Needs and Options Review

Pre-Design

We cannot provide you with a proposal for Design Services without some level of understanding of the existing conditions, programatic needs and project goals.  To that end we begin each project with a low commitment contract in the form of a Needs and Options Review

Undergoing a thorough analysis of all of the issues impacting a design project is a common sense approach that is often ignored in lieu of moving quickly.  Understandably, the larger and more complex the project, the more important it becomes that this due diligence is completed before undertaking any design work. 

Once the Needs and Options Review is completed, reviewed and understood we can provide you with a formal proposal for design services.

We have also provided Pre-Design services to those considering the purchase of a property.  These services can provide a potential buyer with the necessary knowledge to avoid a property that in the end cannot accommodate their needs, present or future.

Review Components

  • Reorganization / Expansion
  • Additional Room Types
  • New Areas Needed for New Activities
  • Improved Circulation
  • Accessibility Improvements
  • Aesthetic Improvements
  • Structural Upgrades
  • Environmental Upgrades
  • Permitted Uses (if change of use or expansion)
  • Bulk Zoning Regulations
    • Building Setbacks
    • Height Restrictions
    • Lot Coverage Restrictions
    • Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Restrictions
    • Accessory Structure Regulations
    • Corner and Thru-Lot Regulations
  • Parking Requirements
  • Historic Committee Requirements
  • Existing Non-conforming Conditions
  • Topography Issues
    • Views
    • Steep Slope Regulations
    • Rock Outcroppings
  • EPA Restrictions
  • Protection or Removal of Trees
  • Utility, Egress or Parking Easements
  • Soft Costs
    • Architect
    • Other Professionals (Engineers, etc.)
  • Municipal Fees
    • Permits
    • Board Applications
  • Construction Costs
    • Based on Area
    • Based on Complexity
    • Based on Level of Finish
  • Design Phase
  • Zoning or Planning Boards
  • Bidding Phase
  • Permitting
  • Target Start Date
  • Duration of Construction
  • Use of Property During Construction