Designing high-performance workspaces that boost productivity

E3 Architecture’s initial consultation is a free 30-minute online meeting where I will learn more about your project by asking a few questions. And I will answer any questions you have for me. There is no obligation to proceed further.

The main goal of this meeting is to see if I am the right architect for you and your project. If we both feel that is the case, then we can discuss next steps. If it is determined that E3 Architecture is not the best fit for your project, I will follow up with you to recommend some other local architects that may be more suited to help you.

Either way, this meeting will be a valuable use of your time!

E3 Architecture delivers premium services at affordable rates, thanks to an efficient business model that is not burdened with the high overhead costs typical of other architecture firms.

Full architectural design service fees generally range between 5% to 12% percent of the construction cost of the project. A great value when considering that general contractor fees typically range between 10% to 20% of the construction cost.

Once we have had a chance to discuss your project in detail, I will be able to provide you with a more precise estimate. And depending on your preference, E3 Architecture can structure the fees as a fixed sum, or on an hourly basis at a fixed rate.

The investment needed for architectural services primarily depends on the amount of time and effort needed to produce a high-quality and well-documented design. And the amount of time and effort necessary to provide high-quality design services are contingent upon the following factors:

• Project Size - Larger projects will generally have a higher overall fee than similar projects of a smaller size. However, the fee for a larger project will usually be a lower percentage of the cost of construction than a similar project of a smaller size.

• Project Complexity - Unique and innovative projects with highly customized design elements or challenging site conditions, typically require more time and expertise to execute than straightforward projects using conventional construction techniques and materials.

• Engineering + Consultants - Building projects often require the expertise of various specialists that include engineers, designers, and other consultants. The architect will typically hire these consultants and then need to coordinate and integrate their work into the building design. The number of specialists needed, and their scope of services will have a significant impact on the architectural fee.

  For example, a simple interior office renovation may not require any engineering, while a new building or major renovation will need new support structures that require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will also need engineering for the heating, cooling, electrical, and plumbing systems. If there is work being done on the site, the project will likely also require civil engineering and landscaping design.

• Scope of Services - The range of services provided by the architect will also impact the fee. More comprehensive service packages typically result in higher fees. E3 Architecture will provide you with a 3-tiered pricing structure with different service inclusions, so you can choose the right option to meet your design budget.

E3 Architecture understands that budget management is the one of the cornerstones of a successful project outcome. The keys to effective budget management include:

• Early Scope + Budget Alignment - Aligning your budget requirements with the construction cost estimate is one of the most important steps during the initial (Discovery) stage of the design process.

  Other architects will often skip over this step and hastily begin to design without taking the time to fully define the project scope. This is one of the most common reasons projects end up over budget, resulting in delays and costly re-design efforts.

  Taking the time to gather all the information needed to fully establish the project scope allows a construction cost estimate to be established early on.

  It’s far easier and more effective to address any discrepancies between your budget and the construction cost estimate right away before design work begins. In the long run, this will save you time, money, and frustration.

• Regular Cost Evaluations - It’s not enough to align your budget and the construction cost estimate once and then pay no attention to it until the design is complete. It is essential to evaluate the construction cost estimate regularly throughout the design process.

  E3 Architecture will work with the project team to update the budget at each stage of the design process. Together we will revisit how the construction cost estimate has been impacted by the decisions made during each design phase and make adjustments as needed to maintain alignment with your budget.

• Expert Cost Estimating - Architects are not expert cost estimators, so it’s vital to get the right cost experts on the project team at the beginning of the design process. Teaming with a qualified local general contractor will provide realistic cost estimates based on local market conditions.

  If you have an established relationship with a general contractor, I highly recommend bringing them onto the project team as early as possible. If you do not already have an established relationship, I can recommend qualified local general contractors to provide professional cost estimating services for your project. This does not mean that this general contractor must be the one that actually builds your project. It can still be competitively bid if you so choose.

If the budget and construction cost estimate are determined to be out of alignment at any time during the design process, there are strategies that can be utilized to adjust the design and thereby achieve realignment. These strategies include:

• Value Engineering - Significant cost savings can be achieved without compromising quality and functionality. Value engineering involves the analysis of cost-saving strategies that include opting for more cost-effective materials and finishes, simplifying design elements, and implementing more cost-effective design solutions.

• Project Phasing - Breaking the project into two or more phases can effectively realign the budget and cost estimates. Phasing prioritizes critical aspects of the project by completing them first and defers less critical elements for completion at a later time.

E3 Architecture puts a great deal of effort into the design process so that your workspace is optimized for the way your business operates. The amount of time necessary to create a successful design depends largely on the following factors:

• Scope of Services - Feasibility studies and pre-design services can typically be completed in a matter of weeks, but full architectural design services usually take at least a few months to complete.

• Project Size - Smaller projects will generally take less time than larger projects. Larger buildings typically have more complicated heating, cooling, and fire suppression systems that take time to design and coordinate.

• Project Complexity - A relatively small interior office renovation or tenant build out takes much less time to design than a new building, addition, or a major renovation. When the project involves changes to the building exterior, it will usually require zoning approval from the municipality which can sometimes take months to obtain.

• Project Location - Each municipality has its own unique process for zoning approvals and issuing building permits. Some have simple one-step zoning approval processes that can be completed in a few weeks and others require multiple agency approvals that can take 3+ months to complete. The same is true for issuing building permits.

In many ways, you have the most important role of anyone on the project team. Your project cannot reach its full potential without your active involvement. To set your project up for the greatest possible success, I recommend focusing on these key contributions:

• Defining Your Vision - Clearly articulate your goals for the project, any requirements you have relating to the project design, budget and schedule, your aesthetic preferences, and anything else that is important to your project’s ultimate success.

• Providing Information - There are many different types of information that may be needed throughout the course of your project. Site surveys, relevant legal documents, and existing building plans are some common examples. If the process of acquiring this information is unfamiliar to you, I will be happy to help as much as needed.

• Active Participation - Effectively communicating your thoughts and engaging in design meetings are essential for keeping the project aligned with your vision. Providing feedback and making decisions in a timely manner are crucial to keeping the project progressing smoothly and staying on schedule.

Throughout the project I will help to guide you in these key areas, and together we will optimize your space so your business can maximize its potential!

Working for design-build firms for over 17 years taught me just how valuable the right contractor can be.  Not only can they help manage project costs and scheduling from early on, but they also have an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience about how a construction project comes together.

In fact, I advocate for contractor involvement as early as possible in the design process.  E3 Architecture has built strong relationships with some of the top local contractors in southeastern Wisconsin. I can give recommendations for your specific project, but if you have already selected a contractor, I am happy to work with them, too.

Treating the contractor as a vital member of the team and not an adversary, will keep your project progressing smoothly, so you can focus on running your business.

Please feel free to reach out and I will be happy to help answer any additional questions you may have.

You can type your questions into the Contact form below, book a free 30-minute online meeting with me at the link in the navigation bar, or call me directly at (262) - 264 - 8423. Whatever works best for you.