing specification
- Equipment coordination
- Telephone/data/security
- Audio/visual design coordination
- Assemble vendor team
- Review statements of probable costs from each consultant
- Re-evaluate budget
- Preliminary Project manual
3D modeling technology has become a valuable service provided by Interiors East. We believe that digital modeling and rendering is an important aspect of conveying information to the owner and the rest of the team during the design phase of the project. The following 3D technology efforts continue through the project.
- 3D modeling
- Wireframe, semi- transparent and gray scale perspective sketches. Interior & exterior
- Sun & shadow studies
- hotorealistic rendering
- Site-specific matching of rendering
- Walk-thru and Fly-over videos
- Colors and material representation
Construction Documents are more than simply drawings. Construction documents define in detail the work to be done/shared amongst the contractors and design team(s) for a specific project. Through these documents, all the parties involved in the construction of a project coordinate together to turn on-paper representation into reality.
- Responsibility Schedule
- Code Summary
- Demolition Plans
- Construction Plan
- Ceiling/lighting plan
- Enlarged detail plans – Toilet Rooms and special areas
- Vertical circulation
- Interior elevations
- Doors hardware and window selection
- Food service
- Equipment plans
- Finish plans
- Furniture plans
- Detailing
- Manage and coordinate with Engineering consultants
- Manage and coordinate with Specialty consultants
- Manage and coordinate with Vendors
- Establish and produce General Conditions of the project
- Produce Specifications for all disciplines
Project Coordination continues throughout the entire project. Construction Administration as described below is critical to a project’s success.
- Produce an Invitation to Bid / solicit bidders
- Produce Contract
- Produce and publish Bid Documents
- Answer bid inquiries
- Conduct Bid walk
- Receive and evaluate bids
- Advise relative to selection of General Contractor and any separate vendors
- Project kick-off
- Conduct meetings
- Conduct site observation and construction control requirements
- Review Shop Drawing and submittal for approvals
- Manage RFI’s
- Review Requests for Change
- Review Requisitions for Payment. Forward to Owner
- Coordinate efforts of vendors
- Conduct Punchlist
- Oversee commissioning efforts
- Project close-out
Interiors East utilizes an extensive checklist of tasks that need to be accomplished throughout the project. This system serves as a guide (a virtual roadmap) through the various phases of the project.
We would enjoy sharing our methodology with you!
