Services
Gravity::Works is involved in each phase of the architectural, engineering and design process. We bring the big-picture view necessary to create beautiful and functional spaces that serve a purpose for years to come.
Our process doesn’t begin with architecture, but with active listening and research to better understand our clients and their challenges. We believe innovative and thoughtful architecture follows intentional investment in human capital.
Our practice strives to shape built environments that serve the needs and aspirations of people today, tomorrow and long into the future.
Programming
Think of this as the roadmap phase in which we discover problems and opportunities. We collect, analyze and synthesize project requirements and parameters to arrive at a comprehensive solution that maximizes the client vision.
It starts with engaging the client to identify a “wish list” and capture the vision of how the building will be used. We then generate a solution that guides the development of future and schematic plans. Our approach includes:
- Master Planning
- Facility Assessment/Audit
- Site Analysis/Planning
Master Planning
For many projects, Master Planning is a critical first step. It’s a collaborative kickoff involving the client/owner, stakeholders, and consultants. We work together to imagine a plan that considers the vision, budget, and opportunities of the site. As a steward of our client’s resources, we focus on how design might cater to both present and future needs.
We will produce a comprehensive, living document that represents the client vision, professional opinions, and analysis. This valuable report serves as a point of reference for financial forecasting and future decision-making.
Facility Assessment/Audit
From our early days, Gravity::Works has functioned as a strategist on behalf of our clients. We collect extensive building condition data to guide the most informed and cost-effective decisions. A history of service across multiple industries has yielded a deep portfolio of solutions and given us experienced eyes to see the impact of age, design, construction methods and materials on a decision to build, expand, renovate, or walk away.
Bond Planning
Preparing for a bond election to support renovation, expansion or growth can be enormously challenging. It’s also an exciting opportunity to consider the state of your educational facilities—to really think of them as more than a collection of buildings—and make positive changes that reflect key priorities and core values.
We’ve created a Bond Planning Guide that will provide you with more details on our approach and experience in community-driven campaigns.
Community Engagement
At Gravity::Works, we appreciate that people are the most important part of a project. We act as catalysts for civic initiatives by promoting active community participation. We work with communities to develop unique plans that effectively employ stakeholder voices to achieve consensus including:
- Open-house formats
- Focus group meetings
- Formal public hearings
- Design charrettes
Architecture
The planning steps are critical to address first, as they lay the foundation and ensure that our team can work efficiently for you.
During schematic design, we work with your Project Team to start putting concepts into sketches. You’ll be in a consistent feedback loop as we explore ideas for the scope. We’ll provide early renderings for you to help visualize the possibilities of your new space.
The objective of design development is to apply the feedback and drill down into the design. Our consultant team will plug in and provide their insight and direction. When your Project Team gives us the green light on the budget and design, we’ll move forward.
Generating the construction documents, is our time to put our heads down and finish the details. We’ll work with you to select the materials and finishes and get your project ready for construction.
Code Compliance
Gravity::Works Principal David Stewart says it best: codes inform. They provide clear and objective direction. The construction industry is evolving rapidly and codes are developed in response to advancements in building materials, methods and systems. Understanding that code compliance is vital to successful project delivery.
We provide assistance with code review and regulatory approvals throughout design and construction. For unique project situations, we can help develop feasible solutions and negotiate special code approvals. Bottom line, time is money, and our early involvement minimizes potential delays during permitting and construction.
Interior Design
Interior design decisions are vital to the success of any project, and it’s about more than just choosing colors. We combine passion, research, expertise with big doses of persistent ingenuity and creativity to deliver interior spaces that are welcoming and intentional.
We integrate solutions with the overall architecture to create environments that positively impact people as they work, learn, love and enjoy the space. Visit our Portfolio to see examples of:
- Space planning
- Finish selection
- Lighting design
- Graphics
Construction Administration
As a concept to completion firm, construction administration is an integral part of our architectural process. Construction can feel like a maze with really high walls. We help clients, developers and contractors navigate in the most effective way possible to master design goals and nail the vision. We believe our support and attention set us apart.
Because we are directly responsible to the client and project owner, our process involves quality contractors and consultants in a cost-effective way. Our role is to protect projects from adverse situations and keep the client informed. Designed to protect project integrity, our full scope of construction administration services includes:
- Site visits/field observation
- Attendance at job meetings, pre-construction meetings and presentations
- Pre-bid support
- Drawing/submittal reviews
- Release of construction payments
- Preparation of record drawings
- Assistance with inspection
- Project management
- Code review
- Analysis of cost systems and life cycle