OUR SERVICES

Today, our multi-disciplined staff specializes in several areas, most notably Public Safety Facilities. We have designed facilities across the U.S. including Emergency Services Facilities, 911/EOC communication facilities, Emergency Medical Service Stations, training centers, government complexes, law enforcement facilities and detention centers. Beyond architectural design, we offer our clients services in master planning, space needs studies, long range planning, feasibility studies, interior design, and renovation.

Architectural Design

Architectural design is the process of conceptualizing, planning, and crafting physical structures that meet functional needs while embodying aesthetic, environmental, and cultural considerations. It involves translating ideas into tangible forms, balancing technical requirements with creative expression, and shaping spaces that enhance human experience and interaction with the built environment.

Programming

Programming involves defining the functional requirements and objectives of a project through research, analysis, and client consultation. It encompasses understanding user needs, spatial relationships, site conditions, and regulatory constraints to inform the design process. Programming ensures that architectural solutions effectively address the project's purpose, user experience, and contextual factors, laying the groundwork for the subsequent design phases.

Master Planning

Master planning includes comprehensive long-term planning for large-scale developments or urban areas. It integrates various factors such as land use, infrastructure, transportation, sustainability, and community needs to create a cohesive vision for future growth and development. Master plans establish frameworks for organizing space, defining zoning regulations, and guiding the spatial layout of buildings and public areas. They aim to optimize functionality, connectivity, and livability while preserving environmental quality and cultural identity.

Feasibility Studies

A feasibility study evaluates the viability and potential of a proposed project. It involves analyzing factors such as site conditions, regulatory requirements, budget constraints, and market demand to determine if the project is achievable and financially sustainable. Feasibility studies assess risks, opportunities, and alternatives, providing valuable insights to inform decision-making before committing resources to design and construction. They help stakeholders assess the feasibility of the project's objectives and identify potential challenges and mitigation strategies.

Needs Assessment / Space Planning

Needs assessment include identifying and analyzing the functional requirements, preferences, and constraints of stakeholders to inform the design process. It entails gathering data through surveys, interviews, and observation to understand user needs, spatial usage patterns, and operational requirements. Needs assessment ensures that architectural solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs and aspirations of the end-users, optimizing functionality, usability, and satisfaction. This process serves as a foundation for developing design strategies that address the project's objectives and support the well-being and productivity of occupants.

Space planning seeks organizing interior spaces to optimize functionality, efficiency, and user experience. It includes determining the layout, circulation paths, and spatial relationships to accommodate activities, furniture, equipment, and circulation flows. Space planners consider factors such as ergonomics, accessibility, privacy, and flexibility to create environments that meet the needs of occupants. Through careful analysis and design, space planning maximizes the use of available space while promoting comfort, productivity, and well-being.

Cost Consultation

Cost consultation involves assessing and managing project expenses throughout the design and construction process. It includes estimating costs, developing budgets, and providing financial guidance to ensure projects are completed within budgetary constraints. Cost consultants analyze project requirements, materials, labor, and other factors to identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigate risks. They collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to establish realistic financial plans and monitor expenditures. Cost consultation helps optimize project value while balancing quality, schedule, and financial objectives.

Interior Design

Interior design focuses on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. It involves selecting and arranging furniture, finishes, lighting, and accessories to enhance the user experience and reflect the overall design concept. Interior designers consider factors such as ergonomics, circulation, sustainability, and mood to create harmonious and inviting environments. They collaborate closely with architects, clients, and other stakeholders to ensure that interior spaces align with the project's objectives and user needs. Interior design plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere, functionality, and identity of architectural spaces.

Graphic Design

Graphic design supports the visual communication of information, ideas, and concepts related to architectural projects. It encompasses the creation of visual materials such as renderings, diagrams, signage, and presentations to convey design intent, spatial relationships, and project details. Graphic designers collaborate with architects and other stakeholders to develop cohesive visual identities, branding, and communication strategies for architectural projects. Through typography, imagery, color, and layout, graphic design enhances understanding, engagement, and appreciation of architectural designs, both internally among project teams and externally with clients, users, and the public.

Construction Administration

Construction administration provides overseeing the execution of a project during the construction phase. It includes tasks such as site visits, reviewing contractor progress, resolving issues, and ensuring compliance with design documents and quality standards. Architects act as liaisons between the client, contractors, and consultants, addressing questions, clarifications, and changes as they arise. Construction administration aims to ensure that the project is built according to specifications, within budget and schedule, while maintaining design integrity and meeting regulatory requirements. It plays a crucial role in facilitating communication, resolving conflicts, and ensuring the successful realization of architectural designs.

Animal Care Facility Design

Animal Care Facility focuses on creating spaces tailored to the needs of animals and their caregivers. It encompasses planning and designing shelters, veterinary clinics, laboratories, and other facilities that prioritize animal welfare, hygiene, and safety. Design considerations include proper ventilation, temperature control, noise reduction, and durable materials. Layouts are optimized for efficient workflow, stress reduction, and disease prevention. Animal care facility design aims to create environments that enhance the well-being of animals, facilitate effective care and research, and support the mission of organizations dedicated to animal welfare and conservation.

City of Gastonia Animal Care Enforcement

Renovation / Upfit / Preservation

Renovation is updating or improving existing buildings to meet current needs and standards, often including structural modifications, system upgrades, and aesthetic enhancements. Upfit refers to adapting interior spaces for specific uses, such as offices or retail, through alterations like partitioning, lighting, and finishes. Preservation focuses on maintaining and safeguarding historically significant buildings or elements, often involving restoration, repair, and conservation efforts to retain their original character and cultural value. Together, these approaches allow architects to revitalize and repurpose existing structures while honoring their heritage and contributing to sustainable development.

Expansion / Addition

Expansion may include increasing the size or capacity of an existing structure, often through the construction of new wings, floors, or annexes. It aims to accommodate growth, enhance functionality, or improve spatial relationships while maintaining coherence with the original design. Addition refers to attaching new elements to an existing building, such as annexes, extensions, or supplementary structures, to fulfill specific programmatic requirements or aesthetic objectives. Both expansion and addition strategies allow architects to adapt buildings to evolving needs and contexts, enabling them to remain relevant and functional over time.