The Process
Schematic Design | Design Development | Const. Documentation
Bidding and Negotiation | Const. Administration | Post-Const. Services

Programming
The beginning of the design process is the development of a building program. This process determines the general size and scope of the project. It further establishes the amount of space required for each function, the relationships between the required functions, the desired elements for site development, the necessary mechanical and electrical services to be provided, and any equipment or furniture needs. Buchar, Mitchell, Bajt Architects, Inc.'s programming approach provides for extensive interaction with the building owner to ensure that his or her needs will be met.

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Schematic Design
During schematic design the approved program is used to prepare sketches of the general location of the spaces involved in the project, their relationship to each other and to the site. Typically, “hardline” drawings are developed, fixing the size and character of the facility. Our architectural team members study the owner’s intent for the building to identify various design solutions.

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Design Development
Upon approval of schematic design, Buchar, Mitchell, Bajt Architects, Inc. will begin more detailed drawings. These drawings will show each space, windows, doors, structural elements, and selected building materials. Work will begin with consultants to incorporate mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems into the building design. Simultaneously, all necessary site work will be designed and a landscape plan will be developed. At the end of the design development phase, the client should feel comfortable that all of his or her requirements for the building have been met, so that construction documentation can begin.

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Construction Documentation
Construction documentation is a process of preparing working drawings and specifications that are used to bid and construct the building. Every portion of the building will be detailed and explained graphically. Our staff has a strong commitment to the highest possible standards for project documentation because quality documents typically minimize problems during construction. Buchar, Mitchell, Bajt Architects, Inc. has over 32 years of experience in various types of construction administration and management. This experience has enhanced our knowledge and understanding of actual construction practices and how various trades interact. This awareness also improves the overall quality of our construction documents.

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Bidding and Negotiation
Once construction documentation is completed, the project will typically be sent out to bid. At this time, selected general contractors will have the opportunity to competitively bid on the project. Buchar, Mitchell, Bajt Architects, Inc. will respond to all questions from prospective bidders and issue appropriate documents to clarify any necessary items prior to the completion of bids. We will evaluate all bids when received in preparation for the awarding of construction contracts.

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Construction Administration
Construction administration services are necessary to ensure that the finished project is consistent with the intended design, is completed on time, and is of high quality. For that reason, we offer a comprehensive scope of construction administration services. The extent of these services is established with each of our clients to best represent their individual service requirements. As a part of our basic architectural services, we conduct a pre-construction meeting with our client and the successful bidders to establish the procedures to be followed during construction. Project coordination and scheduling are also reviewed to identify and resolve any anticipated problems before construction begins.

 

We attend weekly on-site progress meetings with the contractors and the client. In addition, we will visit the project as needed to resolve any issues that arise during the course of construction. This ensures that the project is performed in a timely manner and is consistent with our client’s expectations. As the project nears completion, the client will receive binders of product information and instructions on how to operate and maintain equipment used in the building. Additionally, we require the contractor and subcontractors to train the owner’s personnel on all major pieces of equipment, so as to eliminate any confusion regarding the proper operation and maintenance of equipment.

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Post-Construction Services
If our clients ever have questions about their facilities, we encourage them to call us. Usually we can solve any problems which may arise, but if not, we can direct them to an organization that specializes in correcting the problem. By our commitment to aiding our clients even after the project is completed, we seek to relieve our clients of any worry about their projects. Buchar, Mitchell, Bajt Architects, Inc. is fully committed to the project for the life of the building. If you ever have questions, we will be available to offer assistance.

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