MP ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

ANATOMY of a PROJECT

WHAT WORKING WITH AN ARCHITECT WILL BE LIKE

PRE-PROJECT

Your project starts with an initial introductory meeting.  In this meeting we'll get to know each other and discuss what you're looking for in hiring an Architect.  All you need to do to book this is to fill out the contact form here OR send an email to architect@michaelcporter.com.

 

If you are within the Polk County this meeting is complementary.  If you are in the surrounding counties I ask for a flat fee of $100.  If you are further than the surrounding counties, I request a non-refundable fee of $50/hr, based on the estimated travel time from Google Maps and one hour for our meeting.

To make this meeting the most productive you will receive a list of items that when provided will give each other the clearest picture of how to achieve a suceessful project.  These items are:

 

Architect Provided:

1) A sample Owner-Architect contract

2) A sample project timeline

 

Owner Provided:

1) Site location

a) Survey

b) Site Photos

2) Desired square footage and basic project description. EX. 2,500 SQ FT 4/2 split level home OR modern Peruvian restaurant to seat 100 in existing space (tenant improvement)

3) Desired style.  Bring pictures, floor plans, magazine cut-outs, etc...

DUE DILIGENCE to SCHEMATIC DESIGN

Due Dilligence is a phase where initial research is done to what is allowable by code and the physical restrictions of the site.  One does not want to wait until the permitting process to find out your land isn't buildable or the design will require significant changes to conform to zoning requirements.

Schematic Design consist primarily of producing a floor plan of your project.  Each project being different may require additional drawings in addition to the preliminary floor plan.  Such items may be elevations or sections of your project.

BELOW: SITE WITHIN LAKELAND

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT to CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

Design Development is the stage at which the major systems are decided upon for your project.  At this time consulting engineers and other specialties are included in the process.  An outline of the major drawings is produced and should you choose to involve a contractor, pricing can be developed.

Construction Documents are the final phase of the design process.  All details necessary for permitting and construction are drawn and determined.  The drawings are signed and sealed to be turned into the permitting authority.

BIDDING AND BEYOND

Bidding is a critical part of any project.  Whether you can afford it or not is determined.  As an Architect, I can provide you with services to understand and organize contractor bids.  My knowledge of construction practices allow me to compare "apples to apples" and picking the best bid and contractor for the job.  If engaged for the bidding process I will solicit bids from local known contractors and organize the bids into a uniform bidding system.

Beyond bidding is construction services.  During construction I act as your representative ensuring that you receive the construction you contracted them for.  I will conduct routine reviews of construction and process pay requests from the contractor.  Without an Architect you're at the mercy of the contractor telling you how far your dollar goes.  With an Architect, I will work to ensure that your money goes into your project and not padding the contractor's profit.

(C) 2018, MICHAEL PORTER, AR98687