1)     Programming (deciding what to build)

VanDevere & Associates (VA) will assist you in defining the scope and requirements for your project (the number and functions of rooms and/or spaces, etc.), determining how your desires fit within your budget. Programming is often done with the help of site and economic studies.

2)     Schematic Design (developing the concept)

During this phase VA will prepare a series of rough sketches that show a conceptual approach to the design, general arrangement of the rooms and spaces, and general organization of the site.

3)  Design Development (refinement of the design)

Once you have approved the schematic design, VA will prepare more refined drawings, which communicate and document more detailed aspects of the proposed design. Floor plans show proportions, shapes and dimensions of all the rooms. Outline specifications are prepared listing the major materials and room finishes.

4)     Construction Documents

Once you approve the design development documents, VA will prepare detailed drawings and specifications, which the contractor can use to establish actual construction costs, obtain building permits to begin construction and build the project.

5)  Bidding and Negotiation (hiring the contractor)

As the client, you select and hire the contractor. Three or four contractors are usually asked to submit proposals or bids for the project, which include total construction cost predictions. VA can make recommendations of contractors to consider and help prepare bidding documents, invitations to bid and instructions to bidders.

6)     Construction

The selected contractor will build your project and is solely responsible for construction methods, techniques, schedules and procedures. During construction VanDevere & Associates can clarify and interpret the bid documents for the contractor, visit the site periodically to observe construction, review and approve the contractor’s request for payment and keep you informed of the project’s progress.