Broker research to identify potential locations/properties for sale
Tour sites w/ Architect

Real Estate Attorney prepare/review Purchase & Sale Agreement (PSA)

Environmental Report – Phase 1 (if report indicated potential issues, then Phase 2 testing)
Property Survey by Civil Engineer (check for encroachments and easements)
Soils Testing by Geotechnical Engineer (required for structural engineering)
Architect to research City Planning and Zoning codes to determine intended use(s) are permitted.
Professionals and Fee Structure
Architect – initial design fee, then once scope is determined prepare a contract - percentage
cost of construction or fixed fee
Professional Engineers and Consultants – cost per sq. ft. or fixed fee
[Surveyor – Soils, Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Engineers]
[Interior Designer, Lighting Designer and Landscape Architect]
Land Use Consultant – expedite entitlements and permits – fixed fee
Project Manager /Owner’s Rep – consultant to help manage the project – monthly fixed fee

Develop list of company / individual needs, number and size spaces
Private offices, workstations and meeting rooms
Special requirements – screening rms, editorial, audio recording
Amenities – lounge, kitchen, indoor-outdoor space, play areas
Architect to prepare overall project schedule

Architect inspiration sketches
Space plans (simple floor plans) – Potential Different Versions
Discuss over all look and feel

Floor plans, 3D building renderings and suggested materials palette
Notes and specs for contractor initial construction budget by General Contractor

Further building design – Physical Scale Model and interior 3D renderings
Proposals / Engauge Consultants & Engineers
Prepare Initial set of plans coordinated with design team

New buildings need approval by City Planning to make sure they comply with Zoning requirements.
Santa Monica has the Architectural Review Board that includes a public hearing for approval

Architectural plans and engineering for building department submittal
Selection of finish materials, lighting/plumbing fixture and furniture

Interview or Pre-qualify General Contractors
Bid plans during plan check submittal
(City of LA quickest, then Culver City/W. Hollywood with Santa Monica longest)

Respond and coordinate city comments back to design team
Re-submit corrected plans

Review bids to see what design changes are acceptable to lower price

Negotiate Fixed Price or Cost Plus a Fee Contract based on final city comments
and value engineering construction documents
Project Schedule

Weekly conference calls and/or site meetings
RFI’s (request for information issued by GC to architect)
Change orders – plus or minus
Submittals issued by GC to architect for final approval (plumbing & light fixtures,
materials, hardware, finishes)
Pay applications – Architect to review and certify work completed
IT/Data wiring & Security (MPAA certified if production facility)

Fixtures and finishes
Install Furniture and Workstations
IT & Computers
C of O and/or Occupancy
Punch list
Close out and Warranties