Biggerstaff, Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects approach the Architectural Design as a Team Concept with the client being a member of the Team. We bring together the expertise necessary to complete a project and feel as though we have the record of accomplishing our task in a very timely manner. Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects makes a commitment to each project, no matter the size, to perform the highest quality services in meeting the requirements of the project. Our ability has resulted in several repeat clients who have come to us with their architectural needs over and over again. Your project will be handled the same way we have handled all of our projects for the past 25 years.

A principal of our firm will personally direct the work, setting the scheduling, providing probable cost of construction, and keeping the cost of the facility to a minimum. The Principal in charge will coordinate the Design Team and supervise the construction documents. The construction of these projects will also be personally observed by the same principal, with other members of the Design Team observing the construction as necessary.

We begin all projects designed and constructed by Biggerstaff, Minden & Hall with Schematic and Design Development Phases gathering necessary information to include Geotechnical and Topographical information, local, state and federal codes and requirements, working with the client on preliminary drawings and recommending alternatives to accomplish the desired goal. Through historic and current information we compare types of construction and materials to determine an economical and suitable solution for the project.

We have extensive experience with developing Construction Documents, Plans and Specifications, and the Bidding / Negotiation process.

Knowledge of City, State and Federal Requirements

Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects has gained experience working with City, state, and Federal Requirements. We have experience working with State Building Services and similar public agencies, as well as complying with all ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.

Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects is very familiar with the building codes and city ordinances that are in effect.

Means of Construction Management and Communication

On all projects designed and constructed by Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects we routinely prepare Instructions to Bidders as part of Specifications and handle the preparation of bidding / negotiations and complete bidding procedures as required. We have experience analyzing bid proposals from contractors, making recommendations to Owner concerning award of contract. Conducting pre-bid / pre-construction conferences. Notices to proceed construction start dates, and similar related activities concerning bid procedures and contract selection. We feel that twenty-five years experience in this business would meet your qualifications in the area of bid procurement, construction management and communication.

The Principal-in-charge will communicate with the Owner directly to insure full understanding of project progress.

We have experience with different Construction Management processes, standard construction management methods as well as Owners taking on the role of General Contractor. It is our belief that each project merits it's own individual management requirements. We will work with the Owner and Contractor to establish the best means of communication for the project.

Field Observation

Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects have offices in Fort Smith and Russellville because we feel that personal contact with the progress of the job during construction is essential to the services we provide. Our firm doesn't not employ inspectors. Our coordination of field observation is handled by the Principal-in-charge with the assistance of Engineers that are involved in that particular project. We feel that our personal involvement in field observation helps the job move smoother with more informed information to make decisions as needed. This approach keeps us more informed of the progress of the work and of any problems as they arise. This in-the-field experience is incorporated into the design of the next project.

Reviewing mill, shop, and working drawings are a standard practice on every project.

Financial and Contract Management

Our experience with the project, from Design Development to Construction Documents to Field Observation, provides us with the extensive knowledge of that project in preparation of financial documents, such as budgetary information, contractor's estimates, pay requests, and financial progress reports. This experience also provides us with a valuable position from which to develop progress reports, change orders and revisions to the contract documents.

Project Closeout

The Principle-in-charge conducts final review of the completed work and issues the Certificates of Substantial Completion. Scheduling and attending warranty inspections is also the responsibility of the Principle-in-charge. Preparing record drawing and as-built drawings are standard practice on every project.

Fee Schedule

Biggerstaff Minden & Hall P.A./ Architects utilizes the Arkansas State Building Services (SBS) Standards & Criteria Architectural Service Fee Schedule Chart. 3-209. Pages 3-14, to set architectural fees. Exact fee for design services can be discussed at formal meetings with the client.