AV Office: 18484 US Highway 18 Suite 290 Apple Valley CA 92307

Architectural Services

Asking the right questions is best way to find solutions with  predictable outcomes. Architectural and Engineering services listed below vary depending on Client needs and programming.

RDA Architect Project

Pre-Design (PD):
"Look before you leap"

Programming phase; preliminary research,establish Clients functional needs,aesthetic goals and general construction budget. Review proposed building use, spatial needs, user/staff interview, building code, zoning, site analysis/photo shoot (what is the site offering for free and what are its restrictions). This is sometimes known as the “problem discovery” phase, because the proper identification of this information is where the Client and Architect find a basis of critique for the basis of design.

  • Develop Architectural Program
  • Review Site and Development Code Entitlements
  • Secure Topographic Survey of property
  • Review Preliminary Title Report
RDA Architect Project

Schematic Design (SD):
“Get the big idea”

The first stage of design: prepare the Client brief, which is a record of the Client’s requirements and goals for the project as developed in PD. Concepts are explored which look at spatial, circulation and functional relationships of the various stakeholders. Prepare schematic diagrams giving a general view of key components and scale of the project.

Review, consider and recommend design strategies.

Provide Client the opportunity to verify that the Architect has correctly interpreted the Client’s desired functional relationships between various activities and provides the Client with a general indication of the exterior design dialogue.

RDA Architect Project

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Design Development (DD): “Bring the idea into focus”

Transitional phase in which the design moves from SD phase towards the contract document phase. Preparation of drawings, rendering and other presentation documents to crystallize the design concept. Architect to review key building systems with technical consultants such as electrical, mechanical, structural, civil or others as necessary. The design drawings that result may be used gaining Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) preliminary planning approval and for obtaining budgetary advice from a builder.

  • AHJ  Preliminary Review
  • Builders cost estimate
  • Lender preliminary review
  • Working Drawings and Specifications move to CD Phase
  • Marketing instruments available
RDA Architect Project

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Construction Documents (CD’s):
“Engineer and detail the project for construction”

Once the (DD) drawings have been approved by Client and other key stakeholders, the Construction Documents are prepared. CD phase, consisting of Working Drawings and Specifications, finalize design details and substantially integrate the Architectural Design elements with the Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and other systems for the project. Once completed, the Construction Documents provide information to secure funding, the Contractor’s bids, apply for Building permit and serve as the contractual basis for a construction contract between Owner and Contractor.

Coordinate and finalize Architectural, Engineering and Consultant drawings

Complete the Working Drawings and Specifications ready for AHJ plan check and permit application.

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Bidding & Negotiation (BN) : “Arriving at a contract for construction”

Generally, the shortest phase of architectural process. If the project is to be delivered via formal bid, competitive bids are solicited from a number of Contractors after the CD’s are completed. Client has option of accepting one of the bids as given, rejecting all bids, or negotiating a modified bid with one of the bidders. Client is not obligated to accept the lowest bid, nor obligated to accept any.  Traditionally, the Client is seeking “the lowest, responsible bid“. 

Prepare the Bid Form and “Instruction to Bidders”

Prepare addenda or clarifications as necessary during BN

Private or Public Bid Opening

Review Bids for conformance with “Instruction to Bidders”

Assist Client in Contractor Selection

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Contract Administration (CA):
“Executing the plan”

Periodic visits of job site to review the progress of construction and observe the Contractor’s execution of the work to verify that it is in substantial conformance with the CD’s. This phase includes answering questions, problem resolution, reviewing minor change requests and any adjustments required to complete the project. Review Contractor pay/draw requests according to agreement and advise Client if the progress payment requests are in line with the visible progress of construction.

  • Architect may act as liaison between Client and Contractor
  • Periodic construction observation
  • Review shop drawings and material submittals
  • Construction question clarification
  • Change order review and negotiation.
  • Assist Client with punch list, final walk through and project close out

Electrical, Plumbing and other systems for the project. Once completed, the Construction Documents provide information to secure funding, the Contractor’s bids, apply for Building permit and serve as the contractual basis for a construction contract between Owner and Contractor.

Coordinate and finalize Architectural, Engineering and Consultant drawings

Complete the Working Drawings and Specifications ready for AHJ plan check and permit application.