The Small Group strongly believes in allowing our clients to become a member of the design team, incorporating their needs into the design solution. This approach develops a philosophy of "shared equity" in the development and success of each project. It is also responsible for the unique solution to each individual project, driven by the clients' needs, desires, and personality.

Programming and Schematic Design "Charrettes"

The "charrette" process provides a venue for including the client and users in the initial programming development and schematic design phases. These on-site meetings afford the opportunity to acquire first-hand information critical to the development of the design concept. The result of this meeting is a document all project shareholders can adopt as the framework from which the development of the design can begin.

Project-Specific Website

A project website can be available to all those involved in the design process, including those authorized by the client. This technology provides a project storehouse for basic documentation records, drawings, sketches, digital photographs, and other pertinent information. The site is accessible to any authorized visitor at any time through the Gateway at ftp.thesmallgroup.net.

Professional Resources

Our team of consultants further strengthens the design team by contributing a vast resource of experience and expertise through their respective engineering disciplines. We will provide supplemental engineering and design services to address the building site, landscaping, irrigation, building structure, mechanical & electrical systems, data & communication systems, and any other specific needs driven by project requirements. Our design team ensures that you will receive a design that is not only appropriate, but also functional, economical, and responsive to your program and schedule.

CADD and Computer Capabilities

The Small Group operates the latest version of AutoCAD Architecture (r. 2011) and is able to provide ".dwg" files in virtually any version. Using this software as our platform, we are able to provide architectural renderings, models and animation video with other third-party software. In addition, email and our website are normal methods of communication, inluding the project-specific websites (referenced above). Automatic daily off-site backups of our server provide insurance that electronic files are protected in the event of computer failure or natural disaster.

A Word about Sustainability

The predominant trend in the design community continues to emphasize the attributes of sustainability and the responsible use of materials in order to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. While many offices have recently adopted these beneficial goals into their practice philosophies, The Small Group has continuously applied the principals of “green design” to all of our projects since our inception. In other words, we were "green" before "green" was cool…