From shipping delays to unforeseen site conditions, construction presents plenty of unknowns. To prepare for these situations, it’s wise to set aside a contingency before you head into construction. Contingencies often equal 5-10% of a project’s construction cost, though the exact amount depends on the project’s size and complexity.

Utilizing a green building rating system is one of the most effective ways to achieve a sustainable project. Backed by decades of research, these third-party systems can reduce carbon emissions, improve occupant well-being, and increase accountability.

When planning a building project, knowing how you pay is as important as knowing what you pay. An understanding of billing for architectural services and construction work helps you allocate funds and budget accordingly.

Successful building projects rely on rigorous quality assurance measures, and to comply with code requirements, every project must go through testing and inspections during construction. For some building owners, especially those taking on their first project, these tests can come as a surprise.

Site selection is one of the first steps of any building project. Before you can bring your vision to life, you need a location.

Commissioning is the process of analyzing a building’s systems to confirm they are working correctly and prevent operational inefficiencies. The service is often an additional project cost that provides a return on investment through energy savings and improved occupant comfort.

Architectural renderings are a 3D representation of a proposed design. They can help you visualize a completed space and communicate design decisions with your stakeholders.

There are many expenses to track on a building project. From labor costs to legal fees, the list can feel overwhelming for even the most experienced building owner.

Adopting a building certification system is one of the most effective ways to reduce your project’s environmental impact. There are many certification systems on the market, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), WELL, and Living Building Challenge (LBC).

Every architecture firm has a different approach to design. Our approach is pragmatic. We draw from our Midwestern roots and take inspiration from the barns dotting the Iowa landscape.