Research and Context

Every project starts from an understanding of you, the client, and the underlying context. Through a collaborative process with your team and DA+I, we develop the fundamental elements that are the groundwork specific to your project.

What makes you unique? We identify your needs and goals and distinguish what defines your organization. The programing process develops the nuts and bolts of what is essential for the project including space needs and requirements, as well as budget. Your goals are often intangible and come from internal beliefs and culture of your organization. These aspects can vary from project to project but can include aesthetics, sustainable objectives, user experience or community connection.

How is this project different from any other? Whether comparing to similar project types or other internal projects elsewhere, we want to recognize what makes this one different from the rest. Context and Place leads to unique design opportunities. The geographic location, surrounding environment, historic context, topography or existing infrastructure are just a few examples of how context supports design decisions that make for a special experience that only this project can provide.  

Conceptual Design

Hand sketching, physical models, diagrams and 3D modeling are some of the tools we use to support the development of concepts, working collaboratively with your team through workshops.  The information gathered during the research process helps to spur ideas of where to go next. At this stage anything is possible. We develop opportunities and test them against the needs and goals to see what produces the most desired outcome for your project.

Document Development

The documentation process includes three main phases: Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents. Each phase provides more detail than the last, and includes progressively more design and coordination among the design and engineering team. This process allows regular input from the client to ensure the design is meeting the needs and goals as well as an opportunity to gauge cost along the way.

Construction Administration

There is a verity of options for engaging a Contractor for construction. DA+I has experience with many, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, Design-Assist, and Construction Manager at Risk. Regardless of the process, DA+I participates in the oversight of the construction to ensure the design intent is achieved.