As you begin considering your choice of an architect for your project you'll want to establish some criteria against which to measure you options. What level of service is being proposed? How will your needs and wants be incorporated into the design? What will your responsibilities be during the design and construction process?
You may find the information assembled to the right helpful in identifying, evaluating, and selecting your architect.
What do Architectural Services Include?
As you begin talking with and considering an architect for your new office you will find that different architects offer various levels of services. The following list of services is considered Full Architectural Services.
Pre-Design: Evaluation of the proposed site(s)/buildings
Architectural feasibility
Mechanical system capacity
Electrical service configuration/capacity
Architectural Design & Documentation
Building Code Review
Schematic Design
Design Development
Selection of all Interior Materials & Finishes
Construction Documents
Building Systems Design & Documenation
Mechanical
Plumbing
Electrical
Client's Vendors & Consultants Coordination
Dental Equipment
Information Technology
Construction Phase Coordination
Regular On-Site meetings w/ Client, General Contractor, & Architect in attendance
Products, materials, assemblies and finishes submittal reviews
Construction Budget tracking
General Contractor's Application for Payment review and certification
Project Completion Punch-List Walk
Why is the quality of my office design important to my business?
There are many advantages a well conceived and developed design can provide to your business. Here are a few:
Good flow & ease of use increase productivity
Reflects your personality and how you want to be perceived by your patients, your employees, and your peers
Sets you apart from the crowd
Recruitment tool both for patients and employees
Adds to overall patient experience
How Do I Select the Right Architect?
While liking your architect's personality is a generally good idea, there are a number of more objective criteria you can use when considering your selection:
References from dental equipment vendor(s)
References from colleagues
Ability to demonstrate dental office design experience
Visit completed offices
Identify the level of service the architect proposes to provide