Architects play a crucial role in shaping the built environment, and they have the opportunity to offer various valuable services to their clients, going beyond the basics. While providing the fundamental architectural services is essential, offering additional services can enhance the level of service and value architects provide to their clients. Let’s explore the basic and additional services architects can offer:
Basic Services:
- Programming: This initial phase involves understanding the project’s scope, client requirements, and objectives without developing any actual designs.
- Schematic Design: Creating basic building forms through sketches and conceptual drawings to visualize the project’s layout.
- Design Development: Refining the initial concepts, selecting materials, and finalizing the design.
- Construction Documents: Preparing detailed drawings and documents required for construction.
- Construction Administration: Acting as the owner’s representative during construction, ensuring the project is executed as per the design.
Additional Services:
- Alternative Project Delivery Selection: Advising clients on different project delivery methods beyond the standard options like design-bid-build or design-build.
- Record Drawings: Creating accurate documentation of existing buildings, helpful for future development or renovation projects.
- Sustainable Design: Offering services related to environmentally-conscious design, energy analysis, and sustainability certifications.
- Urban Design: Extending architectural services to encompass urban planning and designing cohesive spaces within the city context.
- Bidding/Negotiating/Price Discussions: Assisting clients in negotiating project costs, ensuring they get the best value for their investment.
- Project Management: Taking on coordination tasks or advising clients on project-related matters throughout the construction phase.
- 3D Renderings: Providing realistic and visually appealing 3D models and renderings to help clients visualize the final design.
- Feasibility Studies: Evaluating the viability and potential success of a project before committing resources.
- Mixed-Use Architecture: Specializing in designing buildings with multiple uses, creating vibrant and integrated spaces.
- Site Selection: Assisting clients in choosing the most suitable location for their building based on various factors.
- Building Condition Audits: Assessing the condition of existing buildings, identifying potential issues, and recommending improvements.
- Full-Time Site Representation: Offering continuous on-site presence for more complex projects or legal needs.
- Electrical Schematics: Providing detailed electrical drawings as an additional service.
- Cabinetry Elevations: Offering high-detailed drawings for cabinetry layout and design.
- Multiple Contract Preparation: Assisting clients in preparing various contracts related to the project with different entities.
- Interior Design: In-house interior design services, ensuring a cohesive and complete project design.
Remember, the inclusion of additional services may vary from architect to architect, based on their expertise and strengths. Clients should thoroughly review the contract to ensure the inclusion of both the basic and additional services they require for their project.
By offering a comprehensive range of services, architects can cater to their clients’ unique needs and deliver exceptional results while generating additional revenue opportunities.
