Jauregui

Recently I served as moderator for an open mike session that consisted of local chapter AIA members asking questions to a panel of three residential architects and three custom homebuilders.  It was a very successful forum and generated a lot of interest and good will among the two groups. 

I was especially interested in one of the questions from the audience pertaining to Stipulated Sum (Fixed Cost) vs Cost Plus methods of contracting.  Since this is an issue more associated with construction than with design, it’s not an everyday point of conversation among architects and it was interesting to hear the panelists varying opinions.  The audience followed up with questions that drew out more of the respondent’s actual experiences relating to contracts and clients…

Continue reading: Paradigms of Contracting

I recently picked up a course manual from a Design/Build seminar that is sponsored by NAHB.  One of our staff attended and found it interesting and particularly well suited for young professionals still early in their careers. 

The manual outlined the advantages and disadvantages of Design/Build versus design-bid-build delivery systems.  Overall, the assessment of pros and cons was reasonable and for the most part, aligned with our experience and the manner in which we describe and market our services…

Continue reading: Accountability & Liability

One of the biggest fallacies for a lot of architects and designers is expecting the client to provide the extensive detail and specificity that will translate into the new home of their dreams.  In actuality, what the client really needs and ultimately wants from the architect is guidance and leadership through the design process, which can be particularly daunting and overwhelming to the client. 

Achieving a thorough understanding of the design program is imperative.  Rather than assign homework to the client via a multi-page questionnaire, allocate an hour or two to thoroughly discuss the client’s lifestyle, their likes and dislikes, and how they live in their home.  Take them out for drinks or dinner to put them at ease and delve further into the project.  As the expert, you know what you need to know in order to profile your client properly…

Continue reading: What Your Client Really Wants

A successful outcome to a design/build project is as much about contracting smartly as it is about providing professional services.  It’s important to understand what your firm’s focus is and then formulate contracts with terms that reflect the services and product that you choose to provide.  Consumer friendly paperwork will set expectations that this will be a positive experience. 

As a business approach, determine a design niche and be true to your aesthetic ethic.  From your first conversation with a new prospect, begin to ascertain whether the project and client are a good fit for your company.  Not every job is worth your time or liability risk, although we’re all more willing to expand our range in this economic climate.  Learn to trust your sixth sense…

Continue reading: Contracting Smarter