Concept design is an informational gathering phase for us that becomes the foundation for the phases that follow. During this phase it's our goal to observe, listen and inquire in an effort learn as much as possible about the project’s personality, our clients goals, occupant needs, intended programming and the architectrural direction. We also research the project location, the surrounding areas, climate and applicable codes. The benifit of partisipating in this phase is a design that starts out on the right track reflecting the values and needs of the client.
This phase is where we start the process of exploring and testing concepts as we work thorough our five layers of design. As part of this process we corrdinate closely with the architect and engineer in an effort to asses how to achieve the highest level of integration possible. The primary deliverable that culminates from this effort is a package that uses sketches, representative effect and fixture images and functional descriptions to convey the best of our concepts.
In design development we take the first steps to formally develop the schematic concepts into constructable drawings and specifications. We begin the phase by establishing all the technical criteria required to achieve the goals established during schematic design. With this completed we start the process of fixture and controls vetting which includes researching the product lines of over 300 manufacturers, obtaining samples to review and test, obtaning preliminary pricing, running various tests and photometric calculations. The culmination of this phase results in a preliminary drawing and specification set that can be used for cost estimating and more specific coordination with other team members.
In this phase we develop the design drawings and specifications into a fully coordianted precise set of construction documents. These will have all the necessary details, dimensions, notes , fixtures and controls necessary to communicate the entire design intent to the contractor. As this phase evolves , a great deal of high level coordiantion occurs with the other design team members to ensure all needs for a successful installation are accounted for.
In this phase we support the team during the contractor selection and project bidding process. To assist with this we run a pricing exercise with equipment vendors, formulate an estimated cost magnitude and respond to contractor RFI’s. We can also be available to attend interviews and walk-throughs, help evaluate contractor qualifications, and provide assistance with reviewing bids.
While most of our work is done before any building begins, our efforts during the construction phase are equally important. During this phase we carefully review the design submittals provided by the contractor. This is one of the most important tasks as it’s the final opportunity to ensure all lighting and controls are properly configured and ordered. We also remain available to respond to RFI's and proactively address potential issues. Inevitably, some decisions must be made or modified in the field, and our involvement and ability to work quickly with the contractor to solve problems is essential for helping avoid costly delays and change orders. Toward the end of the project, we visit the job site and supervise the focus of any adjustable lighting, review preliminary programming of the control system and develop a final punch list to ensure all work is completed according to the design.
While our core set of services is comprehensive and fully coordinated, we have many more value added abilities that, while not required for every project, we can easily accomodate as the needs arise.