Services

Program Review

& Feasibility Assessment

Desert Peak Architects will review the program provided by clients and assess the feasibility of the project given the conditions of the site, budget and schedule. Site conditions are reviewed simultaneously through Site Surveys, Geo-technical Reports and on-site observations. Once the program has been validated and checked against the conditions of the site, Desert Peak Architects can begin the conceptual design process, also known as Schematic Design.

Schematic Design

& Preliminary Cost Estimate

Multiple solutions to your design problem can be developed in the Schematic Design Phase. Once the site conditions and program have been reviewed, a conceptual plan for your project can be developed. The basic services that Desert Peak Architects provide during the Schematic Design Phase include:

  • Development of a Concept
    • The concept for your project is often brought about as a result of the analysis done during program review and site analysis. Desert Peak Architects strive to drive design through an overarching concept; the concept provides a distinctively unique, yet integrated character to the project.
  • Development of a Single Functional Layout
    • The functional layout for the design presents a feasible path to accomplishing your goals for the project.
    • The layout is indicative of functioning relationships between spaces.
    • The layout begins to recognize relationships between programmed spaces and the site conditions.
  • Production of a Project Narrative
    • The project narrative explains the spatial decisions made within the functional layout
    • Basic ideas for building systems including plumbing, electrical, mechanical and structure are described in narrative form.
  • Preliminary Cost Estimate
    • A preliminary cost estimate for the project is provided at the end of the Schematic Design Phase.
    • The preliminary cost estimate is typically derived by comparing the Schematic Design of the new project with other built projects that are similar in scope and location.
    • The preliminary cost estimate is typically a cost per square foot estimation.
  • Schematic Design drawings typically include: 
    • Site Plan
    • Floor Plans
    • Building Sections
    • Exterior Elevations

Design Development

Upon approval of the Schematic Design Package, the next phase of the design process is Design Development. During the design development phase, decisions made during the Schematic Design Phase are further developed and articulated. During this phase of the project, we work closely with Engineering Consultants to articulate the design of systems outlined in the Schematic Design Phase. The basic services that Desert Peak Architects provide during the Design Development Phase include:

  • Development of Architectural Systems
    • The layout developed in the Schematic Design phase is analyzed for compliance to local and national building codes and requirements.
    • Decisions regarding materiality  and wall assemblies are manifested. These decisions often relate back to the overarching concept and specific requirements involved with the project type.
  • Development of Engineering Systems
    • Information within the Schematic Design narrative regarding Engineering Systems is translated into actual design.
    • We collaborate on a daily basis with Engineering Consultants; it is our duty to inform our consultants of the needs and desires of the client.
    • As different Engineering practices merge together within a project, we review information provided by consultants to identify and resolve any conflicts that arise.
  • Production of Project Documents
    • Project documents are typically delivered to the Client following the Design Development phase for Client review and approval.
    • Design Development documents typically include:
      • Code Analysis indicating that the design complies with current local and national building codes and regulations
      • Site Plans showing proposed connections and relationships to utilities and other site elements.
      • Floor Plans that begin to identify wall assemblies and materials.
      • Building Sections indicating ceiling heights, building heights, the relationship between spaces and other design elements
      • Elevations depicting opening locations, building heights and materiality.
      • Engineering Documents that articulate the design of building systems and show how they relate to other design elements.
  • Updated Cost Estimate
    • An updated cost estimate for the project is provided at the end of the Design Development Phase.
    • The updated cost estimate is typically a cost per square foot estimation.

Construction Documents

The final phase of the Design process is Construction Documents. This phase is typically the longest phase of design, as it aims to articulate the design in terms of individual building elements that contractors can then assign pricing to. Detailed instructions for construction are paired with schedules of equipment, finishes, fixtures etc. Upon approval of the Construction Documents by the Owner, the documents are then typically distributed to multiple contractors for bidding.

  • Construction Documents and Specifications
    • The Construction Documents typically include:
      • Civil Drawings:
        • Site Plans and Site Details
        • Grading Plans
        • Utility Plans
      • Structural Drawings:
        • Slab Plans and Details
        • Framing Plans and Details
      • Architectural Drawings:
        • Site Plans
        • Floor Plans
        • Building Sections
        • Wall Sections
        • Exterior Elevations
        • Interior Elevations
        • Finish Plans
        • Door and Window Schedules
        • Construction Details
      • Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Drawings:
        • Mechanical Plans
        • Electrical Power Plans and Lighting Plans
        • Plumbing Plans and Diagrams
        • Construction Details
      • A Project Manual (Specifications) which denote:
        • Project specific descriptions and Owner requirements
        • Detailed description of products for construction
        • Submittal requirements for Architectural review
        • Warranty requirements
        • Quality Assurance requirements
        • Installation requirements and related procedures
  • Final Cost Estimate
    • An updated cost estimate for the project is provided at the end of the Construction Documents Phase.

Bidding & Negotiations

Desert Peak Architects can assist you during the bidding process in a number of ways, including:

  • Assemble Bidding Documents
  • Establishing Bidding Requirements
  • Announcing the Bid
  • Reviewing Valid Bids
  • Provide Recommendations for Awarding Contractor

Desert Peak Architects are here to help you through the rough times and decisions involved with the construction process, beginning with the Bidding and Negotiation phase. We will help you to make informed decisions when choosing the right Contractor for your project.

Construction Administration

During the construction phase of your project, Desert Peak Architects can perform the following services:

  • Regularly scheduled site observations and reports
  • Regularly scheduled meetings with the Owner and the Contractor
  • Verification of compliance with the Construction Documents

Our clients can rest assured that Desert Peak Architects are working to protect their best interests. Construction can often be stressful and full of surprises; Desert Peak Architects are experienced problem solvers prepared to find solutions to the most difficult problems during construction. We remain vigilant throughout the construction of your project, so you don’t have to!