Longo ARCHITECTURE Studio, LLC

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about Architecture and Our Firm:

Questions about Architecture and Our Firm

1. Do you offer a Design-Build option?

Answer: We are strictly an architectural design firm. As the owner, you hire the architect to perform a job, which includes looking out for your best interest. When a contractor presents a price to construct the building, the architect will review the figures to evaluate the cost. If the prices come in over budget, your architect will help you determine what choices need to be made to reduce the cost of your building. It is our feeling that if the company designing your building is the same company pricing your building, where is the unbiased opinion in making decisions to save you money?

2. But what if I really like the idea of one-stop shopping?

Answer: Our solution to the client who is interested in one-stop shopping takes a different approach. We will help you assemble the project team that would include the contractor. This can either be with a reputable contractor we negotiate a contract with or with a contractor we have completed several projects with who is a national contractor that specializes in a building animal facilities. This relationship has worked well because we're two completely different companies who have an expertise in the same field.

3. How do you work with long-distance clients?

Answer: With advances in technology, the concerns of long-distance projects have almost become obsolete. With scheduled site visits and meetings, our projects from California to New York have been successful.

4. How do I tell you what I want to in my hospital?

Answer: Our clients are presented with an in-depth 30-page questionnaire regarding just about every aspect of their projects. While extensive, this questionnaire has proven to save time because it obtains a good bit of information in the beginning of the process.

5. How do you charge for services?

Answer: Since each project is different, each proposal is different as well. Depending on the scope of the project, architectural fees can range from an hourly rate, to a fixed fee, to a certain dollar value per square foot. While many firms charged by a percentage of the construction cost, we changed our philosophy many years ago. Since veterinary buildings will cost more than the typical office building or doctor's office, we charge by a certain dollar value per square foot. This also gives you a better idea how much you'll owe for professional fees earlier in the design process.

6. I already have an architect. Is there a way I can take advantage of your expertise?

Answer: If you already have an architect selected for your project, we can be hired as a design consultant during the early phases of the projects to ensure your floor plan will be as efficient as possible. Other services as a consultant can be included if the owner desires.

1. Do you offer a design building option?

2. But what if I really like the idea of one-stop shopping?

3. How do you work with long-distance clients?

4. How do I tell you what I want to in my hospital?

5. How do you charge for services?

6. I already have an architect. Is there a way I can take advantage of your expertise?