FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing varies by project type. It is usually based on a square footage analysis of the project and then converted to fixed fee. However, some projects are of a size and scope that does not convert easily from square footage. Then I will convert an hourly estimate to a fixed fee.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Typically, I meet with the prospective customer for an hour or two to discuss their project. This first meeting is free. If we feel that we are a good match, I will proceed with putting together a proposal that includes getting fee proposals from consultants if the clients don't already have them. Typically, this is structural engineer and surveyor in the case of residential. In commercial new construction, I add in mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineers. For tenant finish, I usually get pricing for these last three only. Once the proposal is signed and I've received the retainer, I will receive back ground information such as survey or existing drawings. IN the case of renovations, I will measure the house myself. With the back ground drawings, I create drawings that show the existing conditions. I overlay these drawings with the new design as expressed by the client. I present these designs. The owner usually changes a few things, then accepts the design. With that, I distribute backgrounds to the engineering consultants. After we have all done our work to get the drawings ready to go to the building department, I will do a round of quality control to ensure that the drawings are coordinated. Once coordinated, they are delivered to the building department for approval. At approval the contractor usually takes over the project. During construction, I am available on an as-needed basis or I am contractually obligated to provide construction observation depending on the needs of the client.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a master's degree in architecture from the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. I trained for 12 years in New York City before moving to Denver in 1993. I have worked for some of the largest firms here in Denver.