Firm Profile

ABOUT THE FIRM
Specializing in Custom Residential Architecture since 1999, David Varnish Architects has the ability to both design and build your project. Based in New York City, with a satellite office in Bethlehem CT (Litchfield County), we pursue projects in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and beyond.

Our projects are as varied as our clients, from small home additions to urban condo interiors to large rural residences. We are always interested in new opportunities, and find satisfaction in solving architectural challenges both large and small.

ASSESSING YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS
Every project is unique, and we look forward to each new client.

As Principal of the Firm, David Varnish AIA will work with you directly to review your needs and wants, budget and schedule. These will be compiled into a program for your project, which will be the foundation of our design process.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSYS OF GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
Careful review of building codes, zoning and environmental regulations is essential to the success of any project. From setback and height restrictions to wetlands concerns, we research any regulations that may impact your project.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
More and more people are learning about green building, sustainable development and “not-so-big” design. While not experts, we are committed to pursuing our education in these matters, and we believe in providing our clients with intelligent and informed options regarding building size, systems specifications and materials options.

PRE-SCHEMATIC
DVA will take cues from the site, orientation to the sun, to views and to breezes. We will identify potential building sites and options for adding on that make sense with the physical context of the site along with zoning & wetland restrictions. With these regulations typically so stringent, careful review here is essential to the project’s success.

DVA looks to provide “value-added” services in terms of analyzing your existing structure, floor plans, etc, aiming to make the most out of what’s there and will advise you if a “tear-down” is more cost effective.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN
In this initial design phase, we develop rough concepts based on your program. Through sketches, models and computer renderings we explore each option. At multiple points throughout this phase, we will present our designs to you for feedback and refinement. These reviews can take place in our office, at your home or office, or via email and phone.

DESIGN
Once the program, site and budget are molded into a three-dimensional solution, the cost and budget become more important and pricing documents are created for preliminary estimates.

We are partners with a Construction Management / Builder Team, Domitek LLC, and will also gladly help you find other builders and will work with you to solicit and review bids prior to your final selection. The sooner we “partner” with a builder, the better in terms of cost and budget analysis. This “design-build” approach adds a guiding hand cost-wise through the process, which generally saves time and money in the long run.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Once a basic design concept has been agreed upon, it is further developed for pricing. We will review all aspects of the design with you, from kitchen and bath fixtures, materials, hardware, windows and lighting.

PERMIT AND CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
With a builder selected and the budget in line, we will continue to develop the permit and construction documents along with the necessary energy code analysis.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
Our involvement in your project continues during construction. We conduct multiple site visits to meet with the builder, review the work, approve payment requests, answer any concerns of the Building Inspector and keep you informed of the progress on a regular basis.

OUR COMMITMENT
When you select DVA as your Architect, you can expect personal service and our full commitment to your project’s success.

WORKING WITH DVA
The design process with DVA is collaborative within the Firm and very interactive with the Client.

DVA works in many towns in three to four states at any one time with a varied client profile. We are always interested in unique opportunities but also find satisfaction in solving the smallest of architectural challenges when it helps elevate someone’s use of the space and their outlook in life generally improves as well.

Although we have completed numerous additions and remodels, we think of each one as an opportunity and as unique. Our experiences certainly come in handy, but we continually explore new ideas. With a team of three to four professionals we will be responsive and sensitive to your questions and needs. We communicate effectively, keeping you continuously informed with sketches and updates.

Education

OUTLINE OF A TYPICAL PROJECT
Pre-Schematic Design
o Initial Consultation
o Programming
o Code & Zoning Analysis
o Site Analysis & Plan
o Measurements and As-Built Drawings (if an
Addition)

Design
o Schematic Design
o Plans
o Sections
o Elevations
o Models & Renderings
o Design Development for Pricing
o Dimensions
o Materials

Documentation
o Completion of Design Development
o Permit Documents
o Bidding Documents
o Construction Documents

Construction Administration
o Site Visits
o Contractor Coordination

Other Information

PARTNERSHIP
David partnered with Andris Abele to form the firm, Domitek, LLC. in the Spring of 2003. Approximately 25% of DVA's work is executed by Domitek under separate contract. Domitek builds and manages the construction of projects across the U.S. and in Canada. Andris brings 30 years of Design-Build experience to Domitek and is highly knowledgeable regarding new technologies, materials, products and heating/cooling systems. Once a schematic design is set, Domitek will provide a full pricing budget analysis for the client.

A second, joint-venture entity, The Carnoustie Group, LLC is being formed with longtime home builder Fred Gunther of Gunther Homes, Inc. Fred is based in Trumbull, CT and brings over 30 years of experience to this venture.

RECENT WORK
DVA has recently seen the completion of several single-family houses and lake cottages. Construction was completed in 2006 at 30 Bridge Street, a mixed-use commercial renovation and addition in New Milford, CT.

UPCOMING DEVELOPMENTS
DVA plans to continue designing innovative spec houses and looks forward to developing other mixed-use projects, multi-family housing and small commercial buildings. The firm is also becoming well-versed in the benefits of sustainable "green" design, with the Principal working to become LEED certified.

In terms of Design, Drafting and Documentation, DVA is in the process of migrating from AutoCAD to REVIT, which is a "Building Information Modeling" software program. David Varnish states, "We are excited about the benefits of this new platform." He continues, "The integration of all of the drawings along with built-in 3D views will be invaluable to us and our clients during the design process, while the Contractors will appreciate a higher level of detail."