OFFICE FAQs

  • Important factors to keep in mind include the size of your project, special features your space might have and the condition of the building (for renovations) and/or building site. The more complex a project is, the more team members needed to execute it. Typically we charge a standard hourly rate during the Pre-Design Phase, develop a fixed fee for the design and documentation phases and then provide construction administration on an hourly basis. AERO uses the standard AIA contract to govern our projects.

  • For best results, bring an architect in before you commit to a site. We suggest starting with a Pre-design Phase during your site due diligence. As part of the pre-design we’ll conduct a zoning and code analysis, confirm parking needs to support your use, help you figure out energy needs and help you determine if your space needs an ADA accessibility review.

  • Every site and municipality is unique. After an initial consultation with our team, the overall timeline will become clearer. You can book a consultation here.

  • There are a lot of factors to consider. Once we better understand your project we can share historical cost information with you based on the numerous office projects we have completed.

  • In addition to the projects highlighted on our website, AERO has completed a wide variety of office projects from small law firms to free flowing creative environments. We work with all types of businesses to help each showcase their brands through design.

  • Because we are a small firm our Principals are extensively involved in every project we do. That means you benefit from decades of experience and expertise in exactly the types of challenges you are trying to solve. We understand what types of spaces and amenities your staff and clients are looking for.

  • As proud members of the Inglewood community, we are committed to improving the quality of design and planning in the area. Our involvement with civic engagement (AERO Partner, Brion, serves on the Inglewood Chamber of Commerce Board), volunteer organizations, and local community groups, helps us better serve our clients by understanding nuanced priorities in the Inglewood area. We also have strong relationships with individuals in city planning and the building department, helping to navigate the approval process with ease. Check out some of our Inglewood projects. 

  • We like to think about projects in six phases, each with a unique goal: 

    Pre-design - we help you determine if the space you are considering can support your needs and work with your budget. We help with due diligence and develop test-fit diagrams to see how your space needs can be accommodated within the building footprint.

    Schematic design - once you pick a space, we start working on translating your brand into physical space.

    Design development - we collaborate with the project engineers and other expert consultants to design the systems and structure and further refine the design of the space.  

    Construction documents - once you sign off on the design, our team will begin producing the technical drawings needed to get the space built and submitted to the city for building permits. 

    Bidding - during this phase, we support you in selecting a contractor to build your space. 

    Construction administration - this is where your project becomes a reality. We support the owner and general contractor during the construction process as a resource to ensure the project is executed as designed. 

    Every project takes its own path through these six phases. Our job is to guide you through them and help get decisions made. 

  • Every project needs a different team structure. AERO provides full architecture and interior design services. In addition to us on your team, typical consultants include: 

    • Owner’s Representative / Project Manager

    • Mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineer

    • Structural engineer

    • Landscape architect

    • Civil engineer 

    • Lighting designer

    • Acoustical engineer 

    • Certified Access Specialist (CASp)

    • Exterior building Maintenance consultant (EBM)

    • Fire sprinkler engineer

    • Audiovisual consultant 

    • Security Consultant 

    Once we better understand your goals and project needs, we can help you craft your team. 

  • An Owner’s Representative represents your interests in the project and ensures the entire project team is held accountable to deadlines and deliverables. They help projects run smoothly and provide their expertise on any issues that may arise during the design and construction process.

    1. Have a budget in mind before you start your project, AERO can help you develop it.

    2. Have a schedule in mind so that the team understands the pace of work that needs to be accomplished. 

    3. Bring in your architect early to help perform due diligence on a space before you commit to leasing or purchasing the space. 

  • We answer that question by talking to staff and gaining an understanding of what their day-to-day jobs entail. When we better understand how you work, we can better design a space that supports the flow of activity. 

  • We haven’t yet met a business for which we can’t design an amazing custom, high-impact space. We approach each project and project type as a unique process. Some things apply to all office projects - people are people - while others are customized. Some examples of unique design aspects include an attorney’s office needing acoustic separation of all private offices, an event space and car showroom needing space to park and show off cars inside, and a creative agency needing spaces that foster brainstorming and encourage idea sharing.