Architectural Services

InForm Architecture has extensive experience in a broad range of project types. Although we customize the design process for each client and each project, the following are typical components of our process:

Visioning

We begin the visioning process with group exercises developed specifically for each project. We encourage participation a broad spectrum of project stakeholders. The visioning process is highly participatory and can be designed to involve as many people as the client deems appropriate. The outcome of this process is a project vision statement, a design statement and a series of words and or images that describe the project goals.

Needs Assessment & Program Development

The needs assessment process begins with a series of discussions designed to determine your facility space requirements. We work with the project development team both individually and as a group to gather all relevant information necessary to begin the project. We ask about staffing requirements, growth projections, adjacency requirements, specific furniture needs and equipment and technology requirements. Based on this information, we develop a program document that describes each space within the facility, including it’s size, the required adjacency to other spaces, furniture needs, mechanical and electrical needs and any other special considerations. A design statement outlining the aesthetic goals of the project is also included.

Master Planning is the process of developing a multiple step plan to implement a project over a period of time. Often a multiple phase project is needed for financial reasons or if planning for future growth. We take the information contained in the Program Document and work with client representatives to identify current, near term and long term needs. We break the project down into phases, identify an ideal time line for these phases, and develop block plans to visualize the phasing. Factors such as ease of future construction, future utility needs, future parking needs and proper building function during intermediate phases are also considered.

Schematic Design and Space Planning

Schematic Design is the actual layout of spaces within a new or renovated facility. Based on the Program Document and informed by the vision and design statements, a space plan is developed in conjunction with exterior building massing and the site plan. Multiple alternatives will be explored in the design process, and several may be presented to the project development team for discussion and input. We regularly use both two and three dimensional drawings and computer modeling. This is a very interactive process, typically through a series of working sessions with client representatives.

Design Development

After thoroughly exploring options in the Schematic Design process, and reviewing the pros and cons of each, our project team in works with owner representatives to determine the most appropriate design direction. In the Design Development phase, this selected direction is further developed, mechanical and electrical systems defined, materials and products researched and selected, finishes chosen, and details worked out. Client representatives are consulted and kept informed of the status of the process at regular intervals during this phase.

Construction Documentation

After completion of the Design Development process, most major building decisions have been made. The Construction Documentation process develops the drawings and written specifications that document these decisions and define the expected level of performance and quality. The documents are used for the bidding process, for municipal reviews, for permitting, and to guide the construction process.

Construction-phase Services

During the construction process, we visit the site on regular intervals to review the construction progress and make sure the construction meets the design intent. We are also available to answer questions from the field, to review shop drawings and to approval applications for payment from the contractor. At the completion of construction, we will prepare a punch list, documenting any corrections required of the contractor prior to final payment. We will then follow through with the contractor until all corrections are appropriately made.