Having done projects in 10 states now, ZGA uses an architectural design process that is organized so that the highest priorities are addressed and the largest design solutions are arrived at first; then we manage processes in a way that ensures the other details fall into place as your project progresses.
Any project that requires the assistance of an architecture firm is, by its very nature, a large investment. To ensure you get things right, meet your goals, and have a stress-free experience, it pays to work with a team that has more than a 40-year track record of successful building projects across Idaho.
Planning
The planning process, whether for a small site or an entire region, establishes the context for the architectural approach. We routinely provide the following studies and analyses to assist our clients in defining the project objectives and scope
⃝ Master Planning
⃝ Building Evaluation
⃝ Studies for Existing Facilities
⃝ Site Evaluation Studies
⃝ Feasibility Studies
⃝ Adaptive Reuse Analysis
Programming
Programming is the organized method of inquiry leading to the statement of an architectural problem and the requirements to be met in offering a solution. Programming is the analysis while architectural design is the synthesis. The completed program is the guide for the design and ultimate performance of the project. This process consists of the following fundamental activities:
⃝ Establish Goals
⃝ Collect and analyze data.
⃝ Uncover and test concepts
⃝ Determine needs
⃝ State the problem
Project Budgeting and Scheduling Assistance
Successful projects begin with careful planning. ZGA’s team of experts offer numerous planning services, including:
⃝ Building & Master Plans
⃝ Building & Site Analysis
⃝ Feasibility Studies
⃝ Adaptive Use Studies
Concept/Schematic Design
Schematic design establishes the general scope, conceptual design, and scale and relationships among the components of the project. The primary objective is to arrive at a clearly defined, feasible concept and to present it in a form that achieves client understanding and acceptance. The secondary objectives are to clarify the project program, explore the most promising alternative design solutions, and provide a reasonable basis for analyzing the cost of the project.
Design Development
The design development process results in a clear, coordinated description of all design aspects which typically include fully developed floor plans, building sections, and exterior elevations. For important areas or aspects of the building interior elevations, reflected ceiling plans, wall sections, and key details are also developed. The various building systems attributes (structural, mechanical, electrical, telecommunications, fire protection, etc.) are also well defined.
Construction Documents
Construction documentation serves multiple purposes that include the following:
- Communicating to the owner, in detail, what the project involves
- Establishing contractual obligations the owner and contractor owe each other during the construction of a project.
Construction documents describe what is to be built, how contractors are to be selected, and how the contracts for construction will be written and administered. Our process of producing construction documentation results in efficiency, comprehensiveness, and quality.
The architectural and construction information encompasses the quantities, qualities, and configuration of the elements required for the project. Quantities and relationships are described on the drawings while qualities and standards are described in the specifications.
- Drawings: The construction drawings show, in graphic and quantitative form, the extend, configuration, location, relationships, and dimension of the work to be done. They generally contain site and building plans, elevations, sections, details, diagrams, and schedules.
- Specifications: The specifications present written requirements for materials, equipment, and construction systems, as well as standards for products, workmanship, and the construction services required to produce the work.
Construction Administration Services
ZGA has always believed in a proactive approach to construction administration. This involves initiating steps and measures that can produce greater value for the owner and contractor.
To reduce your project’s delivery time, ZGA uses a construction project delivery system known as Design-Build that integrates the design and construction phases of the project. This proven process offers a collaborative style and seamless experience for our clients. ZGA construction services include:
⃝ Design-Build Construction Delivery
⃝ Construction Scheduling
⃝ Cost Control & Budgeting
Historic Preservation
The common goal in all types of historic preservation projects is to maintain the historical integrity of the site, while ensuring it can continue to tell its story and be appreciated by its community for years to come. The restoration, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of historical buildings and landmarks requires special care, and goals for these projects can vary. ZGA has decades of experience preserving historical sites with a variety of scopes, including:
⃝ Careful maintenance
⃝ Major rehabilitation
⃝ Updating safety and comfort features
⃝ Correcting structural deficiencies
Building Permit and Jurisdictional Approvals
Bidding Assistance