Every architecture firm operates, whether articulated or not, with an overarching approach to their work. At CMBA, we’ve specified and developed ours, over many years, and we call it Upward Thinking. This philosophy or way of thinking encapsulates a people-first view of architecture and design, and guides everything we do at CMBA.
So what is Upward Thinking exactly? It begins with you and your vision. It’s important that we understand where you’re coming from, and that your project needs multiple different perspectives. We’ll work to create a clear and precise vision of your project, inside and out. This foundation is then built upon with innovative ideas and forward-thinking solutions.
It Always Starts with Listening
It is vitally important to our approach that we take the time to listen well. When a project doesn’t start with listening, it’s far too easy to bring your own preconceived notions about what a project should be like, without ever really understanding it from the client’s perspective.
That’s why we’ll ask you questions and actually listen to your answers. We want to understand you, your vision, and its purpose. We’ll learn all we can about you and your business, starting with basic needs and desires then working our way up to your big dreams and lofty goals. This is also the time when we’ll research site limitations, zoning requirements, code restrictions, and utility availability. After we’re done with our exploration phase, we compile a project summary of current and future space needs.
Fueled by Inspiration
This is when the fun part begins. Armed with an approved project summary, our architects will begin creating inspired concepts for your building design. Our team works together internally to jury, choose, and combine our best ideas so that you get the best of the best.
The Creation Phase
Now that ideas have been gathered and the initial design has been approved, Upward Thinking extends out to the Creation phase. We’re very familiar with collaborating with all of the stakeholders involved in a project. Since Upward Thinking is grounded in a deep understanding of you and your project, we look forward to hearing from and collaborating with all of the stakeholders involved in a project.
This is also the time when we’ll work with interior designers, landscape architects, engineers, and specialty consultants.
Bringing it All to Life
We’ve gathered the input, information, ideas, regulations, and rules from experts throughout the building process. Now it’s up to us to integrate the information into the final design and construction documents.
But our job doesn’t end at construction! We take bids, prepare contracts, review bonds, pay requests, observe construction, and consult with your contractor all the way through to the very last nail. We believe that a commitment to Upward Thinking pays off in every little detail.
