How We Work
F&D Integra specializes in various types of projects. From large scale commercial buildings, to small residential renovations, we deliver results tailored to our clients’ needs. We work in phases that enrich the final product by considering multiple solutions throughout the design process.

Phase I
The Program

Programming is the foundation of the project. To help you articulate wants, needs and expectations, we ask detailed questions. Time invested here reaps huge results.

An example: if a client hosts large parties as well as intimate dinners, we know it’s best to design a flexible kitchen that accommodates a catering staff or cozy gourmet cooking. If concentration is important to your work, we will design a plan that affords privacy while maintaining important traffic patterns.

Concept Drawings

In this phase, considerations detailed in the program for your project are converted into drawings. We generate multiple concepts and ideas to help you visualize the possibilities.

Design Development

Once a concept has been selected, we expand it into three-dimensional form so you can understand the final results. In this stage, designs are typically expanded to include lighting, cabinetry and other details. If we are providing interior design, that work typically begins in this phase.

Phase II
Construction Documents

These documents detail the project for construction. They illustrate the final dimensions, components and specifics. Because many owners want to obtain pricing from more than one contractor, these documents provide the framework for contractors to bid competitively.

Contractor Selection

If you like, F&D Integra will help you choose a contractor.

Construction

During construction, F&D Integra reviews the contractor’s progress, administers the contract, helps answer unresolved issues, and reports to you.

Completion

You and the architect make a final list of wrap-up tasks for the contractor to complete your project.

How Fees Are Established
Like most service professionals, architects base fees on the time required by the work. An architect spends work time detailing the way to build a vision.

Typical contracts are based on an hourly fee, a lump sum fee or a combination of the two. We decide together which is most appropriate for your project.

Hourly Fees

Hourly fees typically apply while we work with you to determine the scope of your project and the tasks you need performed. Invoices indicate the number of hours billed.

Lump Sum Fees

When the scope and tasks of the project are clear, we can estimate the number of hours required and develop a lump-sum fee. Payment occurs in pre-established increments. Additional tasks or changes generated by the client are charged as additional time.

As a point of information, F&D Integra billings have historically ranged from 7.5 percent to 12.5 percent of construction value.

Direct Reimbursement

These expenses, incurred on the owner’s behalf are billed monthly and include items such as mileage, telephone charges, printing and copies.

Consultation Fee

For owners who require only a brief consultation or for projects of a very small scope, we offer an advisory service.

Contracts

Depending on the size and complexity of the project, F&D Integra uses either a standard industry contract or a typical letter agreement. Billing may be monthly, based on the percentage of work performed, or may occur at the conclusion of key phases.