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our design Services

How We Help Our Clients

Designers are integral to each step in the real estate development process and the services we offer vary widely depending on each client, project, and budget.

Here’s a listing of the most common services we provide to our clients.

get a detailed quote for your project

The 4 Distinct Phases of the Process

Feasibility  –  Design  –  Construction    Turn-Key

phase 1 – we help you plan it

Feasibility Studies

We compare multiple locations by analyzing parcel size, geometry, zoning requirements, available utilities, local demographics, and project complexity.  We share our childcare business income data with you, and check codes, kid-counts, and playground areas to help you verify that you are selecting a financially viable location.

Business Income Reports

How much money do the Childcare Centers you’ll be competing against gross on an annual basis?

We have accrued business gross income reports for each state of the United States from a highly reputable source (a national credit reporting service).  This data is very helpful in planning your future business income when compared to existing childcare centers within your area.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com with a list of 5 businesses you would like included in your report.

Each report includes 5 competing businesses of your choosing.  The cost for each report is $200.

Property Search Checklist

How do you compare multiple properties you are considering?

We have a Property Search Checklist that takes you through the process of evaluating multiple properties.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Existing Conditions Report

How do you know what condition the property is in and what needs to be fixed?

When you walk through an existing building with your real estate broker, can you really tell all of the items that will need to be fixed to bring the building up to code?

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to schedule one of our architects to visit the location and prepare a full analysis of the existing conditions.

Multiple Site Comparisons

Get an experienced and unbiased second opinion about which property location may or may not be better for your business.

Sometimes there’s more than one site you are considering.  Which location has the most traffic, is the closest to your ideal customers, will be most conducive to your business, least amount of remodel costs, quickest through zoning, and easiest to permit?  We’ll compare multiple locations, zoning requirements, available utility connections, local demographics, parcel size, and design and construction complexity.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Multiple Site Comparison analysis.

Code Compliance Check

You’re about to sign on the dotted line, but wait!  Do you know if this building is up to code?

Don’t get caught up in the excitement of signing the dotted line and planning to move in.  Even if you are leasing or buying a building that was originally designed for the same use as you plan to use it for, for example, a daycare to a daycare, or a restaurant to a restaurant, there could still be code issues that will need to be addressed and remediated before the Fire Marshal will allow you a certificate of occupancy.

Have our architect’s perform a Code Compliance Check to verify any outdated building elements that do not meet current building and fire codes.  Then use this information for negotiating leverage with the seller or landlord.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Code Compliance Check, it will pay for itself in the long run.

Kid-Count Plan Check

How many children can this building support in enrollments?

(Hint!  It’s not 35 per s.f.)

Your entire business plan depends on how many children your business location can support in enrollments.  A simple search online and at your state childcare licensing agency says that it’s 35 square feet per child, but that’s not entirely correct!  The 35 s.f. per child is in reference to the interior classroom floor area that is available for children to use and play in.  It does not include the hallways, restrooms, offices, kitchen, and building structure itself.

We’ve developed a quick and easy way to calculate how many children your new location will be able to accomodate.  This is a very effective way to vet an existing building without having the cost of a full Concept Floor Plan created.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Kid-Count Plan Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Playground Area Check

Is there a big enough area outside this building to carve out the right sized playgrounds I’ll need?

Now that you know how many children the building can likely support, you need to make sure that there’s enough room for the right sized playgrounds.

We’ve developed a 3-step process that clarifies what areas can be used for playgrounds and how large the areas are.  This gives you peace of mind knowing that playgrounds won’t cause a major roadblock later in the development process.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Playground Area Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Soils Testing & Surveys

Is the soil on this property of sound bearing for a new building structure or is it full of underground bedrock?  The Property Plat may show you how large of a tract of land you are considering, but how big are the setbacks, and are there any utility easements?

We have soils testing engineers and surveyors throughout the country that we partner with on a regular basis.  We know what to request from them to make getting your answers in the most cost effective way.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Soils Test or Survey for your new property.  The cost varies based on property size and location within the country.

phase 2 – we help you design it

Building Design

We marry your business operations program, the size needed, and style preferences with regional materials and local community characteristics to create a building that is unique to your location and your brand.  We can help you articulate what you want your next building location to look like and complete an exterior facade design for you.

Site & Playground Plans

How much money do Childcare Centers in your state make?

We have accrued childcare gross income reports for each state of the United States from a highly reputable source (a national credit reporting service).  This data is very helpful in planning your future business income when compared to existing childcare centers within your state.

Playground Plans – Code and accessibility requirements, equipment, shading, fall zone surfacing, fencing, and splash pads.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Building Floor Plans

How do you compare multiple properties you are considering?

Building size, style, materials, brand continuity, state code and federal accessibility compliance.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

ARCHITECTS INVENTED INFOGRAPHICS

As modern consumers and web-savvy researchers, we have all run across those cute graphic images that illustrate and explain relationships, organizations, and processes. We know them as infographics.  Infographics have been used by design professionals since the beginning of architecture. Only we call them bubble diagrams, functional matrix charts, and parti diagrams.  These items are just different kinds of infographics that help us quantify what our clients need and want, and how all of the spaces relate to each other and the environment around them.

A simple diagram to help bring sense and order to a building program.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

DIAGRAMS ARE CUTE, BUT WHERE’S THE FRONT DOOR?

Where infographics drop off is where design development begins. Now that we’ve confirmed what we need and want and how it all works together, we can arrange it all into a practical and usable plan. We begin considering major entrance and exit elements, fire egress, accessibility, and room sizes.  Now the plan begins to take shape. This is when clients get most excited. When the idea of a building actually becomes a tangible plan with rooms, windows, doors, and volumes of light and space. It is much easier to imagine the spaces once they are drawn out as spaces.

Constant interaction with clients is key during this phase of design. Having the client as an integral part of the team allows the opportunity to test and re-prioritize configurations openly as a cohesive group working for the common good of the project.

Building Design – Building size, style, materials, brand continuity, state code, and federal accessibility compliance.

Licensing – Research each state and national organization’s licensing requirements.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Building Materials Selections

How do you know what condition the property is in and what needs to be fixed?

When you walk through an existing building with your real estate broker, can you really tell all of the items that will need to be fixed to bring the building up to code?

Material Cost comparisons

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to schedule one of our architects to visit the location and prepare a full analysis of the existing conditions.

Exterior Facade Design

What makes a visually appealling building facade design?

When designing a cool-looking facade, think about factors like proportions, color schemes, textures, and architectural features. You want it to catch people’s eyes and make a positive impression, so pay attention to the overall aesthetics and how it fits with the surrounding environment.

How do I include my business branding into the look of my building design?

To include your brand’s identity into the exterior design, consider using your company’s colors, logos, or unique architectural elements that reflect your brand’s personality. You want people to instantly recognize your business when they see the building and associate it with your brand.

What building materials should I use for my commercial building design?

Popular materials for commercial building facades include glass, metal panels, concrete, brick, and stone. Each material has its own aesthetic appeal and can be chosen based on factors like durability, maintenance requirements, and the desired style of your building.

How can I make my commercial building stand out in a competitive market?

To make your building stand out, consider unique architectural shapes, creative use of materials, captivating lighting, or incorporating green spaces. It’s all about making a bold statement that differentiates your building from the rest.

Are there architectural styles that are more popular for buildings in a specific region or in a specific industry?

There are popular architectural styles for commercial buildings vary depending on the region and industry.

In urban areas, modern and contemporary styles with sleek lines and glass facades often dominate. Traditional styles like neoclassical or colonial may be preferred in more conservative industries or areas with historical significance. It’s essential to consider the local context and industry norms when selecting an architectural style.

Zoning Submittals

You’re about to sign on the dotted line, but wait!  Do you know if this building is up to code?

Don’t get caught up in the excitement of signing the dotted line and planning to move in.  Even if you are leasing or buying a building that was originally designed for the same use as you plan to use it for, for example, a daycare to a daycare, or a restaurant to a restaurant, there could still be code issues that will need to be addressed and remediated before the Fire Marshal will allow you a certificate of occupancy.

Have our architect’s perform a Code Compliance Check to verify any outdated building elements that do not meet current building and fire codes.  Then use this information for negotiating leverage with the seller or landlord.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Code Compliance Check, it will pay for itself in the long run.

2D & 3D Renderings

How many children can this building support in enrollments?  (It’s not 35 per s.f.)

Your entire business plan depends on how many children your business location can support in enrollments.  A simple search online and at your state childcare licensing agency says that it’s 35 square feet per child, but that’s not entirely correct!  The 35 s.f. per child is in reference to the interior classroom floor area that is available for children to use and play in.  It does not include the hallways, restrooms, offices, kitchen, and building structure itself.

We’ve developed a quick and easy way to calculate how many children your new location will be able to accomodate.  This is a very effective way to vet an existing building without having the cost of a full Concept Floor Plan created.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Kid-Count Plan Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Interior Design

Is there a big enough area outside this building to carve out the right sized playgrounds I’ll need?

Now that you know how many children the building can likely support, you need to make sure that there’s enough room for the right sized playgrounds.

We’ve developed a 3-step process that clarifies what areas can be used for playgrounds and how large the areas are.  This gives you peace of mind knowing that playgrounds won’t cause a major roadblock later in the development process.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Playground Area Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Construction Drawings

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

THE ART OF CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION
Sounds counter-intuitive, doesn’t it? Art and Construction Documents in the same sentence. But there is an art to it. It must be organized in a way that makes sense and is readable. It must be thorough and well coordinated with engineering. It must completely describe all work to be done.  Many permit comments are clarifications for information that could not be easily located within the drawings. And pricing, whether negotiated or bid, will be incorrect if the scope of work has not been clearly and completely described within the documents.

Having a solid set of Construction Documents is labor intensive at a time when most clients are chomping at the bit to get construction started. Taking the time to document the work properly now will save everyone time in the long run. And when you save time, you save money.

For a handful of examples of our previous work, check out ourPortfolio

Construction documents and specifications, permitting, and construction administration.

phase 3 – we help you build it

Construction Management

We manage the bidding process, and attend weekly conference calls, and monthly site visits.  We track the schedule and costs to make sure you get treated fairly and open on time.  We verify correct loan draw amounts with you and your lender to stay on track.

Permit Submittals

How much money do Childcare Centers in your state make?

We have accrued childcare gross income reports for each state of the United States from a highly reputable source (a national credit reporting service).  This data is very helpful in planning your future business income when compared to existing childcare centers within your state.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Construction Cost Data

How do you compare multiple properties you are considering?

Building size, style, materials, brand continuity, state code and federal accessibility compliance.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Bidding & Negotiating

How do you know what condition the property is in and what needs to be fixed?

When you walk through an existing building with your real estate broker, can you really tell all of the items that will need to be fixed to bring the building up to code?

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to schedule one of our architects to visit the location and prepare a full analysis of the existing conditions.

Value Engineering

Get an experienced and unbiased second opinion about which property location may or may not be better for your business.

Sometimes there’s more than one site you are considering.  Which location has the most traffic, is the closest to your ideal customers, will be most conducive to your business, least amount of remodel costs, quickest through zoning, and easiest to permit?  We’ll compare multiple locations, zoning requirements, available utility connections, local demographics, parcel size, and design and construction complexity.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Multiple Site Comparison analysis.

Construction Scheduling

You’re about to sign on the dotted line, but wait!  Do you know if this building is up to code?

Don’t get caught up in the excitement of signing the dotted line and planning to move in.  Even if you are leasing or buying a building that was originally designed for the same use as you plan to use it for, for example, a daycare to a daycare, or a restaurant to a restaurant, there could still be code issues that will need to be addressed and remediated before the Fire Marshal will allow you a certificate of occupancy.

Have our architect’s perform a Code Compliance Check to verify any outdated building elements that do not meet current building and fire codes.  Then use this information for negotiating leverage with the seller or landlord.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Code Compliance Check, it will pay for itself in the long run.

Contractor Selection

How many children can this building support in enrollments?  (It’s not 35 per s.f.)

Your entire business plan depends on how many children your business location can support in enrollments.  A simple search online and at your state childcare licensing agency says that it’s 35 square feet per child, but that’s not entirely correct!  The 35 s.f. per child is in reference to the interior classroom floor area that is available for children to use and play in.  It does not include the hallways, restrooms, offices, kitchen, and building structure itself.

We’ve developed a quick and easy way to calculate how many children your new location will be able to accomodate.  This is a very effective way to vet an existing building without having the cost of a full Concept Floor Plan created.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Kid-Count Plan Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Construction & Cost Administration

Is there a big enough area outside this building to carve out the right sized playgrounds I’ll need?

Now that you know how many children the building can likely support, you need to make sure that there’s enough room for the right sized playgrounds.

We’ve developed a 3-step process that clarifies what areas can be used for playgrounds and how large the areas are.  This gives you peace of mind knowing that playgrounds won’t cause a major roadblock later in the development process.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Playground Area Check.  The cost is only $500 per location.

Warranty Management

Is the soil on this property of sound bearing for a new building structure or is it full of underground bedrock?  The Property Plat may show you how large of a tract of land you are considering, but how big are the setbacks, and are there any utility easements?

We have soils testing engineers and surveyors throughout the country that we partner with on a regular basis.  We know what to request from them to make getting your answers in the most cost effective way.

Construction warranty limits, equipment warranty, routine maintenance, and cleaning requirements.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Soils Test or Survey for your new property.  The cost varies based on property size and location within the country.

phase 4 – we help you manage it

Turn-Key Services

We walk with you every step of the way through design and construction as your advocate.  We organize your vendors, service providers, and utility connections to make the move-in process smooth.  We can even order the furniture, arrange deliveries, and establish your business online to get you up and running.

Utility Accounts

How much money do Childcare Centers in your state make?

We have accrued childcare gross income reports for each state of the United States from a highly reputable source (a national credit reporting service).  This data is very helpful in planning your future business income when compared to existing childcare centers within your state.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Specialty Vendors

How do you compare multiple properties you are considering?

Building size, style, materials, brand continuity, state code and federal accessibility compliance.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com for a copy of the state you are interested in and she will send you a pdf.

Maintenance Vendors

How do you know what condition the property is in and what needs to be fixed?

When you walk through an existing building with your real estate broker, can you really tell all of the items that will need to be fixed to bring the building up to code?

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to schedule one of our architects to visit the location and prepare a full analysis of the existing conditions.

Furniture Ordering

Get an experienced and unbiased second opinion about which property location may or may not be better for your business.

Sometimes there’s more than one site you are considering.  Which location has the most traffic, is the closest to your ideal customers, will be most conducive to your business, least amount of remodel costs, quickest through zoning, and easiest to permit?  We’ll compare multiple locations, zoning requirements, available utility connections, local demographics, parcel size, and design and construction complexity.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Multiple Site Comparison analysis.

Furniture Delivery & Storage

You’re about to sign on the dotted line, but wait!  Do you know if this building is up to code?

Don’t get caught up in the excitement of signing the dotted line and planning to move in.  Even if you are leasing or buying a building that was originally designed for the same use as you plan to use it for, for example, a daycare to a daycare, or a restaurant to a restaurant, there could still be code issues that will need to be addressed and remediated before the Fire Marshal will allow you a certificate of occupancy.

Have our architect’s perform a Code Compliance Check to verify any outdated building elements that do not meet current building and fire codes.  Then use this information for negotiating leverage with the seller or landlord.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a Code Compliance Check, it will pay for itself in the long run.

Furniture Assembly Vendors

What is a Furniture Assembly Vendor, and do I need one?

A furniture assembly vendor, also known as a furniture assembly service provider or furniture installer, is a professional or a company specializing in assembling furniture for residential or commercial clients. They offer their expertise and services to help individuals or businesses with the assembly, disassembly, and installation of furniture items.

Furniture assembly vendors typically have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience to efficiently and safely assemble a wide range of furniture pieces. This can include items such as desks, chairs, tables, cabinets, shelving units, bed frames, and more. They may also offer additional services like disassembling furniture for moving, packing materials, and transportation.

When hired, furniture assembly vendors can save time and effort for individuals or businesses who may not have the expertise, tools, or time to handle furniture assembly on their own. They can ensure that furniture is assembled correctly, minimizing the risk of damage or improper installation.

Furniture assembly vendors may operate as independent contractors or as part of moving companies or specialized service providers. It’s important to choose a reputable and reliable vendor with experience in commercial furniture assembly if you require assistance with moving your business location.

How do I hire furniture assembly vendors to help me move my business location?

When hiring furniture assembly vendors to assist with moving your business location, consider the following steps:

Determine your needs: Assess the scope of the furniture assembly work required. Make a list of the furniture items that need to be disassembled, moved, and reassembled at the new location. Consider any specific requirements or time constraints you may have.

Research and gather options: Look for furniture assembly vendors or moving companies that offer furniture assembly services. Seek recommendations from colleagues, friends, or other business owners who have recently relocated. Additionally, utilize online directories, search engines, or local business listings to find relevant service providers.

Check credentials and reputation: Once you have a list of potential vendors, research their credentials and reputation. Check if they are licensed, insured, and have experience in handling commercial moves. Look for reviews, testimonials, or feedback from previous clients to gauge their reliability and professionalism.

Request quotes: Contact the selected vendors and request detailed quotes for the furniture assembly services. Provide them with accurate information about the number and type of furniture items, the locations involved, and any other relevant details. Ask for a breakdown of the costs, including any additional charges for packing materials, transportation, or special requirements.

Evaluate pricing and services: Compare the quotes received, taking into account both the price and the services offered. Consider factors such as their availability, the estimated time for completion, and any guarantees or warranties provided. Ensure the vendor offers the specific services you require, including disassembly, packing, moving, and reassembly.

Arrange site visits, if necessary: If you have unique or complex furniture assembly needs, you may want to schedule site visits with the shortlisted vendors. This will allow them to assess the scope of work more accurately and provide you with a more precise quote.

Review the contract: Once you have selected a vendor, carefully review their contract or agreement. Pay attention to terms and conditions, cancellation policies, liability coverage, and any other relevant clauses. Seek clarification for any uncertainties or concerns before signing the contract.

Coordinate logistics and scheduling: Communicate with the vendor to finalize the moving schedule. Provide them with the move-out and move-in dates and any specific time restrictions or access requirements at both locations. Ensure they have the necessary information to plan the logistics effectively.

Confirm insurance coverage: Verify that the vendor has appropriate insurance coverage for any damages that may occur during the furniture assembly and moving process. Request a copy of their insurance certificate for your records.

Communicate and coordinate: Maintain open lines of communication with the furniture assembly vendor leading up to the moving day. Provide any updates or changes to the furniture inventory or logistics. Confirm all arrangements a few days before the move to ensure everyone is on the same page.

By following these steps, you can streamline the process of hiring furniture assembly vendors and ensure a smooth transition during your business relocation.  If this process seems overwhelming because you just don’t have enough hours in the day to take care of every little detail, contact us at Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a quote for our Move-In Package.  We can help you organize what you need assembled, who to hire to assemble it, and get it assembled before your business open date.

Moving In

How do you time the move-in process so that your furniture is delivered at just the right time?

Timing the move-in process to ensure your furniture is delivered at the right time can be a strategic and organized approach. Here are some steps you can follow to help coordinate the process effectively:

Set a move-in date: Determine the exact date you will be moving into your new place. Consider factors like lease agreements, availability of the new property, and your own schedule.

Plan ahead: Once you have the move-in date, start planning ahead. Research and choose a furniture store or retailer from which you want to purchase your furniture. Consider their delivery policies, lead times, and availability of the items you need.

Contact the furniture retailer: Reach out to the furniture retailer well in advance, ideally a few weeks before your move-in date. Inquire about their delivery options, estimated delivery times, and any specific requirements they might have. Provide them with your move-in date and address.

Check delivery schedules: Discuss the delivery schedules with the furniture retailer. Some stores may have fixed delivery days or specific time slots. Ensure that the delivery date aligns with your move-in date and that the delivery time suits your availability.

Confirm the delivery date and time: Once you have agreed upon a delivery date and time with the furniture retailer, make sure to get it confirmed in writing. This helps avoid any misunderstandings or last-minute changes.

Coordinate with your moving company: If you are hiring a moving company to assist with your move, inform them of the scheduled furniture delivery. Coordinate with them to ensure they can accommodate the furniture’s arrival and properly unload it at your new place.

Keep communication open: Maintain regular communication with the furniture retailer and the moving company as the move-in date approaches. Confirm the delivery arrangements a few days before the scheduled date to ensure everything is on track.

Be flexible: Despite careful planning, unforeseen circumstances can sometimes arise. Be prepared for the possibility of slight delays or changes in the delivery schedule. Stay in contact with the furniture retailer and be open to adjusting the plans if necessary.

By following these steps and maintaining good communication, you can increase the chances of your furniture being delivered at just the right time for your move-in process.

If this process seems overwhelming because you just don’t have enough hours in the day to take care of every little detail, contact us at Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request a quote for our Move-In Package.  We can help you organize what you need to order, who you need to order it from, and when it needs to be delivered.

Establish On-Line Presence

How do I get my business listed and found on Google?

How do I build a website for my business?

What needs to be on my website and how to I optimize it for SEO?

Should I use social media, and if so, which ones are best for childcare?

What content should I put on my website and social media accounts?

Our services cover various aspects of establishing an online presence; including website development, SEO, social media, content creation, and online advertising.  We sift through the thousands of ways to accomplish these items and narrow it down to the most valuable items needed to market a childcare center online.

Please email Rebecca@CalbertDesign.com to request help with building your childcare center’s online presence so that you can be found at the right places and grow your business.

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Kennesaw, GA 30144

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404-689-5001
rebecca@calbertdesign.com