Douglas Architecture offers a range of services including
- Feasibility analysis
There are many reasons why a project may not be feasible. DA can help you understand the zoning, building condition, and general cost implications that may limit a potential project before making a substantial investment in the design of the project.
- Building survey
DA can provide accurate Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) drawings of your building by reproducing legacy drawings, measuring your building in person, or combining these techniques to create accurate ‘as-built’ drawings.
- Zoning code analysis
Most municipalities have specific restrictions that limit what can be built on a site in their jurisdiction, where on the site it can go, how big it can be, and what activities can take place there. DA can show you what your legal options are for developing a site with a renovation or new construction.
- Building code analysis
While a zoning code specifies what can be built on a given site, the applicable building code specifies how it must be built. In particular, the intent of the building code is to protect human health and safety by regulating things like fire separation, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
- Building permit coordination
Most building construction requires a permit. DA can help you understand whether your project will require a permit from the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and prepare the necessary drawings and documentation if so. DA can act as the civic liaison to interact with the AHJ until your permit is in hand.
- Design consultation
If you’re not ready to begin a full design process, or just have specific questions related to an intended design, DA can provide consulting services on an hourly basis.
- Program development
A program is a comprehensive list of requirements that a design must satisfy to succeed. The design and construction of a building is a big investment, so getting the program right–not leaving out anything needed and not including anything unneeded–is essential to keeping your budget in check and to ending up with a successful design.
- Construction drawing preparation
A complete set of construction drawings is essential for getting accurate construction bids and ensuring that the end result matches the client’s requirements, down to the smallest detail.
- Construction administration
When construction begins, there are often questions that the builder has about the design, since even the most complete drawings can’t cover every possible question that might arise in the field. DA uses industry-standard processes to address these questions and to make sure the contractor is paid in proportion to the percentage of completion of the project.
- Post-occupancy evaluation
After the design is complete, the construction is complete, and the building is occupied, how do you know whether the building has successfully fulfilled the program and is working at peak efficiency? The best way to do this accurately is to perform a post-occupancy evaluation. DA can facilitate this process and provide a report outlining any needed remediation.
- Forensic analysis
Why does the building leak? Why is it so hard to keep it warm? Are the stairs built to code? These are some of the questions that DA can address, either directly or in coordination with specialized consultants, to answer your questions when things go wrong with your building.
- General drafting
DA can provide general drafting services in a variety of CAD formats, including 2D and 3D models.