WHAT I DO
I am currently not accepting commissions for new design work as I pursue a PhD. in architecture. Once I resume practice, I will continue to offer design services based upon the following:
A good design begins with listening. Some architects may go into a project hoping to build what they want rather than solving the basic problem the owner faces. A good building not only looks good, but more importantly functions well. By listening to what the owner is trying to achieve, it is possible to exceed their expectations. Often, there may be inherent design problems that create roadblocks to their desired goal. Part of my goal is to help discover those where they exist. Each client is different, with its own set of economic, environmental, spiritual, and philosophical goals. No design solution can serve every client. Only through thoughtful observation and insightful listening to the stated needs of the owner can an appropriate design solution be achieved.
It is my goal to provide efficient, profitable, and innovative solutions to common problems present in our built environment. Through good design, buildings, interiors, and exterior spaces can foster economic growth, productivity, and a sense of comfort for the owners and visitors in both the short and long term.
It is my belief that people recognize and appreciate good design. A prudent design solution sells and provides long-term profitability of the owner. An enjoyable, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space increases employee productivity and provides an enjoyable space for residents, visitors, customers and employees. Good design does not need to be costly, it only needs to be thoughtful and produce the results sought by the client.
Designing sustainable structures is about more than saving the world. It is an economic decision rooted in long-term cost savings for the owner. Saving energy is saving money, and those savings far exceed the investment. Sustainability is about resilience as well, being able to weather the storm, or simply to be well prepared. As a Certified Passive House Consultant I can provide extremely efficient commercial and residential building design using principles of super-insulation, proper building orientation, and correct selection of high-performance doors and windows.
Interior design services include interior space planning, finishes, and furniture selection. As an independent design professional I have no vested interest in specifying a specific product. I do not sell interior products, therefore I take your best interests and what is best for the design intent as my only objective. Unlike other interior design firms, I can provide any architectural design work including changes to building egress, structural engineering, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical design.
BUILDING DESIGN
Commercial or residential whole or partial building design.
INTERIOR DESIGN
NCIDQ certified designer offering interior space planning and finish selection, furnishings and lighting design
CERTIFIED PASSIVE HOUSE DESIGN
Design of super-insulated commercial and residential structures.
SUPPORTIVE ENGINEERING
In-house structural, mechanical, electrical, & plumbing engineering
ADA COMPLIANCE
Americans with Disabilities Act review & compliance for new and existing Facilities.
OWNER REPRESENTATION
Advocate for the owner during construction and for investigative research
SITE DESIGN & MASTER PLANNING
Site design services including parking lot design, grading, & zoning compliance
CODE COMPLIANCE
Zoning ordinance and building code compliance for new and existing structures
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
Construction site observation, reporting, payment and submittal Review
CPTED CONSULTING
Design applications of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
FEE STRUCTURE
Architectural design fees structures can vary greatly depending upon the level of service needed. The level of comfort in hiring an architect may dictate what method is best for you. When the scope of the project is relatively flexible, an hourly fee structure may be best. If the scope is precisely known, a fixed fee method may be appropriate. Each project is unique and each client is unique. It is best to contact me to discuss what your experience and needs are.
Fixed Fee
HIGHLY PREDICTABLE
Scope is known and fixed
Additional charges for changes
Easy to budget for
Based upon a set factor
%
ADJUSTS TO SCOPE
Percentage of construction cost
Fee changes with scope changes
Fee % varies with complexity
Based upon estimated costs and/or final bid value
This site built by Michael S. Nowak. AIA Copyright © 2017