Architecture today has become a multi-faceted discipline. It is no longer sufficient to simply provide excellent design. Todays architect has to have the focus and experience to navigate a project from the initial entitlement process through to final approval and ultimate construction. This process has become increasingly difficult and continues to get more rigid. Government agencies, neighborhood associations and new code requirements all contribute to the process. The architect finds himself at the center of a tremendous amount of activity which includes the owner, the contractor, the planning staff, the building inspector and other consultants such as the surveyor, structural, civil and soils engineers. To use a sports metaphor, the architect is the "quarterback" of this team. Stewart K. Summers has often demonstrated that he is the one who can assemble this group and ultimately drive the project forward. This is a vital skill to keep a project on track.
This is the initial brainstorming portion of the project where we will assist you in evaluating your project goals and requirements. Stewart will listen, question and explore different possibilities. At this point, we will also perform an extensive entitlement review with the local governing authority to ensure that we fit within the guidelines for a successful approval process.
For addition/remodel projects it is necessary to have accurate architectural drawings of the existing home. We will provide on-site field measurements to create an “As-built” set of plans to initiate the design process. If required, We will also assist the owner in obtaining topographic surveys of a parcel.
Once it is determined what will be built, We will provide initial ideas as the Schematic Design. These drawings will indicate the proposed general configuration of rooms/spaces in plan and elevation view. Once a schematic design has been selected, we provide Design Development which provides more detailed floor plans, elevations building sections, etc. At this point more decisions are made with respect to materials, window/door placement, cabinets, etc. On projects that require Design Review by governmental agencies, we will provide assistance in obtaining project approvals.
After design drawings have been approved by the owner and other agencies (if required), we will provide detailed construction drawings/documents that will be submitted for building permits to the governing agencies and to the contractor for bidding/construction. We will also assist owner in the management of all required design professional services.
As requested, We will provide continued services to assist the owner through the process of construction. We can provide construction observations, material submittal evaluation, shop-drawing review, Green building measure observations, etc.
Stewart K. Summers provides independent green building consulting to homeowners, contractors, developers and other designers to assist project achieve a certified green point rating through the Build It Green organization.