Bay Area Home Theater and Automation

Schematic Design

• Prepare a written description of your needs and desires for the project.
• Consult with the local planning and permitting authorities to verify the exact zoning parameters and entitlement process.
• Obtain a topographic survey and prepare measured drawings of the existing structures, where applicable-consultants may be required at additional cost.
• Prepare several schematic plans (along with building siting, hardscapes, pool, driveway, etc.) along with preliminary cost estimates.
• Present and explain each alternative, discuss ideas and listen to feedback. Iteratively revise the plans until we have a plan that is elegant, suitable, within your budget and can be approved by the jurisdiction.
• Prepare a detailed cost estimate.
• Prepare preliminary 3D digital models of the building and property so you can really visualize the design proposals.
• Provide preliminary material samples so you can really understand what the building will ‘feel’ like.

Design Development

• Revise and improve the schematic plans.
• Prepare detailed 3D digital models. Schematic drawings of building elevations. Perspective sketches. Scale study models, as needed.
• Prepare comprehensive schedules of exterior materials and construction assemblies (roofing, siding, windows, exterior doors, etc.).
• Prepare preliminary schedules of plumbing fixtures, electrical fixtures, and mechanical equipment.
• Itemized review of sustainable building considerations, including resource & energy conservation, health, and life-cycle costs for both the immediate household and the world at large. Prepare a ‘Green Building’ analysis of the project-consultants may be required at additional cost.
• Prepare an Energy Efficiency’ analysis (aka Title 24).
• Prepare preliminary structural analysis and calculations-consultants may be required at additional cost.
• Update and revise the cost estimate to continually monitor the projected project costs.
• Consult and coordinate with other design professionals as appropriate-landscape architects, geo-technical engineers, pool contractors, etc.

Construction Documents

• Prepare project drawings necessary for planning approvals.
• Apply for and obtain the necessary planning entitlements, including neighborhood outreach and planning commission hearings.
• Prepare a complete set of drawings and construction details fully describing the intended project.
• Prepare detailed structural calculations to ensure a safe and code compliant designconsultants may be required at additional cost.
• Coordinate the entire package of drawings with other design consultants as appropriate.
• Apply for and obtain approvals for the necessary building permits.

Bidding/Contract Administration

• Determine the desired construction methodology and contracting structure (fixed bidding, cost plus overheads, owner managed, etc).
• Identify and interview potential contractors together with owners.
• Administer a fair and expedient bidding process (or negotiate terms of a cost plus fees contract).
• Review, negotiate and approve the construction contract. Construction contract review, plans interpretation, shop drawing review and supplemental construction details.

Interior Design

• Listen closely to our clients to fully understand their design objectives, desired stylistic appearances, budget and functional needs.
• Prepare interior sketches and detailed 3D digital models showing the design of rooms, cabinets and other interior architectural elements.
• Prepare installation details of materials and architectural elements such as lighting plans, equipment and plumbing selections.
• Provide material samples of proposed finishes.
• Visit showrooms to assist in the selections of materials.
• Prepare detailed schedules of plumbing fixtures, electrical fixtures, equipment and appliances.
• Prepare detailed schedules of interior finishes (floors, walls, ceilings, stairs), cabinets and tile work.
• Provide preliminary color selections and assist you in making final color decisions for all surfaces and materials.
• Coordinate with other design professionals as appropriate-lighting designers, ‘smart home’ technicians, theatre designers, etc.
• Prepare detailed drawings fully describing the interior finishes.