Your Questions Answered
FAQs
What is the scope of the project ?
The scope of a project refers to the type and amount of work to be done in a given time frame and budget. A well defined scope of work is necessary to successfully navigate the phases of design and construction. ACS assist in identifying the scope of work during an initial interview.
How do I develop a realistic budget ?
An initial budget can be derived by a cost x square foot calculation. The dollar amount of the cost is determined by the level of finish and detail expected in the design. We strongly encourages our clients to engage with a construction professional for current construction cost data.
What is a typical timeline for a project ?
This is contingent up the scope of the project and the responsiveness of the client. The design process for a new home could take 3-6 months. Questions to be considered by a client are, When do you expect to build? When do you expect to complete construction and move in. With those answers we can formulate a timeline in an effort to meet a given completion date.
Do I need to engage a contractor ?
ACS strongly encourages our clients to engage with a contractor early in the design process. Doing so will provide feedback regarding time line and budget. A contractor who provides pre-construction services during the design process may or may not be the contractor to build the project. This relationship is between the client and the contractor with ACS offering coordination assistance.
Does ACS perform interior design services ?
ACS can provide interior design services in house. We find this to be a valuable asset in the design process to fully integrate and realize the design from the outside through to the inside.
When can we schedule our meetings ?
Our office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 am -5:30 pm. Out of respect for our families we strive to schedule meetings during office hours. Meetings can be held at our office or we can meet with you at your location.
Can you produce a construction cost estimate ?
Although we have limited construction cost data from past projects, we do not have a strong knowledge of current prices and costs. We don’t actively engage in construction estimating as we depend on contractors to provide this with more accurate
What documents will I need to begin the design process ?
At the onset of the design process we sketch over the property survey. This way we tie the design to the land and the features that make it unique. A boundary survey of the property includes the property lines, building setbacks, utility locations, specimen trees and topographic information.
Are you licensed Architects ?
YES. Most states require a professional degree in architecture. To become a licensed architect, one must pass the architects registration exam (ARE); a multi-part exam testing knowledge and skills in a variety of disciplines within the practice of architecture. Individual states grant licenses, and one can become licensed in multiple states. Once licensed, architects are required to meet annual continuing education requirements. ACS currently holds architectural licenses in Georgia, neighboring southeastern states and others throughout the country.
How do you communicate & present drawings ?
With a clientele that is both near by and out of state, we communicate in a means that works for the client. We host meetings at our office, presenting printed and digital presentations. We can travel to meet with clients or visit properties. We e-mail drawings and documents and can utilize group meeting and screen sharing platforms.
What type of projects do you work on ?
Primarily we design custom homes for new construction. We also work on significant renovations or additions to existing homes. Working with developers, we are involved in the design spanning a variety of elements found in a community or neighborhood. We work on Clubhouse and specialty commercial projects as well.
Who will we be working with ?
David works closely on all projects in the firm. He stays involved in projects from start through completion. When you contact the firm, you will be speaking directly with David.