These days everyone wants to know how businesses are doing especially in architecture and construction. To date our business in 2009 is progressing, though the number of new projects is somewhat less than it has been for the last ten years. We are confident that things will move along, albeit at a slower pace. We thought you would like to get a glimpse of what's new and on the boards at Austin Patterson Disston.

CLIENT SERVICES

TOWARD PURCHASING PROPERTY 

In the last few months we've worked with a number of clients and their realtors to assess properties, work up zoning studies and budgets as well as produce sketches of proposed work.  This process aids a buyer in understanding the potential of how a property can meet their needs. Our clients have purchased properties and are pleased with the ability to negotiate a decreased price that the current market can bring.

Clients are equally pleased with current construction prices, down 15% - 25% from six months ago. "This decrease," explains partner Mac Patterson, AIA, "reflects changes in labor costs. Even the very best and our favorite construction teams are anxious for projects." Now is a good time to build. Not only will the project be less expensive, but it will be completed in a shorter time as members of all the various trades are more immediately available.

"We've always maintained that our projects meet many of the goals for sustainable design by the fact that they are so carefully and well built," notes partner Stuart Disston, AIA. Proper insulation, high grade windows and doors assure a tight envelope. Many of our recent and current projects use renewable energy technologies of geothermal, wind and solar, green roofs for insulation and water efficiency, underground water storage systems for rain water conservation, sustainable and recycled products, and the important reduction of construction and demolition waste. The end result is an increase in the structure's long-term economic performance and a more satisfying livable environment."