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Showing posts from April, 2018

What is a Feasibility Assessment – And Why is it Important?

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One of the services offered by commercial and  residential architects  is a feasibility assessment or feasibility study. This is a full evaluation that takes place in the early stages of a project that looks at every aspect of the build and is ideal for larger or more complex projects, or where the site itself may be more challenging. What is the Purpose of a Feasibility Study?  Firstly, this evaluation will determine if the project is viable. It will also lay out different options for the build to manage any challenges the project presents, and develop project documentation (if needed) including: Planning permission Determining the need for an Environmental Impact Study Assessment of the budget Site appraisals including geotechnical studies, water egress, easements, services on the land, restrictions, etc. Examination of existing buildings for use in the project, access to the site, and operational/maintenance challenges Development of different strate...

Architectural Office Design Trends That Support Productivity

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Businesses want a lot from their buildings, from aesthetics that support their brand to designs that help them meet goals for growth and expansion.  Commercial architecture in NJ  and around the world is increasing its engagement with the goals of clients by including these great trends that actively enhance productivity. Eliminating clutter:  With forward-thinking architectural design, much of the distracting wiring and clutter of an office workplace can be hidden away to achieve a clean, seamless and calming aesthetic. This is especially important in open-plan and flexible office spaces, as clutter can quickly accumulate and pollute an entire department. These features are also great for future-proofing a workplace, by providing the space and structural openings needed to accommodate expansion and technological advances. Nature:  Bringing the natural world indoors and especially into the office environment is a big trend that is showing significant results...

What’s the Best Time of Year to Start Building?

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One of the first questions many people ask their  architect in NJ  is when to start building their new home or addition. Here are some insights to help you make the best start on your new project. What Factors Should I Consider Before I Start Building?  Your contractors:  The reality is that contractors are available year-round depending on their schedule and are often more easily available in their “off-season” months. If you want a specific contractor, this might be the most important factor in your decision. Frozen ground:  When the ground is frozen, it’s harder to work and many contractors prefer to have the basic foundations and structure in place before winter hits. This will vary according to your geographic location, with the North-Western areas of NJ having cooler temperatures on average and Atlantic Ocean regions having fewer days below freezing. The rainy season:  This is considered to be the worst time of the year to start a build, a...

5 Qualities of Exceptional Architectural Design

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There are a few key elements that stand out as the foundation of any great building. Here’s a quick guide to the stand-out elements of  architectural design in NJ. Sustainability:  This refers to the inclusion of technology and design elements that help create buildings that have a lower carbon footprint, are more affordable to maintain, and are energy-efficient to keep running costs down. Making this a priority in the design stage is a great way for businesses to keep long-term costs down and improve their environmental image. Aesthetics:  Building designs are constantly changing to include new innovations and trends, but a well-designed structure will always be able to include the elegance and attractiveness of the period in a way that is timeless. Functionality:  Above all else, a building should be practical to use whether it is residential, commercial or industrial. It should fit its purpose completely, from foundation to finishing touches to not only ...