Working Point: Values in Architecture

Why (sometimes) I'm Embarrassed to an Architect

2012-03-06T13:18:00.001-08:00

Howard Roark, the architect/ protagonist in Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead, famously says, “I have clients to practice architecture. I don’t practice architecture to have clients.” The implication is that for many architects, having clients is a means to their own ends. We invest many years in training and apprenticeship. We take a grueling series of exams. Stir in utopian tendencies and strong imaginations and you have a profession that is very sure that it knows best when it comes to designing and constructing buildings.

The characterization of architects as aloof and arrogant is, unfortunately, well-earned. A congruous proclivity is perpetually invoke how erudite we are. We like to show people how smart we are. Too often we approach a client with the attitude of, “You’re doing it all wrong. Here, let me show you how you should do it.” Rather than be helpful, we hector.

Don’t get me wrong, you want your architect to be knowledgeable, experienced and talented. But an architect’s true value to you is their ability to lend those collective resources to your mission -- to take on your agenda as if it’s their own. The right architect for you is the one you believe “gets you,” who serves up that knowledge experience and talent in a way that is consistent with the culture of your organization.

If someone “proves” that they know more than you, you might respect them, but not trust them. I want Blue Ridge Architects to be respected, but more importantly I want us to be group of people you can trust.

What to Know Before You Build

2012-02-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

If you run a busy organization, the thought of launching a building project might seem overwhelming. Maybe you’ve heard stories about design and construction projects where costs run amok, schedules drag out and the building doesn’t operate correctly when you move in. Cost, complexity, risk and busyness are all reasons for putting off the hassle of tackling a building project

Many people believe they have to know what they need before they talk to an architect. In reality there are only four things you need to know before you talk to an architect:

What are the symptoms? -- Doctors want you describe symptoms, not tell them what operation or prescription you think you need. Architects are the same way. Tell us what isn't working; what activities don’t have space; whose office is in the former janitor’s closet; what building systems don’t work anymore.
What are your priorities? – How are the current “symptoms” derailing your strategic objectives? What are the mission-critical tasks that are hindered by your facilities? Our diagnosis begins with making sure we understand your mission and strategic plan.
How much can you spend? – Typical operating budgets can’t carry the cost of building. Having a clear picture of what you can borrow or raise in a capital campaign is crucial. If you don’t know, we can help with rules-of-thumb and our knowledge of the lending market.
How quickly do you need the solution? – The more time you have the more options you can consider. Acute situations can determine what type of project delivery you choose. Schedule can shape discussions about renovation vs. building new.

Typically there is more than one building solution for any given set of symptoms. The right solution will be the one that best addresses your priorities given the time and money you have to invest.

Blue Ridge Architects would love to hear about your aches and pains. Our prescription pad is ready.

Proud to Provide Design Solutions

2012-02-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

Architect Audrey Matlock, speaking at a conference on innovation, is quoted, “Today in the U. S. it’s no longer ‘can-do,’…In other countries, they talk about design ideas. Here we have ‘design solutions.’”[1] At Blue Ridge Architects we talk a lot about “design solutions” so I felt a bit defensive when I read this. We believe a focus on design solutions, rather than innovation for innovation’s sake is good thing

Our firm values call for buildings to be functional and affordable. While there may be clients who have the luxury of creating iconic buildings at the expense functionality and affordability, the majority expect architects to be careful stewards of their resources. It is our attention to function and cost that earns us the right to suggest new forms, materials and approaches to building.

Another of our core values is that buildings should be progressive:

The desire to see and do things in a new way is a by-product of the hope we all need to live and thrive. Even as we find formal and symbolic ways to build links to the past, we anticipate the future with better technology and spaces that welcome our changing patterns of living.

Practical design solutions are not the enemy of innovation or aesthetically pleasing buildings. Rather it is the ability to do both that makes architects a vital part of the building process.

[1] Architectural Record, December 2011

Avoid Costly Surprises

2012-01-31T08:34:00.000-08:00

Your building project is going to cost what it costs. The only question is do you want to know early in the project, when you can do something about it, or do you want to wait until the very end when the last invoice and the last application for payment has been submitted?

Being surprised by the final cost of a building project is usually the result of:

An unrealistic belief that there is “secret sauce” for getting a bargain on a building project
A lack of understanding about the complete and true cost of a building project

Bargain-seekers often use a contractor with “low-overhead.” This usually means the contractor doesn’t have the staff, procedures or experience to adequately manage the complexities of most commercial or institutional projects. This results in poor coordination of trades, failure to get timely decisions from the building owner and inadequate oversight of sub-contractors and vendors. The result is change orders at the end of the project.

Others are tempted to rationalize understating the scope of work on a building permit application to avoid meeting current standards for fire-alarms, sprinkler and handicapped accessibility.When inspectors discover the deception (and they will), the owner pays a premium for rushed work and lost time.

Three years into the Great Recession, many owners still believe the down economy means there are “hungry” contractors who will do work at steep discounts. The hungry contractors have either adjusted their business model or gone out of business. Those that remain have the same higher material costs and have to pay fair wages for skilled workers. Owners end up paying more and getting less when they employ people who will work for less than what they’re worth.

Unfortunately, all this wishful thinking is aided and abetted by building professionals who don’t educate owners about the true cost of a building project. The cost of the building itself is often only 2/3rds of the total cost. Site work, which can be 20% of a project’s cost, is often not included when contractors are talking about costs-per-square foot. Furnishings, signage, data cabling, and security are often costs excluded from construction contracts and can be 15% or more of the project cost.

Being realistic about what buildings cost at the onset of a building project will make the process much less stressful and give owners confidence, at the end of a project, that they received full value for their investment.

Blue Ridge Architects takes budgeting seriously and is available, at no charge, for a one-time consultation on what your project will cost. We deliver lasting value that exceeds the cost of our services.

Healing Buildings

2011-07-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

Grayson Highland State Park

What would it mean to create “healing buildings?” I believe that well-designed buildings make people more productive, protect their health and can support a positive, hopeful attitude. But I’ve always seen the role of the human-made physical environment in a passive, “first-do-no-harm” kind of way. Having grown up in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, I find what humans build to be a pale imitation of the mountains, fields, forests and streams crafted by God. The story arc of God interacting with His creation begins in the Garden of Eden but ends in a new city – the New Jerusalem. So maybe there is a role for building that goes beyond mere shelter and utility and includes healing the brokenness we all have in some form.

The person who got me thinking about this, again, is Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms. Utilizing nature’s template for farming, their approach recognizes the inter-connectedness found in growing healthy, wholesome plants and animals. Their website proclaims that they are in the business of, “healing the land, healing the food, healing the economy, and healing the culture.”

Green roof at Nationals Park, Washington, DC

There is an analogous way of thinking about how and what we build. Most of the green building movement is about limiting the damage done by modern building methods. I believe we can move beyond a “limiting damage” mentality to one where what we choose to build and how we go about it can make us better people. It begins with question, “Do we need to build?” If the answer is yes, then come discussions about scale and context – what does the size and locations of our building(s) say about our values and priorities? The techniques we employ should harness the natural forces of sun, wind and rain and utilizing these forces, not overcoming them with brute force -- making us constantly aware of the cycles of the natural environment – a connection with creation that can be healing. Such questions are only the beginning; the conversation can and should go on.

By more carefully considering what and where and how we build we will inevitability question our values and purposes – discussion that can transform communities and culture. The act of building can be either be an expression of our brokenness as human or demonstration of our faith and hope in a redemptive future.

Buy Local

2011-06-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

Friendly City Food Co-op -- Designed by Blue Ridge Architects and constructed by Harman Construction

The Friendly City Food Co-op just opened in Harrisonburg. While an emphasis on organic foods caters to my wife’s concern for our health, I like knowing that much of the food is from local sources. Locally-sourced food requires less energy, chemicals and “extraordinary measures” to get to my table The money I spend is more likely to be re-spent locally benefitting the local economy and local government. Design and construction work the same way. When you use local contractors, architects and engineers, you get increased accountability and a more economically stable community.

Financing, designing and constructing a building is ripe with opportunities for the participants to manipulate and, in some instances, rip-off each other.Working with people you went to school with, see at soccer games and church or for whom you want to work again, creates a built-in protection against fraud. There still needs to be a disciplined approach to contracts and project management. Familiarity can also create a “good ol’ boy” system that benefits a select group of business persons at the expense of the whole community. But in an area like the Shenandoah Valley, reputations are hard-won and tradespeople and professionals work hard to protect them with consistent high quality, value-added work.

If you hire an architect or contractor from a distant area your fees go to supermarkets, golf courses, gas stations, banks, etc. in another community. The taxes paid by out-of-town experts go to other local governments to fund their roads, schools and police departments.Their donations go to charities that do not benefit the needy in your town.

It’s easy to believe your local professionals can’t possibly have the knowledge, experience and skill to help your business. Often being able to hire a national expert validates that your company or organization has “arrived.” But even if your local architect doesn’t seem to have what you need, teaming a national expert with a local professional is a good way to make sure you get the cutting-edge knowledge with local service and location-appropriate application.

Contact Blue Ridge Architects. You’ll be surprised at the level of experience available right here in the Shenandoah Valley and the relationships we’ve built through 23 years of practice. Through careful team-building we can deliver market-leading expertise delivered with local accountability.

Competitive Bidding -- When the Loser Wins

2011-06-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Mel McGowan of Visioneering Studios described selecting a general contractor (GC) through competitive bidding as the only process where the Loser wins. In competitive bidding, GC’s often have to employ tactics that cost them money and put the Owner at risk:

They give away most, if not all, of their profit; and, hence, most of their motivation.
They find mistakes and omissions in the drawings and figure out what those are worth and lower their bid accordingly figuring they’ll be able to charge a premium through change orders.
If they their bid “wins” they may buy-out a sub-contractor. This means the GC does the work that the sub contractor would have done and reaps the profit that would have otherwise gone to the sub. For the Owner it’s bait and switch.

There will always be some projects that have to be competitively bid. It is the only 100% objective way to compare contractors. When public (taxpayer) funds are involved, accountability is paramount and, therefore, only a 100% objective process will do. Any distinction that one GC has that would add value to the project – experience, technology, creativity, organization, excellent safety record, etc. – is excluded from the selection process.

The general contractor loses because, if awarded the job, he will have to do the work for the least profit. But the real loser is the Owner because, when someone is working for little or no profit, their only motivation will be cut corners and find ways to add cost to the building.

There are other ways to select a general contractor that rewards to the GC for helping the Owner be successful. If you want to learn how to choose a general contractor in a way that maximizes value for the Owner, contact us at Blue Ridge Architects.

Stewardship is more than Fundraising

2011-04-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

“Why is an architect talking about stewardship?” asked a pastor recently when I talked to him about a workshop we’re planning. The pastor continued, “Stewardship means fundraising to most people.” I was caught off guard because; for me, Christian stewardship means caring for and using God’s creation in a way that furthers His kingdom and His purpose. This more holistic notion of stewardship is how I link my occupation (architect) with my vocation (follower and disciple of Christ).


A team from Engineering Ministries Int'l at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya

I was raised in a church tradition that historically was populated by farmers and tradespersons. The “can-do,” practical nature of these people equipped them to live out their faith in heroic acts of international relief for refugees, response to natural disasters and mutual aid for those building homes, barns and church meetingplaces. Their faith called them to reject materialism, resulting in communities that were green and sustainable long before it became fashionable. From the earliest age I was taught and shown that stewardship meant honoring God in the practical, mundane choices we make about how we live and work.

Offices of Everance -- A Church-operated financial services firm

As the Church, like all of society, becomes more urban/suburban/exurban, service and ministry projects encounter more regulatory, financial and technological challenges. Too often churches undertake projects with purposeful naivety thinking that banks, governments and businesses will “cut them slack” because they are the Church. Similarly, too often the Church settles for what is “good enough” – accepting solutions and outcomes of less quality than what any of us would personally accept in our homes or businesses. Rather we should call upon the financial, sales, engineering and technology skills found in our church to navigate projects fairly, transparently and with a high standard for value.

Preaching the Gospel includes, “caring for the least of these” (Matthew 25:40) and, “loving our neighbor as ourselves” (Matthew 22:39). Stewardship means planning for and equipping ourselves to obey these commands in tangible, skilled, and practical ways. Fundraising is often a component of this, but before we launch into fundraising or a capital campaign for a project, let’s use all the tools of commerce and the marketplace that are available. Being a good steward and practicing stewardship is so much more than fundraising.

A Recovering Church Architect

2011-04-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

I was raised in a church-centered community that built beautiful church “meetingplaces”. My earliest lessons of what it means to be a Christian are inextricably woven into my memories of the church buildings in which they were taught. The dignity of church architecture reinforced the message of my parents; “This is important! Pay attention!” My interest in church architecture grew parallel to my understanding of God, in Jesus, as Creator, Sustainer and Savior of all that is. Convinced that architecture is a powerful tool for communication, I believed that being a church architect would be the culmination of my spiritual and professional ambitions. I thought I reached the pinnacle of my career when I became head of the Church Architecture studio of a Midwestern architecture firm. But after four years I began to realize that too often constructing church buildings (small “c”) gets in the way of building the Church (capital “C”). When I started Blue Ridge Architects, I was ready to never design another church.

So many church buildings, whether traditional or contemporary, sit empty the majority of the week. Drive around your town during the week and notice all the sanctuaries, fellowship halls and classrooms that are only used on Sundays and maybe a handful of evenings or a Saturday or two. Then talk to a member of a church where the congregation is aging, or where parishioners have been hard-hit by the recession and see what a burden upkeep on these underutilized facilities has become. How much energy, money and time are siphoned away from critical ministry because we struggle to maintain facilities that aren’t aligned with the Church’s calling?

Renovation of an old 7-Eleven

Instead, I want to design and help build daycare centers, medical clinics, job-skill training centers, hospices – places where the Church is at work and the Kingdom of God is being built. If 300 people need a place to meet, let’s renovate an empty furniture store or car dealership rather than paving over farmland. Let’s harness technology so that small congregations can learn from and connect to the church worldwide, and then turn off the video monitor and pray for local needs.


Renovation of an old flower shop

Don’t get me wrong, I want to employ my experience and training as an architect in service to the Church. I believe that Christian stewardship means using God’s provision for God’s purposes. My ambition to be a church architect has equipped me to help Christian congregations discern how to use their time, money, bricks and parking lots to best serve God’s Kingdom. It’s just that after 23 years of practice, I’m coming to believe this usually means building something other than another big sanctuary with a fellowship hall, gym and classrooms on 20 acres of virgin green space.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at rseitz@blueridgearchitects.com.

What Does Your Building Really Cost?

2011-03-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

If you construct a building that your company or organization will occupy, the total cost of ownership over the life of the building will far outweigh your initial costs for design.

Items to consider when computing the total cost of ownership include:

Design fees and project soft costs – what you pay architects, engineers along with permits, inspections, testing, etc.
Construction cost
Cost of financing
Annual operating expenses -- energy costs, annual maintenance, insurance and custodial cost
Maintenance reserves – money set aside for planned and preventive tasks whose cycle exceeds one year
Systems upgrades – the cost of replacing/ renovating major building systems at least once over the life of a building

An Example

Working from our experience and information available at www.ifma.org and www.asumag.com (to name just two of many sources) we’ll look at the design and construction a 50,000 square foot classroom building that is planned to have a 30-year life span. We’ll assume a construction cost of $160/ square foot and design fees of 6%. 60% of the cost for construction will be financed at a rate of 6% and annual operations will cost $5/ square foot. Lastly, money set aside and used for maintenance reserves and systems replacement will each cost almost half of the initial cost of the building. The result looks something like this:

There are established methodologies for determining total cost of ownership. These methodologies consider numerous additional details and variables, but the primary lesson is that the real value of your investment in the design and planning of your facility is not the cost in design fees, but what the team can save you over the life of the building. In our example, if the architects and engineers lower your cost of ownership by 1%, they will have paid for half their fee. Blue Ridge Architects can walk you through the total cost of ownership for your next project.

We're Cool with Design/Build

2011-02-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

According to the Design Build Institute of America’s website, this year the number of projects completed using Design/Build is projected to equal or exceed the number of projects undertaken with the more traditional method of designing, then bidding, then building the project. Many architects see this as a threat to our profession. At Blue Ridge Architects, we’re cool with that.

Most people call a project “Design/Build” when they hire a contractor and give them responsibility for planning and designing the building along with constructing it. The contractor either has architects and engineers on staff or will sub-contract the design work to an architecture or engineering firm. Proponents of Design/Build claim the Owner or Client benefits from:

One point of contact and accountability
Tighter control of budget and schedule
Reduced risk and potential for litigation

At Blue Ridge Architects, we believe there is no single “best” or “right” way to undertake a project. Any method for designing, pricing and constructing a building ultimately succeeds or fails because of the experience, talent and integrity of the team members regardless of who is working for whom.

When we are asked by a contractor to be part of their Design/Build team we look to see if that contractor approaches client service with the same priorities we do. These priorities include creating buildings that are:

Functional, adaptable over time and expandable
Energy efficient and sustainable
Able to be operated and maintained for a reasonable cost

The contractor’s approach to project management should demonstrate a commitment to providing the client with a full range of options and information for making informed decisions. There should also be transparency about where costs reside and how each team member is making their fair and earned profit.

Several years ago I attended a conference hosted by the Washington D. C. chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The topic of the event was changing project delivery methods. One of the keynote speakers was the President of a large, national general contracting firm. He said, “The demand for architects will continue to grow. The only difference is that many of you will be working for Contractors.” The room, full of architects, was subdued. Not me. At Blue Ridge Architects we’re prepared to provide clients the ideas and expertise for successful buildings regardless of who is working for whom.

What is it Worth To You?

2011-02-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

Typically architects discuss and price their services as a percentage of the cost of construction. This method has two weaknesses. First, there is little incentive for the architect to make a building cost less. Second, it tempts owners into comparing architects solely on the basis of who will accept a smaller piece of the pie. What owners really should be asking is, “Which architect can deliver the best value and what are their fees relative to the value delivered?”

How do building owner’s measure value? It’s different for different types of projects. Below are some examples of how architects can deliver value and how to measure that value:

The Building Costs Less – A $5 per square foot savings on the construction cost translates into $100,000 of savings for a 20,000 square foot building. The value grows when you consider the savings in financing and carrying costs.

The Building Gets Done Quicker – In the example above, if an owner borrows $2,000,000 to build the building, and it takes a year to build, you could be paying as much as $10,000 per month in interest if you borrow the money at a 6% interest rate. If the architect and contractor work together to shave two months off the schedule, the savings could be up to $20,000.

The Building is Less Expensive to Operate and Maintain – Many owners track operation and maintenance costs per square foot of their building. A 50,000 square foot classroom building at a university can cost $5.50 per square foot annually. A 10%, or $.50 per square foot savings, is $25,000 per year. Over a 30 year period, that is three quarters of a million dollar in savings.

There are many more examples:

Increased retail sales per square foot based on well-designed space
Healthy buildings that decrease staff sick days and increase productivity
Efficient layouts that reduce increase the ratio leasable space to non-leasable space

All of these benefits can be calculated and measured. The next time you ask an architect for a fee, ask the architect to also propose how they will save you time and money. Then compare the cost to the benefit. Better yet, ask Blue Ridge Architects how we can save you time and money.

Go Ahead, Try a Taste!

2011-02-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

We’ve all been to COSTCO and worked our way down the main aisle sampling pizza rolls, pudding and pomegranate juice. Sometime I feel guilty making a meal of these offerings, but I remind myself that the manufacturers willing do this because it results in higher sales.

Architects frequently get asked to provide services for free and, like those manufacturers of mini hot dogs, we are generally happy to do so. Reasons for giving away the fruit of our experience, training and talent include:

Gratitude for a long-term relationship – If we have done several projects for you, it’s probably because the relationship has been mutually beneficial. For the sake of continuing that relationship we will gladly help you:

prepare a presentation to your board
estimate the cost of a project so you can make a budget request, or
do a quick zoning analysis so you can make an offer on a piece of property

To help you see the forest for the trees – If you’re managing a campus full of buildings or a facility that is busy 24/7 you may not be able to see beyond the crisis at hand. We can bring “fresh eyes” to your situation and quickly spot a simple renovation or addition that you hadn’t considered that will yield big returns for small costs.

The risk justifies the reward – Many of our commercial clients risk their time and money to make projects happen. We’ll gladly share in that risk if the reward on the back-end of the project is proportional.

You are doing a good thing – Social service agencies and community-care groups often have critical facility needs and few resources to address them. We don’t mind helping with occupancy changes, addressing code violations or helping you get permits for building projects in the name of helping you serve your community.

So, go ahead, contact us at Blue Ridge Architects and ask for the freebie. If we can help, we will do so gladly. If we can’t, we’ll either suggest other resources or respectfully explain why.

Safe by Design

2011-02-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

Well-designed buildings and grounds contribute to the safety of those that live and work there. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design – or CPTED, for those of you with a passion for acronyms – is a time-tested approach to making buildings and public spaces safer.

There are three components to CPTED:

Natural Surveillance – The configuration and location of buildings should enable observation of the surrounding outdoor areas. This means windows must be placed with care, obstructions such as signs and landscaping, must be eliminated, and outdoor gathering places need to be strategically located and properly lit.
Natural Access Control –Defining points of entry to neighborhoods, parks and developments through the use of fencing, landscaping and signage is vital. Having visitors come and go where they can be seen lets residents know who is in the area.

Harrison Heights Public Housing -- Harrisonburg, VA

Territorial Reinforcement -- Definition of public and private space is critical. In multi-family housing situations, making sure that each resident’s outdoor space is delineated promotes pride of ownership and encourages custodial care. Porches and carefully crafted outdoor areas can be transitional spaces that the encourage residents to welcome visitors.

Even the safest, most well-designed spaces will deteriorate if not maintained. Planning and budgeting for on-going up-keep is crucial. Surfaces should be easy to clean and re-finish. Places for junk to accumulate should be eliminated.

If you’re interested in learning more about promoting safe behavior through good design, contact us at Blue Ridge Architects.

The 60 Minute Master Plan

2011-01-20T14:29:00.000-08:00

A client once complained: “We pay $15,000 for a ‘Master Plan Update’ and all we get are pretty pictures of things we can’t afford to build!”

Master planning is a process whereby organizations make sure the use of their buildings and site aligns with their strategic goals. It is a tool for reassuring constituencies that their capital assets are being utilized fully and effectively.

Too often, however, architects focus on creating an aesthetic vision for a campus and don’t give their client the long-term data needed to make sound, present-day decisions. Other times the strategic vision is not fully in focus yet the client needs to move ahead with the first phase of development confident that they are not precluding future possibilities. In these situations we recommend “The 60 Minute Master Plan.”

In about 60 minutes (and without spending $15,000) your architect should be able to lead you through the following considerations:

1. Environmental Issues

Natural Features –What streams, wetlands, woods, animal habitats, etc. should be protected and featured?
Topography – Are there slopes on which it is too steep to build or too expensive to grade for roads and parking?
Sun and Wind – Which direction should buildings be oriented for natural ventilation, day-lighting and/ or solar energy?
Soils – Are there areas of soil that will not support building or will not drain properly? Are there hazardous substances buried on the site?
Drainage – How can disruption of natural drainage patterns be minimized? Where should storm water management and treatment areas be placed?

2. Regulatory and Legal

What the zoning restrictions are on uses and density of development?
How much parking is required if the site is built to maximum density?
Are there easements?
Is this property subject to design reviews by governmental or civic groups?

3. Utilities

Is there sufficient electrical power, water and sanitary waste capacity to support the maximum allowable density?
If the property does not have public utilities, does the local government have plans to bring them to the site?
Can utilities around the perimeter of the property to maintain interior open space?

4. Circulation

How can vehicular circulation and parking areas on the site be minimized?
Are adequate provisions made for safe pedestrian and bicycle circulation?
Is the site accessible to public transportation?

5. Building Design

Can buildings be clustered to minimize disturbed areas?
Are initial phases of development located close to existing site entry points to keep future options open?

Consideration of these basic issues can help you avoid most planning mistakes. Blue Ridge Architects can help you chart a plan of development that assures the highest and best long term use and provide sound data for near-term decisions. For more information, contact us at info@blueridgearchitects.com

Defining Good Architecture: Well-Crafted

2010-11-04T11:24:00.000-07:00

The difference between an ordinary building and an excellent building is the attention to detail. Well-crafted buildings sweat the details both in planning and execution.

Attention to Detail in Design

Often the pressures of time and limited fees tempt us to design the basic layout and “look” of the building and not worry about where the switches, drawers, and diffusers go – letting that up to the client and contractor to work out during construction. Often the persons that will live and work in the space are not the ones making decisions during construction. The result is work areas that aren’t efficient or devices located randomly on walls or trim and hardware that don’t match the rest of the building. A little care, or one more conversation between architect and client, could have gotten the fire alarm device aligned with the light switch or the extra file drawer needed in the nurses’ station.

A Quick Story

My favorite example is the client who wanted a “hip, cool” work space for his software company. He told us to “just give him a floor plan to get a permit” and he would work out the details during construction. We introduced some interesting angles and suggested how he could use changes in the ceiling and flooring to define work zones without using walls.

When we went to the grand opening, we congratulated him on the bold colors, bamboo floor and funky lighting. Then we saw that he trimmed the doors with colonial, residential molding and used Victorian-looking door hardware – we couldn’t decide if he was being ironic or didn’t realize the incongruity.

It takes a Skilled Workers

But even the best designed details need skilled execution. We’ve all toured the spec-built home where cabinet doors don’t align or bind or you can see the joints in the drywall. Some people may not be attuned to seeing details whether good or bad, but once a person’s eye is trained to recognize good craftsmanship, its absence is discouraging.

A simple building well-detailed and carefully built will always be more satisfying that an ambitious design poorly executed.

Jump-Start Your Project

2010-10-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

Do you have a building project that has stalled? Maybe you're having a hard time getting all the stakeholders behind the project. Are you confused about the options and what your project will cost?

One solution is to hold a design workshop. A design workshop brings together your building committee, organizational leadership and key stakeholders with Blue Ridge Architects and your contractor for two days of intensive study of your project. Typically we work at your site or some other venue accessible to your organization and where we can avoid the temptation of mobile phones and email. Here's how it works:

Pre-workshop: Through phone interviews and questionnaires we gather information about your program, budget and site

Day 1: The design team starts roughing-out two or three concepts. Throughout the day the client is welcome to stop by and observe progress. We are constantly in dialogue with the contractor about appropriate materials and systems

Evening 1: We present the initial concepts -- with plans and sketches -- to your project team which can be as large as 12 to 20 people. Each concept has a corresponding budget. We come armed with tracing paper, flip charts and calculators so we can try out different ideas and crunch numbers during the meeting. We take notes and usually get to bed late

Day 2: Using the comments from the previous evening we distill the multiple concepts into one preferred scheme. We'll build simple computer models to show you what the building will look like

Evening 2: We show the day's work and listen carefully to your feed back. You leave the meeting with a conceptual design, a tested budget and timeline for implementation -- all vital tools for decision-making, communication and fund-raising

Follow-up: We prepare a final package that includes updated floor and site plans, a photo-realistic rendering of the building and a narrative of project scope and budget

Benefits of design workshop:

1. Better Ideas -- We believe a group of people committed to a common goal can produce a result that is greater than any individual could produce by him or her self. You will have the confidence that you have fully explored your options

2. High-Quality Information -- With your contractor working beside Blue Ridge Architects, not only will you have a functional plan, you will have a scheme that is "build-able". You will have a contractor-tested budget and a realistic time line for implementation. You can move forward with realistic expectations

3. Faster Consensus -- Most not-for-profits, service agencies and churches have a diverse constituency. Participation in the workshop gets all of your stakeholders pulling in the same direction faster. It helps cut down on second-guessing

4. Momentum -- The process is fun and people leave the meetings anxious to see the project move to the next step

For those of us in the design and construction industry who are committed to collaborative design and construction, a design workshop is a vital first step. If you want more information, call or email Blue Ridge Architects

It's That Simple

2010-09-10T06:57:00.000-07:00

Is hiring an Architect worth the cost? Yes.

Why? Because:

We can save you money
We can help you get more building for your money
We can help your building operate more efficiently
We can make your building last longer
We can make the building more enjoyable and healthy for those who live, work and play in the building

Defining Good Architecture

2010-08-18T07:03:00.000-07:00

Architects like to blather on about "good design" and "great architecture" often without being able to explain what makes it good or great. Too often what we really mean is that a project is novel or innovative in a way that calls attention to the building (and the architect.) What we should do is define good architecture in terms that mean something to the consumers of architecture -- those that live, work, play and worship in our buildings.

At Blue Ridge Architects, we've developed a list of characteristics that we believe constitutes "good architecture." The list is a work-in-progress and we would appreciate your feedback and comments. Over the next weeks we will highlight each of the following values. Stay tuned.

At Blue Ridge Architects we believe architecture should be:

Lasting
Meaningful
Authentic
Site-specific
Progressive
Well-crafted
Simple
Sustainable
Functional
Affordable

Choose a Person, Not a Process

2010-08-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

If you are board member, staff or stakeholder in an educational, religious, or community service agency, the prospect of tackling a building project can be both exciting and daunting. As a leader in a people-focused organization, you will likely turn to an outside company to guide you through the building process. Terms such as “design-build”, “construction management” and “collaborative design” will be tossed around as architects and contractors vie for the opportunity to lead and manage your project.

As a steward of your group’s resources, there are seven fundamental questions you need answered. Rather than worry about selecting the right process – focus on choosing the right person. The person who answers them the most directly, completely and clearly is the right person to be your project leader.

Do we need to build? Sometimes there are creative solutions that can postpone or eliminate the need for a new building. The best project leader can provide you with tools to objectively analyze whether a building project is the best solution for your needs.

What should I build? Anyone proposing to lead you through the building process not only needs to understand what you do but what you need to do it better. Look for a project leader with an understanding of the trends that will shape the way you operate for the next 15 to 20 years.

How should I build? The technology of building constantly evolves. Increasing material and labor costs, sustainability concerns and the desire for energy efficiency are fueling innovative products and methods. From this myriad of choices, the best project leaders will help you select the systems and processes that are right for your region and project.

What does it cost? Early in a project there are many unknowns that make estimating cost difficult. Experienced builders are cautious for good reason. But the right project leader knows you need financial information to make strategic decision and he or she should provide you with appropriate financial projections along with the understanding of how to interpret and use that information.

How long will it take? In our fast-paced, need-it-now, culture, time is a more precious commodity than money. If your services are in demand, you want to minimize the disruption to your operations. Expect a potential project leader to explain critical milestones and how they will impact your operations.

How should I pay for it? Can the architect or contractor you are talking to connect you to fundraisers, potential grants or lending institutions? Does he or she know what those who will fund your project are looking for?

What will it cost to operate? For not-for-profits, operational costs often trump first costs. Make sure a potential project leader understands how debt service, operational and staffing costs will impact your annual budget.

Sometimes the right person to lead your project will be an architect; sometimes a contractor. But once you’ve found that person, you can have the confidence their company will build the right team and craft the right process to deliver a building of high value that will stand the test of time.

We have built Blue Ridge Architects to answer these questions. If you are growing, community-focused organization, give us a chance to earn your trust and business.

Decision Fatigue

2010-08-08T18:14:00.000-07:00

Recently, during a meeting in the later stages of designing a building, we had a client say, “I can’t make all these decisions right now. Can’t we just get started and work all this stuff out during construction?” We’ve heard variations on this from other clients on projects ranging from new homes to commercial projects. These comments illustrate that people have different capacities and processes for decision-making.

The number of decisions needed to design and construct a building has multiplied exponentially over the past ten to twenty years. Increased regulation to protect public safety, protect the environment and make buildings accessible is part of the equation. The amount of technology woven into the building’s fabric also demands more planning and decisions. In addition to data, communication, security and life-safety systems, we now have the ability for our buildings to “sense” and monitor usage and adjust heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting accordingly. Overarching all this is the ever-increasing cost of materials and labor to construct a building. As it becomes harder to get financing for projects, Owners need to know exactly what a building costs as soon as possible. All of this makes swift, precise and thorough decision-making an essential part of the design process.

Decision-fatigue also manifests itself with our residential clients. Most people start with a plan book and contractor. The plan book gives them ample, but finite choices and, other than selections of flooring, cabinets and paint, they leave decisions about the methods and materials of construction up to the contractor. Architects seek to get the most value out of every aspect of a home, so we tend to examine every component of the house and ask, “Will this material or system deliver the best performance, value our aesthetic impact for our client?” We try to discern early on whether a client wants to make decisions about insulated or un-insulated crawlspace, OSB sheathing or SIS panels, 13 or 14 SEER heat pumps and so on. Many clients are satisfied to tweak the layout, get the windows in the right location, pick exterior materials, pick cabinets, plumbing fixtures, lights, flooring and paint colors and move in. Busy work and family schedules make it hard for them to handle much more.

Blue Ridge Architects works hard to balance a thorough and efficient process with the unique decision-making style of each client. We guide you through efficient decision-making by:

• Leading a collaborative process where the architect, contractor and key consultants and trades work together to make the right decision at the right time. This results in critical, accurate information for high-value decision-making early in the process

• Knowing the market -- Whether it’s commercial space to leased or building a home we know what layouts and amenities hold value over time. This produces a solid return-on-investment

• Scaling our services – We listen carefully to find out what is important to you, and provide only the services you need. If you just need a plan to get a building permit and will make decisions about finishes on your own, we price our work accordingly. If you need some conceptual ideas to take to a builder, we focus options and ideas rather than details. This minimizes the cost of our services

We believe that good decision-making is essential to good design. Crafting a customized process that is in-sync with needs and personality of our client helps Blue Ridge Architects consistently deliver projects with lasting value.

Working Point: Values in Architecture

2010-08-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

[A working point is the location in plan and elevation from which all the dimensions for a building originate. Similarly, the location of any other point in the building should be able to be defined by x, y and z values relative to the working point.]

In the layout and design of a building if dimensions are not place properly on the plans, a simple mistake can make all the dimensions irrelevant. A common mistake is to thoroughly dimension a room or area of a building, but not tie those dimensions to some fixed reference – a “working point”. When this happens, there is no way to know where to begin building the rooms because there is no stated relationship or relevance to something beyond those rooms.

Too often we architects speak only to each other. We confer rewards on one another, we strive to have our projects featured in journals and on websites only other architects monitor. We fail to link the value of what we do to a working point or set of values that belongs to those outside the architectural profession and the building industry.

Dana Cuff, a professor at UCLA states in her book, Architecture: The Story of A Practice, that design is a social art and the successful projects will be seen as such by: 1) Stakeholders – clients, designers, builder; 2) The public – as represented by press and general opinion and 3) The profession – in form of awards and publication in journals.

Why use the concept of “working point” as the title for our blog? Blue Ridge Architects wants to demonstrate the relevance of architecture by linking it to things that matter to those outside the building industry. We seek to better understand what the public values. That said, architecture has a prophetic role as well – it needs to constantly, respectfully, remind the public that there is a better way to live. This blog will seek connect the power and potential of architecture to needs and aspirations of those who live, work, play and worship in the buildings we design. Please join the discussion.