OUR PROCESS
Pursuing Form Through Function
Our process begins with YOU!
At AJO, our client-centered process is designed to transform visions into reality through a collaborative and transparent approach. From the initial consultation, we listen closely to understand your goals, needs, and aspirations. We believe that successful projects are built on strong relationships, so we prioritize open communication and regular updates throughout every phase. Our team works diligently to integrate your feedback, ensuring the design reflects your unique identity and functional requirements. Through detailed planning, innovative design, and a commitment to quality, we guide you from concept to completion, creating spaces that exceed expectations and stand the test of time.
INITIAL MEETING
PHONE OR VIDEO CALL
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Discuss project type
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Determine project scope
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Project size and general wishes
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Timeline
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Budget
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Determine level of involvement for Architect
PRE-DESIGN: CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
TYPICALLY 2 WEEKS
*Signed contract with retainer
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Site walk to review existing conditions (if applicable)
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As-Built measurements (if applicable)
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Order Survey (Owner)
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Order Soils Report (Owner)
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Preliminary design meeting
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Determine design criteria: project style, project size, scope, program, finishes, number of stories, etc.
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Determine if we need a Contractor on-board
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Initial Code & Zoning Analysis
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Begin building conceptual 3-D model and preliminary floor plans
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Meet as required until concept model meets owner's desires
PHASE 1: SCHEMATIC DESIGN
TYPICALLY 3-4 WEEKS
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Rough shape of the building and ideas are formed
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Review a couple of different design options
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Make revisions as necessary
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Schematic Site Plan
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Schematic Floor Plans
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Sketch Elevations / 3D Views
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Preliminary Cost Estimate
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Owner approval to proceed to next phase
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Meet as required until schematic model meets owner's desires
TYPICALLY 3-4 WEEKS
PHASE 2: DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
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Finalize building location on site
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Begin developing 1/4" scale drawings of the site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, etc.
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Preliminary development of necessary details
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Finalize room sizes and location
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Finalize exterior form and begin diving into materiality
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Interior finishes
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Bring on necessary consultants (Structural, Mechanical, etc.)
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Begin building specifications and finish schedules
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Review and update budget (as necessary)
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Owner approval to proceed to next phase
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Meet as required until drawings meet owner's requirements
TYPICALLY 4-6 WEEKS
PHASE 3: CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
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Finalize 1/4" drawings of the site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, details, etc.
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Incorporate consultant drawings into the final set
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Electrical / Lighting Plans
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Finalize specifications
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Finalize schedules (door, window, hardware, plumbing, lighting, finish, appliance, etc.)
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Review and update budget (as necessary)
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Owner approval to proceed to next phase
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Meet as required until drawings meet the building department's requirements.
PHASE 4: CONSTRUCTION ADMIN
*OPTIONAL
This is a crucial part of the process and we strongly advocate being involved during construction. Not only does it ensure that all of the hard work we put in designing your vision is executed properly and to the drawings, but we also find it holds the Contractor to a higher standard of quality.
Invariably, there are things that we are just not able to draw or anticipate during the Construction Documents phase. Involving us in the Construction Admin phase allows the project design vision to be integrated into the details of the home seamlessly. Architects and Contractors think very different - which is good - but not every Contractor's decision balances function and aesthetics.
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Architect acts as your on-site agent
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Monitor progress in build
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Develop additional drawings as requested by Contractor
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Ensure construction conforms with contract documents