If growing a thriving architectural practice was only about design, that would be one thing. But it’s not.
It takes diplomacy, grit, and talent to navigate often conflicting aims of project owners, general contractors, engineers, and code officials while staying true to aesthetic, performance, timeline, and sustainability goals.
It’s a lot to get right. That’s where Scott Alden comes in.
Consider Alden a trusted advocate of the architect’s creative vision. For nearly four decades he has served as a building product pro’s pro by helping hundreds of residential and light commercial architects advance their practice through material specification counsel.
“Architectural consultants perform a necessary advisory role,” says Alden, an architectural representative specializing in windows and doors for JELD-WEN’s Architectural Services Group. “It’s my job to make sure the application delivers on size, aesthetics, schedule, and performance.”
A Welcome Challenge for Architects
In a design environment that celebrates grandeur and the word size takes center stage, architects often ask, “How big can I go?” when it comes to windows and doors. A company like JELD-WEN offers an extensive range of options, including size, aesthetics, window operation, performance, and code compliance.
Alden says that presents a different kind of challenge for architects: The best way to rapidly navigate the breadth of possibilities to find the right fit.
“The architectural consultant is a valuable colleague in quickly pinpointing the right solution in the least amount of time,” explains Alden. “That often requires balancing budget constraints with the architect’s aesthetic intent. Responding promptly and correctly helps minimize risk, optimizes the budget, and speeds project delivery.”
Alden cites a recent example in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. It’s a church project that requires impact-rated glass for wind zone 3. “To meet the design pressure, a four wide, 144-inch-wide by 120-inch-tall unit window assembly with structural mulled elements must be performance certified to meet strict coastal code. Can we engineer it accordingly? Can we provide a mulled window assembly, whether it’s field or factory assembled? Those are fun questions to work through,” the long-time consultant observes.
Top 10 Spec Support Factors
What guidance does Alden offer to architects seeking to collaborate with a manufacturer that has a robust architectural services team? He recommends that design professionals evaluate several key factors when selecting a top-tier architectural consultant (AC) and manufacturer:
- Early collaboration: A good AC should be available to join pre-construction planning and material selection discussions right from the start.
- Code and regulatory expertise: ACs should be able to offer deep knowledge of building codes and regulations to help guide design decisions.
- Performance assurance: ACs can ensure window and door systems meet project specs, including certified ratings for air, water, and structural performance.
- Complete documentation: An AC should support the material specification with all pertinent data, including CSI specifications, elevations, schedules, and structural engineering information.
- Rigorous oversight: Count on the AC for prompt double-checking for missing specifications or other critical data needed for CSI specification compliance.
- Prompt follow through: ACs must handle substitution requests and delivery of shop drawings (Level 1, 2, and 3) with speed and certainty.
- Trusted aesthetic counsel: The AC must provide timely, expert aesthetic support in the selection of custom window and door shapes, sizes and designs.
- Comprehensive solution: Depend on the AC for a total material solution, including a broad selection of custom trim with available color matching and other aesthetic options including wood species, glass composition, color/finish, and more.
- Installation certainty: Look to the AC for accepted installation practices to ensure optimum performance and regional code and warranty compliance.
- Single source responsibility: The AC must be accountable throughout the project journey, from concept to project delivery for the specified material.
“It makes sense to work with an architectural consultant that offers expert recommendations and isn’t shy about stepping away from an assignment that doesn’t fit their product offerings,” advises Alden. “All of us in the JELD-WEN Architectural Services Group are accomplished at serving the best interests of our design partners.”
Learn more about how the JELD-WEN Architectural Services Group helps deliver quality window and door solutions with confidence, speed, and performance.
