Design assist 

Ground level view of the Seattle Central Library looking up at the gray steel & black glass lozenges of the facade and the geometric angles of the building set against a bright blue sky.

Seattle Central Library

Design Assist is the critical phase where the subcontractor works with the design team to complete detailing the facade.

During this phase we help achieve the optimum balance between performance, cost, buildability, & the architect’s aesthetic vision.

With a grounding in both architecture & engineering and years of practical experience in the design office and the field, we can help bridge any gaps between the design team & the subcontractor.

Our approach

During this phase we:

  • Facilitate collaborative detailing working-sessions that result in enhancements rather than compromises to the design intent,
  • Review initial submittals (profile package drawings, materials & finishes) to ensure they meet the design intent, the performance requirements & the owner’s delivery risk tolerance,
  • Assist with realistic interactive scheduling based on our extensive past project experience,
  • Review visual mockup proposals, particularly with respect to glass, where it is crucial to assess the effect on the aesthetic of deflections, coatings & fabrication,
  • Facilitate discussions about performance mockups & site testing to provide the architect & owner with assurance the built product will meet expectations,
  • Have no brand or supplier loyalty & so can push for the absolute best solutions for the owner.

Seattle Central Library

 

 

Close up interior view through the gray steel lozenges of the facade of the Seattle Central Library, showing the city below.

 Seattle Central Library Interior 

Distant view of the Seattle Central Library showing the gray steel & black glass lozenges of the facade and the geometric angles of the building.

 Seattle Central Library Exterior 

Typical scope of work:

  • Facilitate collaborative design workshops
  • Assist with interactive scheduling

Typical scope of work:

  • Review initial profile package drawings
  • Review initial materials & finishes submittals

Typical scope of work:

  • Lead discussions about mockups & testing

Image credits:

  • Library Interior: Another Believer (CC BY-SA 4.0)
  • Library Exterior: Enhanced sky, original image by Joe Mabel (CC BY-SA 3.0)