Design Services

Or Call: (848) 467-7607

Surveying And Schematic Design

initial consultation

A phone conference or in person meeting  with the principal designer. We will go over the scope of work for your project as well as make acquaintance. 

Survey/Measure up

A detailed hand-drawn sketch of the existing conditions that will help examine and record the area and features of the property/project so as to construct an existing plan.

existing conditions

Upon completion of a survey, an existing floor plan will be drafted on the computer using CAD software. This will provide the designer and client with a scaled drawing of the current space.  Depending on the scope of work, hiring a site surveyor or civil engineer will be important for a Zoning Analysis. This analysis will tell you what the limitations are on your property and how it will affect your scope of work.

Schematic Design

One or more design options shall be provided to you based on information provided from the existing floor plans and the limitations of the zoning laws. This includes showing how the options differ from what is current. Keep in mind the circulation (how will you walk through the space), the program (what do you need in the space), the furniture layout (what necessities fit within the space), dimensions (length, width & height) of each area and  last and most importantly, is the design within your budget? 

Design Approval

Sometimes the design options presented are “perfect” with some minor changes. Other times design options require going back to the drawing board. Either way, once a schematic design is approved, the first phase will be complete. Phase two is construction documents. With this complete set of documents [signed and sealed by a licensed architect] you will be able to apply for a permit – fees from your building department may apply.

Construction Documents

* Work Must Be Performed Under Licensed Architect

demolition plans

After a schematic design has been approved, phase two is the creation of construction documents.  Typically a demolition plan is the first plan you view in order to understand which architectural elements from your current space are being removed. Architectural elements include walls, floor, ceilings, doors, windows, millwork (i.e. cabinetry or built-ins).

Construction Plans

The next step is to show what is being proposed after demolition. Here you will understand the new spacial composition and program, furniture layout (usually only for client use), dimensions of new areas in comparison to existing areas. Typically these plans are riddled with notes for knowledgeable contractors.

electrical plans

Electrical plans provide a layout of where electrical objects will go. This includes recessed lights, ceiling and wall mounted lights, pendants and suspended lights – we don’t show table lamps or floor lamps because they are not hard-wired into an architectural surface. This also includes outlets (dedicated/non-dedicated), switches, phone, cable and internet jacks, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and where you would need them located for your use and per code.

interior & exterior elevations

EXTERIOR elevations provide and idea of what the floor plans will look like on the outside of the project showing 2D views of the front, right, rear and left side. These drawings give the you a chance to understand how heights of each architectural element is composed adjacent to each other. Even the little details of window divided lights or scale of siding material are important for the look you’d like to achieve.  INTERIOR elevations are necessary when you have a unique room that needs more information about designed ceilings, accessory heights, material transitions, doors and windows, lighting fixtures, mechanical equipment or plumbing fixtures.

Sections & Details

Sections and details help the contractor build the project. By cutting through the main or specific areas, we can determine what materials are needed to put the design together.

Diagrams & Rescheck

Diagrams such as the plumbing riser – consists of water, drain and vent lines being installed. Indicate all pipe sizes and show clean-outs for the sanitary system, the gas riser – consists of size and length of each section of gas pipe starting at the meter, to each take-off tee branch, coming off the main gas line that supply each appliance, including any new appliances , or the water supply piping – which designates hot and cold water systems used for washing, cooking, cleaning and other specialized functions.  These diagrams are important for building departments to assure the subcontractors are installing new material to code and proper pipe sizing.

The REScheck and COMcheck software makes it faster and easier for builders, designers, and contractors to determine whether new buidlings, homes, additions, and alterations meet the requirements of the IECC or ASHRAE Standard 90.1 as well  as a number of state energy codes. 

 

Additional Services

3d modeling

3D Modeling  is an ever-growing service being used in the design industry. Using model making software, we can convert those boring 2d floor plans into a space that we can pan, orbit, and walk-thru. We can easily understand room composition, open or less open layouts, ceiling heights, furniture arrangements, material selection and the general style of your project. Whether it be modern, contemporary, rustic, urban,  art deco, Scandinavian, a three dimensional model can help you and the designer picture exactly what you want your space to feel like,

rendering

After you see your project in 3D, why not take it one step further and picture it in a realistic rendering. With plug-ins and modern technology we can take a cartoonish 3d model and make it picturesque.

Virtual reality

The last step to a photo-realistic rendering is the ability to create a virtual realty experience from your very own smart phone, tablet or desktop. As you move, your view is connected to a pivotal point in the space allowing you to see above, below, and all around you in real time.

Product Selection

FF&E or furniture, fixtures and equipment are an essential part of most residential or commercial projects. In terms of cost, it’s most of the time forgotten about how much additional funds it can add to a project. Furthermore, the management of all of these specifications and selections can become overwhelming without guidance. Typically schedules  and specifications are provided for client and contractor such as, lighting, plumbing, appliance, paint, tile, door & hardware to name a few.   

Construction Administration

Site visits are typically needed to ensure that the contractor has built what the designer puts on paper.  Most of the time there are hidden obstacles that require a visit from the designer in order to do some on-site problem solving.  A visit is usually needed after demolition, after framing, and during finish installation. At the end of the project the contractor and owner run through a punch list to ensure all scope of work has been met.

freelance/consulting

We provide freelancing and consulting for your business. Whether your company is understaffed at the moment or taking in an abundance of new projects, we can work with you to fulfill your needs.

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Or Call: (848) 467-7607

About Studio

Our studio is a diverse, fun and motivated group of individuals working toward the same goal of providing you with our best efforts and our full attention. Call today!

Information

1521 Main Street
Rahway, NJ 07065
Tel. (848) 467 7607
email: arielle@a3i.co

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