Because fabrication constraints are real and they cost money when discovered late. A detail that looks elegant on a rendering may require a weld joint that will be visible in the finished piece, or a connection that conflicts with an existing structural element. Discovering these issues during conceptual design costs nothing. Discovering them after construction documents are complete means redesign fees, schedule delays, and a contractor who is now bidding a fixed design they had no input on. Early engagement is how you get a better project at a lower total cost.

A conceptual consultation includes a review of your preliminary drawings or design intent, a fabrication feasibility assessment, identification of any details that will be difficult or expensive to build, rough cost ranges for budgeting purposes, and recommendations for materials and finishes that fit the design direction. For complex projects, we may produce preliminary sketches or 3D models to illustrate fabrication approaches. The output is a clearer picture of what the metalwork will cost and how it will be built before any commitments are made.

Schematic design is an architectural phase that establishes the overall design direction, spatial relationships, and general character of a project. Conceptual design, as we use the term, refers specifically to the early-stage development of the metalwork within that broader project. We review the architectural schematic drawings and develop the metalwork concept in parallel. The two processes inform each other. Our input on fabrication feasibility can influence the architectural schematic, and the architectural direction shapes how we develop the metalwork concept.

For straightforward projects, the initial consultation is included in the project scope. For complex projects requiring significant design development, we discuss the scope of the conceptual engagement and any associated fees upfront. We are transparent about what is included in the consultation and what would require a separate agreement. We do not bill for a first conversation.

Yes. We work with architects and designers on Utah projects regardless of where they are based. We can conduct design consultations remotely via video call and coordinate through your project management system. We do require a site visit before finalizing shop drawings to take field measurements. Remote collaboration works well at the conceptual stage. Field verification is required before fabrication.

Delegated design is a process where the engineer of record delegates the structural design of a specific component to the fabricator or a specialty engineer. It is common for architectural metal components like glass railing systems, cantilevered stairs, and custom structural connections where the fabricator has more specific knowledge of the component than the EOR. When delegated design applies, we coordinate with a specialty engineer to produce stamped connection designs that are then incorporated into the project's structural documentation.

A structural weld is a full-penetration or fillet weld designed to carry load and meet a specific weld size and length requirement per the engineering drawings. A tack weld is a small, temporary weld used to hold components in position during assembly before final welding. Tack welds are not structural and are typically consumed by the final weld pass. On structural projects, tack welds must be placed by qualified welders and must meet the same quality requirements as the final weld.