Our Services + Process

• We begin with initial conversations, an intake form, and potentially a site visit, to gain preliminary understanding of the project goals, budget, timeline, and to determine compatibility. 

• If we (you, dear potential client, and Atmosphere) decide we are well-suited for a collaboration, we will put a proposal together for design services, and if agreed upon, then sign a design agreement. Our fee structure is based on the scope of services that you are seeking as well as the complexity of the project. 

• Each project begins with research to verify zoning, code, and entitlement requirements. 

• We make site visits to get to know the land, its microclimate, neighborhood, flora and fauna. A site analysis is prepared, and topography is modeled. 

• Clarification of performance goals and program refinement occur. Feasibility is double-checked. 

• A strong conceptual idea is developed through initial sketches, 3-D renderings, and a project narrative. The building’s massing, visual language, floor plan, and 

• The schematic phase is an iterative process 

• Client approval of Final Schematic Design occurs before we move on to developing the project details. 

• During design development we begin to develop the construction details that support architectural language of the building as well as the performance. We develop the building assemblies, select window manufacturers and procure quotes. 

• Energy modeling in WUFI is provided to refine design decisions and optimize the performance with the budgetary goals. 

• We manage coordination with our consulting professionals (structural, mechanical, civil engineers, solar and fire sprinkler designers). 

• Preliminary interior elevations are developed. 

• We begin developing a preliminary budget and cost estimating based on the developed plans, as early in the design process as feasible (usually we need structural engineering completed before we can begin this in earnest). 

• A working budget and construction schedule are developed. 

• We can refine the design and construction detailing if value engineering needs to occur. 

We offer in-house Interior Design and Finish Specification or are happy to work with a likeminded interior designer and lighting designer. 

• Develop an interior material palette 

• Detailed cabinet and built-in drawings 

• Material selections 

• Lighting and electrical layouts 

• Hardware and accessory selections 

• Final interiors approval 

We usher every project through any planning entitlements, required and the building permit application. 

Each project is unique and has its own requirements, but we have a systems in place to support the construction process from start to finish. 

• We are on site from groundwork through finish carpentry. Our team has a wide skill set and has been trained in the specifics of high-performance building. 

• We manage the project from groundwork until the final punch list items are completed and the keys are handed over. 

• Our project management includes coordination with our subcontractors, ordering all materials, verifying all energy performance goals with blower door tests and system commissioning, working with fabricators on custom design elements. 

• New construction projects typically take 12-16 months to complete. Deep energy retrofits and remodel projects can take similarly as long. 

• Provide additional drawings and design (additional services) 

• On going coordination with field crew 

• Scheduled site visits 

• Create or review shop drawings 

• Work with fabricators 

• Answer client questions 

• Verify energy performance and blower door tests 

• Systems commissioning 

• ADB archives project information 

• Post occupancy review