When beginning an Architectural Project it is typical for somebody to look for someone who can design their new building or interior space. However, an architect typically isn’t able to do the full project by themselves. Depending on the work scope of the project other professional consultants may be necessary to complete the project.
Below is a breakdown of some of the potentially necessary Professionals for a given Architectural Project:
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Consultants – Typically an architect would be responsible for designing the space, while the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Consultants would handle designing how the space would get its Heating & Cooling, its Power, and Water & Sewer Connections. In the state of Nevada, Architects are able to provide MEP Design with some limitations as projects get larger, so sometimes an additional consultant may not be necessary for your project. If you wish to learn more about Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Consultants, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Interior Designer – After an Architect establishes what the space will be shaped like, it will be pertinent to make sure the interior of the space looks great. If you as the Client don’t have an exact design in mind and Interior Designer will be able to help establish colors and materials for making the space look as beautiful as possible. SSA has an on staff Interior Designer who would be able to help with your project. If you wish to learn more about Interior Designers, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Civil Engineer – Before a Building can be built on a site, the site needs to be properly graded and prepared for the building. With this being the case a Civil Engineer will be necessary to provide grading plans for any ground up building projects. Beyond that a Civil Engineer can be helpful for designing a new site layout around an existing building also. If you wish to learn more about Civil Engineers, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Structural Engineer – Once a Design for a ground up building is complete it will be necessary for a Structural Engineer to design the supports necessary for holding the new building. Structural Engineers may also be needed for existing buildings also. Depending on what is going into the space a Structural Engineer will be necessary for new heavy equipment including new roof top HVAC units. If you wish to learn more about Structural Engineers, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Geotechnical Engineer – Before a new building project can begin to be designed from a Civil or Structural standpoint, the site and its existing soil needs to be tested to see if it is viable to be built on. A Geotechnical Engineer would be able to provide this test and a report regarding the soils ability to be built on. Once the report is in hand the Structural and Civil Engineers may proceed with their work. SSA generally recommends getting a Geotechnical Report prior to purchasing any sites, determining whether or not the site is compatible with your potential project prior to purchase will save a great deal of time and money. If you wish to learn more about Geotechnical Engineers, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Planning, Use, and Zoning Consultants – Prior to pursuing a project it is important to see if your projects use is even allowed on your selected parcel. It may be necessary to submit to the Planning & Zoning Department to change the Zoning associated with the parcel. Other times the Zoning may be correct but the exact use may need to be submitted and discussed with the Planning & Zoning Department prior to approval. The Planning & Zoning Department also reviews most exterior changes to existing buildings and any ground up buildings. It may be helpful to hire a consultant to complete these different submissions for you as they have the experience to complete the process. SSA can also help with submission to Planning & Zoning if requested. If you wish to learn more about Planning, Use, and Zoning Consultants, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
ADA Consultants – All Commercial Projects need to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act with this being the case it is important ensure your project is ADA Compliant as soon as possible to avoid redesigns and reconstruction. With this in mind it may be helpful to hire an ADA Consultant to review the plans prior to construction and to visit the site during the construction process. Alternatively it will likely benefit you to hire an Architect who is already well versed with the ADA. SSA has done ADA Consulting and ADA Compliant projects for years. If you wish to learn more about ADA Consultants, click here to view our Youtube Video on the Topic.
Those are just some of the possible consultants that may be necessary for your project. If you wish to learn about each one more in depth, click here to visit our Youtube Playlist and learn about the above mentioned Other Professionals that can help bring your project to life.
