Inscale Architects has sought out and discovered our niche in the surrounding area. Each client and project we are involved with gets our direct attention and expertise. Unlike larger firms, the personal contact and ability to make adjustments “on the fly” makes Inscale Architects distinctive and unique. Large architecture firms tend to be impersonal and distant while projects are given to apprentices and employees within the firm. Generally, the primary owners get directly involved with only select projects. The ability to work directly for the client on each project is the foundation by which Inscale is built. Architectural Services are a wise investment. Our input can often save money on a project and contribute to the success of the finished building. In many cases, an architect's involvement is required by state law. - Construction Practices - A well thought out project can be built more efficiently and more economically.
- Energy Savings - We can suggest alternative systems and building elements that can lower utility costs.
- Material & Finish Selection - We can help you choose materials and finishes that are beautiful, durable, environmentally friendly, and cost effective.
- Good Design Sells - A well designed house has a higher resale value, well designed stores draw more customers, and well designed work environments attract employees and increase productivity.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROCESS The architectural design process is different for every project. Based on our amount of involvement, we can tailor our services and fees to meet your needs. The best projects result from clear communication and exchange of ideas from all parties involved. Pre-Design - Initial Interview - In our first meeting with you, we want to learn about you, the scope of your project, budget, and project timeline.
- Programming – We will sit down with you to discuss the requirements of the proposed building: how many rooms, sizes, functions, relationships, who will use it and how. We will review the program and budget to find the fit between what you need, what you want, and what the budget allows.
- Site Visit & Documentation – Whether we are designing a new building, renovation, or addition, we will want to see what we are working with. We will photograph and document the site to determine the opportunities and restrictions. We will also want your input on the building orientation, views from the site, and site features.
Schematic Design- Rough Sketches – After the program has been defined we will take that information and put together some initial hand drawn concepts of the plan and elevations. These concepts will show the general arrangement of rooms and the placement on the site. Typically we will develop more than one initial scheme.
- Schematic Design Review – At this point, we will have a meeting with you to discuss the schemes. These initial concepts are by no means final, they are meant to show possible design options. We will take good ideas from each, along with your comments, and produce a new scheme to move to the next phase.
Example: Schematic Design Sketches Design Development- Detailed Drawings – We will take the approved schematic design and elaborate on it to illustrate other aspects of the proposed design. Depending on our scope of services, we will often produce a computer generated 3D model of the proposed design. These are very effective in helping you visualize the project.
- Design Development Review – We will meet with you to work out any minor changes that need to be made. We will discuss interior and exterior finishes, construction types, and the inclusion of green elements. We will continue to refine the scheme until a final design is approved.
Example: Computer Model
Construction Documents - Cost Analysis & Zoning Approvals – We will conduct a cost analysis of different systems for your review and approval. We will also assist you in the application for the pertinent zoning approvals and building permits.
- Drawings and Specifications – We will prepare detailed drawings and specifications that represent the building in detail. These are what the contractor will use to build the structure, establish the actual construction costs, and obtain permits. These documents become part of your contract with the builder.
Example: Partial Wall Section Construction Administration - Select a Contractor – Architects do not select or hire contractors, however we will advise you in selecting a contractor or team of contractors and provide assistance through the bidding and or negotiation process.
- Project Management – Once the contract is signed, we will act as your agent during the construction process. We will process payment applications, shop drawings, product data, samples, and answer the contractor’s questions. We will also monitor the construction process for conformance with the construction documents, keeping you updated as the project progresses.
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