ANALYSIS

• Zoning Analysis: Utilizing a Survey / Plot Plan of your property is a key component to establish the parameters of a project. Our office will identify and plot the existing conditions, specific code requirements and identify the proposed limits and bulk area for proposed options. The intention of this service is to understand the project’s physical limitations and identify any negative conditions that may obstruct the desired project scope.

• Building Code Analysis: The required construction codes to be followed depend on the state where the project is located and the type of project itself. M3A will verify the full project scope and identify the appropriate Construction Codes to review and apply to the project. A thorough building code analysis will determine all systems, materials, methods and rules that are necessary and/or permissible to include in permit documentation drawings.

• Construction Cost Analysis: M3A can provide review of contractor’s issued Construction Cost Estimates, or Proposals, for individual projects. If a Bidding and Negotiations Phase is included in provided services our office will request that all contractors bidding on the project provide a thorough line item breakdown outlining all construction hard and soft costs for your project. M3A will collect pricing info and provide a side-by-side analysis of individual contractor line items to establish cost differences and/or similarities between all bidders.

• Project Process Analysis: M3A can help establish what will be required to obtain the desired scope of your project, through Project Process Analysis. This can include, but not be limited to, researching pre-requisite information, identifying required consultants, identifying necessary meetings or verifying required submittal materials. The purpose of this analysis is to help you understand what processes you need to follow or satisfy to fulfill your desired project scope.

DESIGN

• Schematic Design: is the first phase of the Architectural Design Process. During this Phase we listen and ask our clients’ specific questions to help determine the overall desired scope of work and goals for their project. This is important to be able to develop a proposal for services that is both thorough and accurate. We analyze the identified programming pieces and translate them into architectural spatial designs for review and coordination. Through plan and/or elevation drawings, we visually express the programming and work with our clients to develop and finalize the design. The goal is to provide design documents that demonstrate our clients’ programming needs at a high level of satisfaction before moving on to the next phase.

• Design Development: is supplemental to the Schematic Design Phase. This collaborative phase often includes the Architect, Client, Consultants and Contractor to develop and finalize construction materials, systems and specialties for the project. The goal is to finalize the extended scope of design to ensure efficient transition to subsequent project phases.

DOCUMENTATION

• As-Built Survey: M3A will visit your project site to observe, photograph and physically measure the project elements to aid in development of drawings representing your existing conditions. Laser measurement devices and laptop computers are utilized to document while onsite to ensure thoroughness. As-Built Survey and documentation often includes, but not limited to,  measurement of walls, doors, windows, elevation heights and any special conditions to generate existing floor plans and elevations. Observations include review of exposed systems, structure, finishes and site amenities.

• Construction Documentation: Upon client approval of the Schematic Design, M3A will proceed to the development of these final, thorough and inclusive drawings. Construction documents, or Permit Documents, include extensive information needed for contractors to bid on and build from and for local municipalities to perform their permit review process. This information will vary between commercial and residential scopes and upon project scope size.  Information often includes General Project Information, Code Analysis, Site Plans and Zoning Analysis, Floor Plans, Elevations, Sections, Door, Window and Finish Schedules. Depending on the project, the documents may also include Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire coordination drawings.  M3A will collaborate with you and your consultants during this phase to ensure coordination of documents to satisfy the permit submittal and review process with local authorities.

CONSULTING

• Construction Administration: M3A will work directly with you, your contractor and local officials to finalize the permit submittal and review process to aid in obtaining permits to commence construction of your project. M3A will directly address any and all contractor or local authority questions through email correspondence or through the issuance of response letters, itemizing the specific questions. We make ourselves available for any requested project meetings or to address any desired field changes to the project scope. The intention is to promote open communication between the entire project team to efficiently address any project issues and to ensure an overall smooth and efficient construction process.

• Owner Representation: M3A understands that clients often do not have the time or experience to oversee the involved construction process and / or project team. M3A doesn’t have to be your primary Architect, we can serve as your independent, personal representative to manage your budget, schedule, ongoing project issues and the relationships between your design professionals, construction companies and construction officials so you don’t have to.