Methodology and Approach: Preliminary Design Steps
The earliest stages of a design project are often the most challenging-from a multitude of possibilities,
decisions must be made, each of which will greatly influence the project outcome. With so much to consider, the "blank slate"
of a new project is frequently the most daunting stage. Once basic decisions are made-project scope, site selection, building
use, materials, size, etc. - the process becomes more streamlined as work progresses. At this critical stage, and at every
point in the design process, Klein McCarthy Architects will work with you to review your options and recommend choices most
compatible with your goals, schedule, and budget.
From the start, we follow a set of principles which ensures successful collaboration with our clients,
these principles are:
- Teamwork: Establishment of a comprehensive planning team that works together to achieve common goals and develop the best outcome.
- Availability: The planning team, including consultants, is available to meet regularly to keep the project moving.
- Education: The planning team will provide the necessary information to the client stakeholders (owners and users/occupants) so they
are well informed. A well informed planning committee can make decisions in a timely manner.
- Information: Accurate information provides stakeholders the ability to visualize what the issues and needs are in their
jurisdiction. Data collection of pertinent information is critical and the presentation of that information must be accurate, concise,
and relevant.
- Operations: A key to design is how the facility will operate. A team comprised of consultants, the architect, and stakeholders
analyzes how the proposed facility will be used and helps optimize a design based on that use.
- Efficiencies: Justice facilities (Jails, Courts, Law Enforcement Centers, etc.) can be expensive to construct and operate.
We focus on our clients objectives and the appropriate balance of construction cost and operational efficiency.
The Facility Planning Process
Once the team of architect, client representatives/stakeholders, and consultants has been established, the initial design process can begin.
Although every project varies, the stages listed below are typical. Of course we will work with you to tailor services to your unique
needs and objectives.
1) Education
This phase involves acquainting the planning team with major issues which may include
understanding client procedures and operations, various legal requirements, discussion of current trends, identification of major
cost components, and locating resources for additional information.
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2) Planning
Planning activities generally include a history and review of facility operations,
identifying operational problems, establishing user groups, setting goals and objectives, and preparing action plans for solving
issues.
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3) Data Collection & Analysis
In this phase the planning committee will determine current and projected requirements
for the proposed project. Based on historical data and projected trends, needs are reviewed and verified with the planning team to
be incorporated into the project plan.
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4) Feasibility Study
Needs are translated into facility requirements and ways of satisfying those
requirements are considered. A feasible approach is identified. During this phase, potential funding sources for facility
construction are also investigated.
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5) Information Gathering & Preview
The team obtains plans of existing facilities and potential sites under consideration
and reviews technical information which may involve the requisition of special surveys or consultants to provide data on utilities,
soils capacity, water table, and highway planning data.
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6) Existing Facility & Site Analysis
In this phase the design team will analyze the existing facilities and situation and
consider other sites to identify opportunities and restrictions for the pre-architectural program. Existing building considerations
include lifecycle expectations, the value of its reusable components, existing infrastructure and its capacity for current use or
potential expansion.
Other considerations include the possible need to temporarily relocate operations and proximity to related components. Real
estate marketability is also reviewed during this stage as are larger community matters of city planning goals, downtown vitality, vehicle
access and congestion. Finally, a series of civil issues will need to be resolved: possible community concerns, site pedestrian/vehicle
access, separation between public and official traffic, handicapped accessibility, security considerations and public safety, long-term
expansion, and more.
The design committee is presented with an overview of selected sites to discuss their relative merits. Issues and costs associated with
renovation or expansion of existing facilities are also reviewed at this stage. Other possible areas of concern are identified.
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7) Site Masterplanning
Using the pre-architectural program, including established operations and functional
space needs, one or more block plan options on each of the proposed sites is developed. These typically include the above listed
civil concerns of parking, public/secure vehicle access separation, service and maintenance vehicle access, potential related
facilities future expansion, and more.
With the development of various masterplan options, each concept is discussed in terms of its ability to fulfill the pre-architectural
program requirements and other criteria listed above.
Design team critique and work sessions review client feedback and incorporate requested refinements. Conceptual cost estimates are
developed for each site masterplan option including construction and project budget to compare existing building versus "from scratch"
options including potential differences in staffing and operational costs.
Rough cost estimates and line item comparisons between each site masterplan are reviewed. Individuals who will be participating in the
final site selection process are chosen at this point.
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8) Site Masterplan Selection
Following previously established selection criteria, each site masterplan is evaluated
and ranked. One is selected for approval to proceed.
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9) Concept Design
The selected site and building option is further refined into more quantifiable set
of building information: at this stage sketches may be replaced by more precise scale drawings. Vertical scale building sections
may also be developed, including any attachments to the existing structures if applicable. Exterior elevations are drawn to illustrate
the aesthetic concept. Cost estimates and project budget estimates are refined as are previous staffing analysis and operational
cost projections. An executive summary will be drafted along with a design concept narrative.
All design and budget information on the approved plan is reviewed and any questions for review, response and refinement are
also reviewed at this time. Public education and support campaign strategies may also be discussed.
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10) Final Report
Refinement of the design concept continues and the final preliminary design
report is distributed as required by the client. We can assist the committee in developing a press release or other information
for a public education and support campaign (if applicable).
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11) Public Education and Support Campaign
Klein McCarthy will assist our client in responding to any questions about the proposed
project. We can attend town hall presentations and assist the client in preparing any necessary submittals.
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