Clients usually come to us with some preconceived notions about what an architect does. They understand that we can design a space, whether commercial or residential, that will meet their needs, as well as take into account any regulations or codes that apply to the project. They also tend to expect that once the design is complete and approved by all applicable parties, the plans will be handed over to them or to the general contractor they have chosen to be completed without any further input from the architect.
At M. Grisafe Architect, we have a different approach—one that is often a pleasant surprise to our Long Beach clients. After the design phase is completed, we work with your general contractor until the project is finished, providing any feedback or guidance they may need in order to complete your project according to the plans. We want to make sure the end product is exactly what you had hoped for, and the only way we can do that is to maintain contact with the general contractor throughout the building process.
We realize that not all architects do this, and it is not technically part of an architect’s job, but we provide this extra step for our clients because their satisfaction is of utmost importance to us. Even if we do our job perfectly, and create a design that is exactly what our client wants, if the end result doesn’t meet their needs or satisfy their vision, the project cannot be considered a success. Perfectly executed architectural drawings are worthless if they are not properly followed by the often numerous contractors involved in the project.
Some people may call what we do “going above and beyond.” We see it as just part of what we do as architects. Other architects in Long Beach may not choose to follow up after the design phase is complete, but since advocating for our clients is one of our core values as an architectural firm, we see this as a vital step in the process.
When you are looking for an architect in Long Beach for your commercial or residential project, ask them how involved they plan to be after the architectural plans have been completed and approved. If the answer is anything other than, “As involved as we need to be to make sure the project a success,” you might want to keep looking.
M. Grisafe Architect would love the opportunity to talk with you about your upcoming project and discuss how we can work with you to make your vision a reality. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
