Think of the Architect's services as the creation of instruction manuals for building one-of-a-kind buildings, perfectly suited to each client; written in the language of builders and permit reviewers.

Richard Bacon, in private practice since 1972, and Steven Bacon, in the business since 1984, have each seen practically every situation facing other small businesses wishing to undertake a building program. Every program is different--each client requires a different level of service. BCD will help you determine what level is appropriate for you at the very earliest stages.

Any construction program may need all, some, just one or just one part of the services described below:

Site Analysis & Feasibility Study

Assist in locating appropriate sites; evaluate relative benefits/disadvantages of several sites; determine maximum square footage allowed on a particular site; identify zoning & safety code implications; square foot construction cost budgeting based on conceptual plans. This stage of a project can also include services to gain re-zoning, conditional use permits, and variances to various codes and restrictions.

Building & Site Planning / Architectural Design

Determine optimal work flows, traffic flows, relationship to streets; determine structural system, building materials, mechanical & electrical systems; select interior material and finish types; accommodate specialized equipment and systems; develop exterior design incorporating specific image to project to public and customers. Square foot cost estimating indicates approximate budget for the contemplated project. Image at right is a preliminary bank office floor plan.

Building Construction Documents

The familiar blueprints and specifications used to procure construction pricing, and from which the builder creates the one-of-a-kind structure; these are also submitted to reviewing agencies for permitting--questions are addressed, approvals are granted. The drawings and project manual are incorporated into the construction contracts, making them the basis to resolve questions if they arise.

Contracts Administration

The construction contracts between project Owner and General Contractor are prepared by the Architect, incorporating all terms of the Construction Documents and other conditions required by the project; the Architect evaluates construction progress and responds to questions as they arise; Architect evaluates requests for additional costs from contractor (hint: with fully detailed plans, these will be negligible).

Building Permits