Our Approach

Our
approach

our
approach

Our Design Philosophy: An Upward Thinking Approach

At CMBA, we have a unique design philosophy we call Upward Thinking. This philosophy embodies our people-first mentality, and helps deliver on our promise of excellence. This way of thinking about design begins with you and your vision. It’s important that we understand where you’re coming from, and what you need. We’ll work to create a solid, clear vision of your project, inside and out. This foundation will then be built upon with innovative ideas and forward-thinking solutions.

Upward Thinking takes every project to the next level…and the next…and the next.

Discover

First, we listen.^® 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.

Inspire

The fun begins. 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.

Create

Once the initial design is approved, it’s time to create. We look forward to hearing from, and collaborating with, all of the stakeholders involved in a project. We regularly present to board members and meet with key personnel to ensure the highest functionality of your finished project.

We also work with interior designers, landscape architects, engineers and specialty consultants. Along the way, we encourage each collaborative member to apply “Upward Thinking” to their part of the process.

Integrate

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.

Implement

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 to the very last nail. We believe that a commitment to Upward Thinking pays off in every little detail.