1. Experience and Portfolio: Can you show me examples of your previous projects, especially those similar to mine? Of course, we will be more than pleased to show you our designed projects as well as some of our designed and built projects. You may check out our Portfolio and if there is something that catches your attention, let us know so we may schedule a visit. (Write to us, and we will send you our Portfolio )
2. Licensing and Certification: Are you a licensed architect in Costa Rica and a member of the CFIA (Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos)? I am a licenced architect in Costa Rica since 1996 without interruptions. Here is a certificate from CFIA showing my continuous practice through the years.
3. Local Knowledge: How familiar are you with local building codes, regulations, and environmental considerations? I am a local architect with more than 30 years of experience. I have been involved in several commissions designing Master Plans, Regulations, Zoning, etc. through all these years. I’m actually collaborating on a national commission working to improve sustainability practices through architecture and construction.
4. Sustainability Practices: What sustainable and eco-friendly practices do you incorporate into your designs? I am a LEED Green Associate, have taken Passiveaus courses and speak the sustainability language for quite a while now. As part of our sustainability practices, we promote the usage of local materials and systems, reusage of previously used materials, low energy demanding construction systems, landscaping with only native or endemic species, water reusage when possible, within other common sustainability practices. In respect to alternative energy sources, I have written an article about this subject.
5. Team and Collaboration: Who will be involved in my project, and what is their level of experience? For each project we put up the ideal professional team depending on the project´s needs. All our collaborators, both in office staff and subcontracts, are active members of CFIA with ample experience in their areas of expertise. We only work with proven experienced professionals in each one of their areas. You may check their level of expertise and webpages at the links on our Collaborators and Our Staff sections on our website, https://alterarq.com
6. Budget and Fees: What is your fee structure, and what costs are included or excluded? The CFIA regulates all our fees. You can find the minimum wage fees for architects in this link. For any further assistance or questions on this theme, please contact us directly at our CONTACT:
7. Timeline: What is the estimated timeline for my project from design to completion? We estimate design and permitting time frames very accurately, although sometimes during the process there are changes which may move our deadlines forwards in time. Now, for estimating construction time frames we are based on experience with the processes involved, but please take in account that Costa Rica is a Tropical Country, and we are exposed to a rough environment in which rainstorms and other natural events may change the time frames. For a very accurate time frame we will need to have the project ready, so the calculations are as accurate as possible. During the construction process we will keep an actualized project spreadsheet to meet deadlines. You will have access to this spreadsheet through our Client private section, through a personal client code.
8. Construction Involvement: How involved are you in the construction process? Do you offer project management services? We are always involved during the construction process it is the only way to assure our quality and the final product as close as possible to our original design. We are in constant communication with subcontractors and other designers involved, and as an office we visit the site at least once weekly through all the construction process. For the second question, yes, we offer project management services. For a list of all our services, please visit our SERVICES chapter at www.alterarq.com
9. Communication: How do you handle communication and updates throughout the project? We keep an up to date logbook of each project with a weekly update, with pictures of the site, and any changes we meet. We also open a chat room at our client´s section to keep them up to date on their project´s process.
Client References: Can you provide references from previous clients? We will be more than willing to provide you with a list of clients. For quick references, please see what our clients say about us at the References chapter in alterarq.com
1. Sustainability: Eco-friendly and sustainable building practices are highly valued. This includes the use of locally sourced materials, energy-efficient designs, solar energy systems, and water recycling systems2.
2. Biophilic Design: Integrating nature into the living environment is a significant trend. This involves large windows, indoor gardens, open-air living spaces, and the use of natural materials like wood and stone.
3. Luxury and Comfort: High-end finishes, modern amenities, and smart home technologies are essential. Investors look for properties that offer a luxurious lifestyle without compromising on environmental responsibility.
4. Natural Light and Ventilation: Maximizing natural light and ventilation is crucial. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reduces the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.
5. Open Designs: Smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces are highly desirable. This design element helps in optimizing energy use and creating a harmonious living environment.
6. Innovative Materials: The use of advanced, sustainable materials that ensure durability and reduce environmental impact is a priority.
These elements help create properties that are not only beautiful and functional but also aligned with the values of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
To incorporate these design elements into your project at ALTER Architecture, consider the following strategies:
Sustainability
1. Locally Sourced Materials: Use materials that are abundant in Costa Rica, like bamboo, teak, and stone, to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation.
2. Energy Efficiency: Integrate solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and smart HVAC systems to minimize energy consumption.
Biophilic Design
1. Indoor Gardens: Create small indoor gardens or green walls to bring nature indoors.
2. Natural Materials: Use wood, stone, and other natural materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Luxury and Comfort
1. Smart Home Technology: Incorporate smart home features like automated lighting, security systems, and climate control to enhance convenience.
2. High-End Finishes: Use luxurious materials like marble, granite, and high-quality wood for surfaces and fixtures.
Natural Light and Ventilation
1. Large Windows: Design large, strategically placed windows to maximize natural light and ventilation.
2. Open Floor Plans: Create open floor plans that allow for easy airflow and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
Open Designs
1. Outdoor Living Spaces: Design patios, decks, and balconies that blend seamlessly with indoor spaces.
2. Sliding Doors: Use sliding glass doors to connect indoor and outdoor areas effortlessly.
Innovative Materials
1. Advanced Insulation: Use state-of-the-art insulation materials to improve energy efficiency.
2. Durable Finishes: Choose materials that are resistant to the local climate, such as salt-resistant coatings for coastal projects.
By implementing these elements, you can create projects that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and functional.