DESIGN APPROACH
MBAJ Architecture’s project solutions reflect the thinking and values of the client. MBAJ approaches design from many levels, viewing each project as an element of the larger context for which it is being constructed. MBAJ’s design projects seek to support the operational needs and complement the aesthetic character of the project’s location.

     Project Team
     Upon commission of a project, MBAJ first assembles a Project Team that identifies key client      participants. Client members of a Project Team usually consist of administrative leaders, facilities      personnel, departmental and user representatives, and in some cases, governing board members.

     Under the leadership of an MBAJ Managing Principal, the Project Team remains involved throughout the      project design and construction process. This team approach ensures the continuity of the project is      maintained and the needs and aspirations of the collaborative team are successfully achieved.

     Project Scope Development and Building Program
     MBAJ Architecture views the Scope Development Phase as a vital initial step to ensure a successful      project. The Scope Development Phase allows the Project Team to establish communication links and      a common level of expectation for the end results. The project’s Building Program Document records the      facility needs on several levels, from the general to the specific. The Document is organized into three      parts: an overall executive summary, an analytical categorization of sections or departments, and a      room-by-room, detailed need, qualitative spatial assessment.

     Interactive Design and Evaluation of Alternatives
     MBAJ Architecture utilizes an interactive design approach to explore alternative plans and achieve      successful solutions for clients. This approach allows the client’s selected participants to become an      integral part in achieving the design solution. Through a series of round table workshops, MBAJ      Architecture works collaboratively with the Project Team to develop space needs and relationships,      review alternative project approaches, and craft a solidified schematic design. The Project Team arrives      at the most appropriate solution while keeping the project respectful of the time and resources available.

     Computer Modeling / Virtual Tour
     MBAJ Architecture maintains exceptional in-house capabilities to illustrate design alternatives and
     proposed project results in photo-real clarity. This virtual tour capability aids in the decision-making      process by allowing all involved parties to visually understand what is being explored. It facilitates the      project in achieving exceptional results respectful of resources.

COST CONTROL
Cost Control goes hand-in-hand with the proactive management of planning and building design projects. MBAJ Architecture has demonstrated for over three decades its ability to accurately forecast and contain cost, while maintaining a balance between the programmatic scope and funding available.

MBAJ Architecture uses three methods concurrently to maximize the probability of cost control success:

             1. A focused review of internal databases for recently bid projects of similar size, scope, and                  location; to interpolate and apply the relevant information to the current project at hand.
             2. An engagement of a professional, independent cost-estimating firm, familiar with the project type                  and location, to develop a detailed line item cost estimate at the conclusion of each phase.
             3. A poll conducted of vendors and local contractors to verify the accuracy of the first two techniques.

SCHEDULE MANAGEMENT
For each project awarded, MBAJ Architecture creates a Milestone Schedule. This becomes a tool for reviewing progress and tracking the time implications of important submittal dates and decision-making deadlines. The early development of a Milestone Schedule of submittals for the design and construction phases is key to the Project Team successfully meeting the time constraints of each project. To be effective, the schedule document must remain fluid and be updated to reflect changing project conditions, while respecting the required completion period.

QUALITY ASSURANCE
MBAJ’s face-to-face meetings at the beginning, middle, and end of each phase of work include all of the design team members. Client project management and maintenance teams are invited to attend these meetings. Throughout the project, an MBAJ Principal is the Project Manager and the primary contact. The MBAJ Principal / Project Manager performs the final document coordination review.

Additionally, another MBAJ Principal, acting as a second pair of eyes, performs a detailed check on coordination of trades and coordination between the plans and the specifications. This review serves to prevent construction-related problems and to minimize opportunities for change orders.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
The MBAJ Construction Administrator, a Project Team member, performs constructability reviews throughout the design phase of the project and conducts on-site document reviews at the end of each design phase. This extra effort, in addition to the Project Team’s normal exploratory visits, enhances the Team’s ability to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the documents produced at MBAJ.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
MBAJ Architecture believes in an energy conscious, resource responsive, sustainable design process for all of our projects. This approach includes an evaluation of construction cost versus long-term maintenance cost for any decision reached. We evaluate all system and material decisions with an eye towards energy efficient and cost-effective solutions. Our approach to energy issues includes the evaluation of building orientation, day-lighting strategies, a thorough envelope analysis and a building systems/controls analysis. MBAJ is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and is well versed in the LEED Green Building ratings program. Currently, MBAJ has two LEED Accredited Professionals on staff.