We specialize in pre-purchase site analysis as a Client Representative in coordination with Owners and Realtors in order to best define property potential and ultimate goals. Services include Land Development Review, Zoning criteria examination (with alternative options identified), Neighborhood Association pre-approvals (as possible), Deed Restriction research, including governing body limitations, if any. Feasibility Studies and Schematic Designs are offered prior to purchase to insure Clients' needs can be met. In addition, full Architectural and Contracting services are offered from our Team or recommendations can be made to connect you with your optimal Architect and/or Contractor to meet your aesthetic design desires as well as timeline.
A current project reflects a somewhat common occurrence for many properties. To take advantage of the new legislation that enables one to lease their property to Visitors, the property manager was unable to secure one as an exterior deck adjacent to the pool addition had not been permitted, nor had a recent house addition permit been finalized. Through the City Permitting process we continue to update the application in order to minimize cost for multiple non-compliances. Be it that the current deck is illegally placed within the rear setback, we have been granted the authority to apply for a variance based on misinformation from the Contractor. We are currently in pursuit of a variance in order to acquire the necessary permit such that the house will be legally documented and qualify for the City Leasing Program.
A recent project includes a Feasibility Study, during escrow (prior to purchase), for an addition of a 7-car garage, guest suites, exercise room including the remodel of the existing garage into a media room on a lake front property. The priority in this study mandated the analysis of conditioned-space square footage vs. available land available for a supporting septic system. Easement research and a forced relocation of utilities was mandated and parameters/costs were understood prior to the time of purchase. A full Schematic Design set was created with Site Plan in order to apply for LCRA approval of the amended septic system. A 3-D model was created to confirm approval of desired aesthetic for Clients in addition to a full cost estimate of construction. Upon occupancy of the existing residence, structural failure in the existing residence floors, despite pre-purchase professional inspection, mandated acquisition of a forensic structural engineer teamed with a lawyer specializing in construction in an attempt to correct the situation. The alliances were initiated and engaged and we now await resolution with the prior Owner. We had a fantastic team to work through a unexpected situation.
PROJECT TEAM:
Client: Owner
Architect: Suzanne Rose, Registered Architect, Wayside Resources, Inc.
Associates: James Cormier, Registered Architect
Estimator/Advisor: Peter Dick, PDAB
Legal Counsel: Seth Meisel
Forensic Structural Engineer: Steve Nelson Legal Counsel
Broker: Richard Schley
Referral by: Laurie Smith Design Associates
REVIT adviser: Darrell Smith, The Mendicant Architect
Some more examples.....
Mecca Gym & Spa was conceived by the Owners of bella Salon of Austin. As a Senior Associate in the firm of Steinbomer & Associates, I was gifted with an excellent selection from our staff. Our team began feasibility studies to explore the appropriate location for the downtown venture to create an inspiring community space for personalized fitness and world-class spa services. Initially, we explored three different locations, ultimately designing a fourth simply on the front portion of site number three. All locations were evaluated based on Client requirements: a large central space for workout including individual coaching and group training, a spacious and tranquil spa area with private rooms, wet sauna, showering and dressing areas and a health bar/lounge. Not only was the interior space foremost in the design, but also the element of ease in accessibility to the building for this was a central focus to accomplish occupancy requirements. 'Parking leads design' is the phrase most commonly used by Architects for urban environments.
PROJECT TEAM:
Client: Owner, mecca gym & spa, Austin Texas
Owner: Developer, 524 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas
Architect: Robert Steinbomer, Principal, Steinbomer & Associates Architects
Designer: Suzanne Rose, Senior Associate, Steinbomer & Associates Architects
Workforce: The entire staff of Steinbomer & Associates Architects
MEP Engineers: Tom Green & Company Engineers, Inc.
Plan Review: Doug Votra, Commercial Plan Review, City of Austin Building Department
Radio Coffee & Beer...
Wayside Resources, Inc. acted as a sub-consultant on this project. The Owner wanted to feel confident of maximum usability. This included, but was not limited to, verification of allowable parking for occupied space which included a proposal to use the existing house in south Austin with the addition of a new exterior patio, researching the requirement for sprinkling, restroom sizes and accessibility. Our research included, but was not limited to, defining Austin's new side-street parking allowances, rebutting the City's mandate that exterior patio space be considered 'occupied space' and thus, requiring it to be parked and sprinkled.
Handicap accessibility was also studied as to efficiency and elegance for both Patron and Staff circulation. Reviews with City staff insured our homework to be accurately presentable to the Client.
We were not the final architects of the project as the Client had previous contractual obligations.
PROJECT TEAM:
Research: James Cormier & Suzanne Rose
Plan Review: Doug Votra, Commercial Plan Review, City of Austin Building Department