DESIGN PROCESS
We are the next generation of Burgeoning Organic Architecture.
California is one of the “most geographically and ecologically diverse regions in the world, with landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to coastal redwood rainforests to snow-covered alpine mountains to dry desert valleys.”1 As such, we have a unique responsibility to create designs that celebrate this wonderfully diverse region, while navigating the most challenging combination of laws, hazards, infrastructure, and energy issues of any state in the nation.
1 Ecosystems of California, Mooney & Zavaleta, 2016, University of California Press
STEP 1. NEEDS + OPTIONS REVIEW
It is not uncommon for people to know that they want to do a building project, and have thought about it quite a bit, but just don’t know how best to start.
Or worse, launch into an expensive design service without establishing a relationship; or worse still, not carefully establishing the groundwork for a project. So how do we begin?
This review works by starting a design exploration that allows you to precisely understand your requirements, and potential roadblocks. It then gives: Findings and Recommendations; A Plan to move forward; and a Timeline and Rough Order of Cost.
This allows us to turn your dreams into an organic reality, one that is uniquely contextual to California.
STEP 2. DESIGN
After identifying the requirements and goals, we start designing. We communicate consistently with our clients to further develop and improve the project’s spaces. We make it easy to understand our tailor-made vision by regularly reviewing drawings, models, renderings, and movies. We test ideas, and we modify and refine them on paper (or computer), together. Because we have completed our Needs + Options Review, we know that the designs we are testing and refining are accurate, permittable, and buildable.
STEP 3. CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
Once design is completed, we develop drawings for the City/County, and ultimately the Builder.
By laying out the specific elements of the building: it’s layout, structure, electrical/plumbing and mechanical systems, fire safety, and more, we provide highly detailed drawings for permits, and the construction site. Our drawings are produced in 3D “BIM” software, and all designs are run through a highly specialized energy modeling software that optimizes energy usage and carbon targets. We communicate and make it clear to understand the decisions being made for the project.
Did you know: Less than 1% of small architecture firms in the US are part of the AIA 2030 Commitment? Burgeoning is not only part of the Commitment, but purveyors of Organic Architecture in California.
STEP 4. BUILDING AND CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
After permit approval, we help find the contractor through our extensive referral network, or we work directly with your own contractor to develop the Project Agreement. This lays out the rules, and establishes the procedures for building the project. Once selected, we work alongside you and your contractor to address specific issues that arise during construction, including review of structural and safety systems, as well as aesthetics and administrative measures. We are involved from the first to last day during the construction phase.
STEP 5. COMPLETION
Congratulations, your building is now finished!
We assist in final close-out of the project, reviewing any remaining fees or ‘punch list’ items due or required. We also ensure the contractor has given all manuals to the owner, as well as walked them through how they will be operating the building from here out. We assist in finalizing any paperwork needed for the City/County, and review final warranty and lien releases with the owner and contractor. If something happens after construction is completed, you will know who to call and how to get the issue resolved.
