Process
Five phases, one engineer from start to finish.
Every project moves through a version of the same five phases. Some are compressed, some are extended — but the arc is the same, and the person leading the work is the same across all of them.
Consultation
A short call — sometimes a site visit — to understand the program, the site, and the constraints. We use it to decide whether we're the right fit and to propose an approach and fee structure.
Feasibility & Concept
Before a drawing is committed, we test the structural idea against cost, buildability, and code. A brief memo documents the tradeoffs and the recommended direction, and the architect's schematic design moves forward on a solid base.
Design Development
Structural framing, lateral system, foundation, and key details are developed alongside the architect's design. We coordinate with MEP and geotech, and we issue progress drawings and calculations as the package takes shape.
Permit & Documentation
We produce the full construction-document set and the calculation package submitted to the jurisdiction. We respond to plan-check corrections promptly and handle addenda and clarifications through to permit issuance.
Construction Administration
During construction we visit the site at structural milestones, respond to RFIs, and make field-condition adjustments in writing. We close out the project with a final inspection and stamped documentation.
Notes
On fees, schedule, and communication.
A few operating principles we default to.
Fees — We typically structure fees as a fixed-price package per phase, with a clear scope boundary. Construction administration is billed hourly against a retainer. Feasibility and due-diligence work is fixed-price and fast.
Schedule — We quote a realistic permit-drawing timeline at the outset and commit to it. If anything changes — scope, site, architect's package — we say so promptly and re-baseline in writing.
Communication — Email is the default channel for anything that needs a record. Phone and site visits for anything that needs context. We try to respond within one business day — often much faster during plan check or construction.
Documentation — Drawings are organized, titleblocks are consistent, calculation packages are indexed and cross-referenced to sheets. Plan checkers and contractors tell us these small things matter more than any clever detail.