Architecture and construction involve many sets of processes. It can be hard for a client to know where to start and what opportunities are available to develop a piece of land. Feasibility studies can be used to kickstart this complex process and use graphical representation to depict the expansive opportunities for development. Let’s explore some of the core aspects of a feasibility study and why they may be a valuable resource for a development project.
Site Analysis
Site analysis is the first step into a feasibility study. The analysis takes an in-depth investigation of the current conditions of the site including soils, wind patterns, topography, and sun angles. Along with this existing natural site information, it is important to understand the availability of utilities such as water, electricity, sewage, gas and how/where they can be fed into the site. These site conditions will influence how the building is constructed, where it is on site, and how to optimize the building to enhance sustainability, social interaction, structural integrity, and landscape design. Determining these constraints gives us a good base to design around to ensure compliance with the program, reduce risk, stay within budget, and begin to develop a feasible, efficient, and successful project.
Zoning and Regulatory Compliance
Zoning and regulatory requirements inherently become an integral part of design that must be considered before they become an issue in the future – costing time, money, and project feasibility. Zoning requirements are set by the local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs). These requirements are set to ensure development within a jurisdiction is regulated and meet minimum standards. Regulations vary by jurisdiction but often include parking requirements, materiality, use, setbacks, durability, height, number of stories, and signage. Understanding, interpreting, and implementing city zoning codes into the project may be the most important part of the feasibility study and why it is recommended to use the service of a licensed architect. A licensed architect can bring valuable insight about local zoning code and bring forth issues they have had in previous projects and prevent the same issues from arising in your project.
Programming and Space Planning
Programming is where the project’s character, function, and interaction get defined. After understanding zoning and site requirements we can assimilate programming, adjacencies, and functional needs in the design. Space planning benefits the most with strong client involvement and input to ensure their vision of the project is represented. The client and architect should collaborate to derive building operational needs, space functions, and accessories to help define the design intent and system of space. Along with developing the space and understanding its interaction to context, it is consequential to decern other requirements in the space such as occupancy limits, ADA access, and circulation. Again, this is why it is advisable to work with a licensed architect to ensure all codes and regulations are met early in the project. Effective programming will help mitigate inefficiencies as well as define budget and scope of work.
Budget, Cost Estimation, and Project Timing
The final step of a feasibility study is developing a budget through cost estimation and a potential project timeline. This step defines the meaning of a feasibility study; when it comes down to it a project not within budget is not a project at all. Cost estimation can be done by any licensed professional, but here at SHYFT we are fortunate enough to have an in-house construction team with many experienced project managers, superintendents, and staff that have estimated many projects. As a design-build firm, our construction and design teams often collaborate on projects, providing valuable expertise that helps us meet client needs while staying within budget.
In conclusion, a design feasibility study from a licensed professional is an essential part of a potential project. This service will provide integral project logistics including site analysis, zoning and regulatory compliance, programming, and project budget and timing. This approach will help mitigate risk, develop a plan, and ensure long-term project success from the start of the project through the life of the building. Without a feasibility study, the project is more likely to incur zoning code review delays, project budget overruns, and worst-case: a project that never gets built.