ARCHITECTURAL SPECIFICATIONS
Our process at Tall Timber:
At TTCG, we simplify your involvement in the process of creating architectural specifications for your project. It all starts with an initial meeting to review concept/schematic drawings, scope of work, and alignment with your methodology.
As part of Design Development, we appreciate the opportunity to participate in team meetings for seamless specification coordination across all disciplines. We will actively review architectural drawings as you develop them to ensure the specifications align with your design intent. Our experience is that if we can provide early feedback on progress drawings, we are best able to work with you in addressing potential issues proactively.
Our work on the specifications continually evolves in parallel with your construction documents. At TTCG, we can send out early versions of the specification content for coordination and dovetailing specifications and drawings. Late in the design process, we will provide a draft Project Manual for your review & use to confirm consistency and accuracy of the design package.
Finally, we work closely with you to refine specifications, incorporate feedback and address late-stage project issues. Depending on our agreement, we will collect, coordinate and finalize a .PDF-formatted Project Manual.
Advantages that TTCG offers are variable options for specification delivery:
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Full specifications or Short Form specifications
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Sheet spec format or 8.5 x 11 format or combination of formats
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.PDF file formatting with option for .DOCX formatting
Choose TTCG for streamlining your design process. We are confident that the true value of precise specifications becomes apparent throughout the construction administration phase.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why should architectural firms consider hiring independent specification consultants?
Specification consultants bring expertise to enhance project documentation, ensuring compliance and efficiency for successful outcomes. At TTCG, we optimize your project documentation, enhancing coordination and reducing deliverable delays. By serving as a subconsultant, we help architects meet short-term back-to-back project deliverables without the need to hire additional employees. Our role is to streamline the process, allowing your firm to focus on design while we handle the technical details.
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Why are sealed and signed specifications excluded from TTCG's basic services?
TTCG serves architectural firms as a subcontractor and does not have a direct contractual relationship with your clients. However, if desired, TTCG can determine legal and liability considerations based on specific project and jurisdictional requirements as an optional additional service. This approach ensures flexibility and allows for tailored solutions based on project-specific needs.
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How do Specifiers - who work remotely - effectively perform Architectural Specifications?
Remote Specifiers, including those at TTCG, leverage cutting-edge software tools such as SpecLink, Revit (flythrough capabilities), Bluebeam, and Autodesk Construction Cloud to streamline the architectural specification process. These powerful tools enable them to efficiently manage specifications, ensuring precision and clarity in project documentation. Despite physical separation, remote Specifiers can seamlessly collaborate with architectural teams, contributing to successful project outcomes.
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What's the significance of Division 01 in specifications, and how does it protect architects' time and profits?
Division 01 plays a pivotal role in architectural specifications. It outlines crucial procedures and requirements that contractors must follow during the construction phase. By clearly defining processes related to submittals, requests for information, and other administrative aspects, Division 01 safeguards architects' time. This is achieved by providing a structured framework that minimizes ambiguities and facilitates efficient contractor submissions. At TTCG, we emphasize the importance of Division 01 in our services, ensuring that it protects architects' time and contributes to project profitability.
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Why does TTCG generally exclude Division 00 from their basic services?
TTCG generally excludes Division 00 because it primarily deals with procurement, contracting, and administrative aspects, often managed by the owner and their legal counsel. TTCG focuses on technical specifications in Division 01 and beyond, directly impacting project design and execution. However, negotiable services may include Division 00 elements if needed.
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Why does TTCG generally exclude certain specifications like door hardware, access control, or audio/visual specialties from their typical services?
TTCG, like many independent specifiers, typically exclude specific Sections - such as door hardware, access control, and audio/visual specialties - from their standard services. The specific exclusions can vary, but they often focus on specialized areas that require direct collaboration between the primary architect, technical experts, and the Owner. This approach allows us, alongside your coordination, to deliver a combined Project Manual which is tailored to your project's unique needs.
