Q+ Process

Pre-Design

Ideally, we begin each project with a Programming phase to help our clients define the scope and goals for their project. It is all about being proactive – seeking out potential challenges and opportunities that go beyond the basic needs of a project. This exploration process is done in collaboration with an owner's team representing a variety of views and values. At the end of Pre-Design, there is a shared understanding of the project objectives in terms of function and image, and the impact on costs (both short-term and life-cycle).

Design

Design is the foundation for everything we do. In support of this, we value a process that is inclusive and comprehensive, addressing the needs and desires identified by our clients. We explore alternatives using the latest 3D modeling techniques. We identify and research case studies to understand precedent and preferences. We offer clear distinctions between functional and image concerns. Plus, the entire Quackenbush Architects + Planners design team has input. We accomplish this via rigorous, in-office charrettes where any and all ideas are up for discussion.

Construction Documents

Want an earful? Then ask a contractor about the quality of a typical set of contract documents. Coordination, consistency and completeness vary dramatically from one set to the next. This has serious implications on the quality of the final project.

Quackenbush Architects + Planners takes pride in the construction documents we produce. Over the years, we have relied on input from review agencies and contractors to refine our documentation process. It is not uncommon for a contractor to remark on the quality of our documents and how they facilitate better bids on bid day.

Construction Administration

The original project team is not done when the design is finalized. The members of that team simply – and seamlessly – move on to assume key oversight and consulting roles during the construction phase. We monitor implementation of the pre-set construction sequence. We provide on-site observation. We step up with nimble solutions when needed. In short, we are there to help ensure the construction of a project is completed on schedule and as intended.

Interior Design

We know imaginative interiors can stimulate, soothe, amuse, and polish an image. We also know well-planned space is imperative for optimum operational efficiency. The first quality is based on emotive, aesthetic decisions like scale, colors and types of material. The latter is clearly based on logic. It is the successful fusion of creativity and logic that equals Intelligent Design, an approach Quackenbush Architects + Planners has implemented for a wide range of projects – from institutional, educational and corporate spaces to historic restorations.

The fusion of creativity and logic= Intelligent Design. Quackenbush Architects + Planners' team offers a broad range of project experience, from medical, educational and corporate spaces to historic restorations- projects with vastly different requirements in function, longevity, image and budget.

Master Planning

Our master plans build consensus about a sense of place and create tools that allow this vision to become reality. Whether partnering with a developer or public institution, we like to begin with community participation and focus groups. Findings from these sessions help identify and refine key goals and issues and, in turn, become a decision-making filter as the process moves forward. It is a major element of our guiding principle of Master Planning, which is to avoid the temptation to think of buildings as standalone objects.

Our process optimizes the opportunities between traditional "planning" and architecture. On one hand, addressing issues of market analysis, growth models, traffic analysis, etc. that are represented in a conceptual plan. On the other, creating specific models based on architectural prototyping and site planning.

Summary

Quackenbush Architects + Planners has the creativity, experience and insight to design exceptional buildings and places. We deliver projects on time and in budget. We work from a perspective of clarity and innovation. We always strive to develop elegant designs with uncompromised aesthetics and functionality.