EXPERIENCE
Rushton-Chartock Architects was established in 1976. We are located in our own office building at 1620 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Fairfax. We have designed over 800 projects in Northern California with the majority of our work concentrated on residential, and particularly remodeling. Because of our long history in Marin County, we are very experienced with local public agency approvals.

DESIGN EXCELLENCE
Take a look at our portfolio. Each project takes on a character of its own, based on the client's needs and desires, the architectural precedence, and cost constraints. We listen carefully to our clients and work closely with them to develop concepts which not only satisfy needs, but are delightful to live in. Inspiring architecture is not necessarily flashy or eye-catching. It can be subdued and comfortable. Inspiring architecture satisfies everyday needs and feelings and is lasting and satisfying over the long term. We take great pride in our work, we do whatever it takes to be certain the solution is well thought out, and we have the patience and follow-through to be certain your project is properly executed.

TECHNOLOGY
Computer use should be "old hat" in our profession by now. Unfortunately not all firms offer their clients the efficiency and flexibility offered by CAD programs and spread sheet estimating. We use computers for the entire design process, from schematics through working drawings and specifications. Change is no longer a bad word, since revisions can be handled quickly. The project can be "fine-tuned" right up to construction.

COST CONTROL
Rushton-Chartock is accustomed to working with a wide range of budget limitations, from inexpensive remodels to elaborate custom homes. Each project receives the same care when analyzing budget and providing careful estimates which help keep all of our projects feasible, realistic and therefore buildable. Our cost estimating program is based on a database of real project costs which we have bid out over the last 10 years. We not only look at the construction cost, but all costs, including fees, permits and financing. We feel that our cost control is one of our most important strengths, and it can prove its value to your project as much as the excellent design.

BASIC SERVICES
A full service from your Architect involves five phases:

The Program Phase: We will work with you to determine the project requirements and study the project feasibility. We will explore the variables and probable costs, and even look at the return on investment.

The Design Phase: If your project is a remodel, we will measure and photograph the existing conditions and provide existing condition drawings as required. We will develop alternative schematic plans with related construction costs for each. Over the course of several design meetings, we will work with you to develop the final design and provide design drawings as necessary so that the solution is clearly communicated.

Construction Documents Phase: Based on the approved preliminary design, we will prepare the Working Drawings and complete Specifications which set forth in detail the requirements for the construction of the Project. We will assist you in filing the documents required to obtain a building permit.

Bidding Phase: We will help you in the selection of a General Contractor by assisting in obtaining bids or in negotiating a contract for the construction of the Project. We have a long-standing working relationship with many Marin County contractors, each being known for quality-consciousness as well as competitive pricing. We will recommend the top of the list for your consideration.

Construction Phase: During construction we will make periodic site visits to determine in general if the work is being performed in accordance with the Contract Documents. On the basis of these observations, we will keep you informed of the progress and quality of work and shall endeavor to guard against defects and deficiencies. We will administer periodic progress payments made by the client to the General Contractor. Certification of these payments shall be based on observations of the work in progress and evaluations of the contractor's applications for payment. Payments so certified are based on the percentage of the work satisfactorily competed in order to protect the Owner from overpayment. We are there to protect your interests.

REFERENCES
Available upon request.