Services

  • Including work from conceptual design through to end of construction. Broken into seven categories, as noted below, Full Architectural Services includes Programming and Pre-design work, Schematic Design, Design Development, Contract Documents, Bidding and Negotiation, Construction Administration and Post construction work.

    Each architectural phase structures the level of detail conveyed by the architect through drawings, documents and correspondence with the team.

    Programming and Pre-Design
    This phase involves understanding the client's needs, goals, and project requirements. RDA excels at driving this process with clients, ensuring comprehensive understanding is achieved through site analysis, feasibility studies, establishing project objectives as well as budget and timeline.

    Schematic Design (SD)
    In this phase, the architect will develop preliminary design concepts and present them to the client. Methods used include precedent studies, digital and analog sketches, diagrams, and 3D visualizations to convey design intent. Often overlooked, Iteration is an important and ongoing tool used at RDA. Iteration allows for ongoing feedback and integration from, client, consultant and municipality feedback. RDA uses iteration extensively during the Schematic and Design Development phases of a project.

    Design Development (DD)
    Once the schematic design is approved by the client, the design is further refined, incorporating details, materials, and systems as required. This phase also involves coordination with consultants, such as structural, mechanical, electrical engineers, landscape architects, and sometimes other specialists to ensure the design is comprehensive and coordinated, anticipating all requirements for zoning and permit approvals as well as construction.

    Contract Documents (CD)
    Often referred to as ‘construction documents’, ‘working drawings’ or ‘blue prints’, these detailed drawings and written specifications are created during this phase. Construction Documents provide the content on which the construction contract is based, as well instructions for contractors to price and construct the project accurately. They include floor plans, elevations, sections, and technical specifications.

    Bidding and Negotiation
    The architect usually assists the client in the selection of contractors through the bidding process. Most clients aren’t aware that the architect’s primary purpose in this phase, while assisting during contract negotiations with a builder, is to ensure that contractors have the information they need for fair bidding as well as checking that scopes of work aren’t omitted from a bid price.

    Construction Administration
    During construction the architect oversees the project by visiting the site regularly, working closely with the contractor to ensure adherence to the contract documents is followed. They respond to contractor questions, review shop drawing and material submission, and conduct site inspections.

    Post-Construction
    After the project is completed, the architect may provide post-occupancy evaluation and follow-up services. They, along with other professionals, assess the performance of the building, address any issues, and ensure client satisfaction.

  • RDA offers superior space planning and programming services to clients. These skills are critical to ensuring efficiency, function and coordination are achieved in all architectural design.

    Space Planning
    Founder Rosalie Dawson’s educational background was in Environmental Design from the Ontario Collage of Art and Design, where she wone best in class her thesis year. The knowledge and design methodology learned became a foundation for future RDA work. Now as a team, RDA actively takes great efforts to create architecture which considers equally the exterior massing and structure of a building as well as the spatial experience and function from within.

  • Architectural feasibility studies are assessments conducted at the early stages of a project to determine the viability and potential success of a proposed architectural design or development. These studies aim to evaluate the practicality, sustainability, and financial feasibility of a project before committing substantial resources to its implementation.

    Assessments undertaken by the RDA team include:

    Site Analysis
    Assessing the physical characteristics and constraints of the project site, including topography, soil conditions, access, and infrastructure availability.

    Technical Feasibility
    RDA works closely with engineers to evaluate the technical requirements and complexities of the project, such as structural considerations, mechanical systems, and building codes compliance.

    Financial Feasibility
    Examining the economic viability of the project with input from quantity surveyors and potential return on investment through determining lease, rental or sales or resale profits. This assessment helps determine if the project is financially viable and aligns with the client's budget and resources.

    Legal and Regulatory Compliance
    Identifying and understanding the applicable zoning regulations, building codes, and legal requirements that need to be addressed during the design and construction phases.

    Sustainability Assessment
    Working with engineers as required while considering the environmental impact and sustainability aspects of the project, including energy efficiency, material selection, and potential environmental constraints.

    Risk Assessment
    Identifying potential risks and challenges associated with the project and developing strategies to mitigate them.

    By conducting architectural feasibility studies, architects and project stakeholders can make informed decisions about whether to proceed with a proposed design, make necessary modifications, or explore alternative options. These studies help minimize risks, optimize project outcomes, and ensure the project's overall feasibility and success.

  • Elevate your commercial developments and retail spaces with our firm's specialized retail services.

    For Developers and Landlords

    From feasibility and master planning to strategic tenant repositioning and anchor tenant infill, we offer a comprehensive range of solutions. Our expertise extends to internal development and leasing tools, including lease and merchandise plans, unit scenario drawings, and tenant packages. We author comprehensive Design Criteria to ensure the project’s design vision is upheld within tenant spaces and conduct detailed Tenant Drawing Reviews for design compliance. Our expertise extends to Area Certifications, accurately measuring constructed tenant units for final rent determination.

    For Tenants and Retailers

    We provide design visioning and project management for captivating and functional store environments, simplifying processes with our guidance on navigating Design Criteria and separating Landlord vs. Tenant Work. Streamline your design and fit-out phase by utilizing our expertise to create efficient Tenant Fit-Out packages that cover store design, fixturing, and servicing. Our approach combines creativity and efficiency, transforming concepts into vibrant, well-crafted spaces that resonate with both landlords and tenants.

  • Drawing on our expertise in several multi-unit developments, we have honed our approach to quickly deliver clients with exceptional marketing material, perfect for Project launches and realtor packages. From renderings to unit plans, our team excels in producing compelling and concise visuals that captivate potential buyers.

  • A designation recognized worldwide, RDA’s team includes trained and credentialled PMP members. This background enhances RDA’s ability to offer standard and expanded architectural services.

How RDA Can Help You

  • Use your unique criteria; design aesthetic, technical requirements, budgetary restraint, and time frame to establish an appropriate design solution and plan for moving forward.

  • Outline the options available to make your project a reality by reviewing the steps required to go from initial design idea to construction completion. There isn’t one way to accomplish this, but there are milestones that can help your project be successful.

    Prepare design drawings to clearly communicate your design to you, for feedback and refinement.

    Prepare construction drawings that clearly reflect the technical requirements of your design as well as required governing agency regulations such as the Ontario Building Code and municipal by-laws.

    Coordinate with consultants if necessary. Depending on the complexity of your project, engaging with Engineers, surveyors or other specialized service providers will enable a well defined scope of work, estimated construction cost and construction timeline.

  • By considering the long term ownership of a project as well as the upfront costs, we can increase your value for money by ensuring a holistic approach is taken.

    Utilize passive and active sustainable strategies to save you money down the road.

    Lead you through the permitting process with your municipality, making sure that when your construction starts there aren’t any negative surprises.

    Represent your interests during construction to make sure what is built reflects the design.

  • Architects in Ontario are licensed under a self-regulating body called the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA).

    As with other professions in Canada, the OAA “maintains and publicly demonstrates the status of it’s members as competent, qualified professionals, and also regulates the use of the title “architect”. Along with ongoing regulated continuing education obligations, Architects are required to maintain Annual Practice Insurance and hold a Certificate of Practice.

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