FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Our fees are typically around 8% to 12% of the overall construction budget. These fees flex up and down depending on project scope and complexity, but this is a good rule of thumb.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After an initial phone call and site visit (if applicable, we provide a fully detailed proposal outlining all of the services we provide and how much our costs will be. Once we're in design, most projects follow a fairly standard process: Step 1: Schematic Design Once you have determined what is to be built, we will create basic drawings that describe the general arrangement of rooms and of the site. These are not “finished” designs - they’re simply meant to show possible approaches for you to consider. Step 2: Design Development This step is when the we prepare more detailed drawings to illustrate other aspects of the proposed design. The plans show all the rooms in the right size and shape, and we start to develop major materials and finishes. Step 3: Construction Documents This is when we prepare detailed drawings and specifications that the contractor will use to establish a real construction cost and build the project. Step 4: Permitting Permitting is the process of preparing permit applications and paperwork for the authority having jurisdiction over your project (sometimes called “the city” or “the county”) in order to gain approval for building. If desired, we will submit our drawings, specifications, and other required forms. Step 5: Construction This is when your project moves from an abstraction to a physical reality. Our involvement normally does not stop when the construction documents are finished - we also provide construction administration services. These usually include making site visits and answering questions that arise.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Both of the co-founders of the firm, Adam Lawler and Solomon Berg, hold advanced degrees in architecture. Adam is licensed in Oregon and Washington, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies degree from Washington State University, as well as a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Oregon in Portland. Solomon attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where he received a professional bachelors degree in Architecture. A decade was spent in San Francisco in the offices of HOK and BAR Architects.