Architecture | Engineering | Construction

Author: Haresh

RDAEP > Articles by: Haresh
RussellandDawsonInc-PPEDonation-JaimacaHealthSystem
News

Russell and Dawson Inc. and AORBIS Inc. Donate PPE Supplies to Jamaican Health System through Collaboration with Hartford HealthCare

September 8, 20220
Press Release
Russell and Dawson donations to Community Renewal Team's Mission

(L to R) Chris Benjamin, Bimal Patel, Chirag Thaker, Tanmay Thaker


Donation includes US$550,000 worth PPE supplies to alleviate needs of PPE kits on the Jamaican island

Hartford, Connecticut, September 08, 2022

Russell and Dawson Inc., an A/E/C firm and AORBIS Inc., the supplier of building products donated more than US$550,000 worth PPE supplies to Jamaican Health System through collaboration with Hartford HealthCare. The donation includes KN-95 masks, 3-ply masks, gloves, gowns and hand sanitizer — items which are still in great need in Jamaica.

Hartford HealthCare has forged a strong partnership with the Jamaican Health System since the start of the pandemic by facilitating donation of equipment & supplies and exchange of technology and information. “We shared the need of PPE supplies with local businesses, we are so grateful to leadership of Chirag Thaker & Jalpa Thaker in making this donation to Jamaican Healthcare System,” said Bimal Patel, President of Hartford Hospital and Senior Vice President, Hartford HealthCare.

“With the on-going pandemic, we were looking to donate PPE kits where they would be most valuable and useful. After learning about this excellent opportunity from Keith Grant, Sr. System Director for Infection Prevention at Hartford Healthcare, we decided to support the Jamaican Health System by making a contribution for the benefit of an island” said Chirag Thaker, President, Russell and Dawson Inc. and AORBIS Inc.

Chris Benjamin, Community Relations Officer for the Jamaican Consulate in New York City said “This donation will go a long way in alleviating the difficulties we are still having in Jamaica because of the pandemic. These PPE will be distributed to several hospitals on the island. It will help ensure there is an adequate supply of PPE, especially in the areas of greatest need,”

Here are few community involvements of Russell and Dawson Inc. and AORBIS Inc.

  • Russell and Dawson Inc. and AORBIS Inc. donated 25,000 K95 masks and 10,000 hand sanitizers to Community Renewal Team Inc., Anti-Poverty mission to aid people in Central Connecticut.
  • Russell and Dawson Inc. provided Pro-Bono Structural Design Services for Growing Spaces Growing Dome®, a greenhouse project for Community Child Guidance Clinic (CCGC).
  • Russell and Dawson Inc. has offered architectural design services either pro-bono or at minimal rates to more than 15 Animal Shelter Projects, 70 Worship Places (Churches, Temples, Mosques), 5 local Community Centers (Christian, Jewish, Islamic)

About Russell and Dawson Inc.

Russell and Dawson is a client-1st architectural design, engineering and construction services firm based out of Hartford, Connecticut. Since 1965, Russell and Dawson has completed more than 10,000 projects across various sectors in the northeast states. Read more about Russell And Dawson

About AORBIS Inc.

Established in the year 2018, AORBIS Procures Building Products, Materials, and Services for Owners, and General Contractors in the United States. Read more about AORBIS INC.

About Hartford HealthCare

With 33,000 colleagues, Hartford HealthCare’s unified culture enhances access, affordability, equity and expertise. Its care-delivery system — with more than 400 locations serving 185 towns and cities — includes two tertiary-level teaching hospitals, an acute-care community teaching hospital, an acute-care hospital and trauma center, three community hospitals, a behavioral health network, a multispecialty physician group, a clinical care organization, a regional home care system, an array of senior care services, a mobile neighborhood health program and a comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation network. On average, Hartford HealthCare touches more than 17,000 lives every single day. The unique, system-wide Institute Model offers a unified high standard of care in crucial specialties at hospital and ambulatory sites across Connecticut offering unparalleled expertise at the most affordable cost. The institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular, Ayer Neuroscience, Orthopedics and Tallwood Urology. Visit Hartford HealthCare at www.HartfordHealthCare.org and stay connected through newsletters and social media. Read more about Hartford Healthcare

Press release also available on PRWeb @ Press Release

Dan Lyman Russell, A.I.A - Lifetime achievement award winner by HBJ
News

Hartford Business Journal recognizes Dan Russell, Co-founder of Russell and Dawson Inc

June 24, 20220
Press Release
Russell and Dawson donations to Community Renewal Team's Mission

Dan Russell of Russell and Dawson Inc. Receives '2022 Lifetime Achievement Award' from Hartford Business Journal

Hartford, Connecticut, July 12, 2022

Hartford Business Journal (HBJ) has recognized Dan Lyman Russell, co-founder of Russell and Dawson Inc. and retiree, with the 2022 Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions and achievements in the architecture and engineering sector in the state of Connecticut during an event organized by Hartford Business Journal held on June 16, 2022 at the Farmington Gardens.

HBJ hosted an award ceremony to recognize the outstanding achievements of state’s some of the best family-owned companies and individuals under various categories. This annual Connecticut Family Business Awards program received over 40 nominations under various categories. This year’s class of winners was chosen by independent panel of judges from UConn’s Family Business Program and Klingberg Family Centers.

“We are very pleased and excited that Dan Russell is honored by the Hartford Business Journal for his work, dedication and contributions made over the period of 60 years. We would like to thank jury and Hartford Business Journal for recognizing Dan with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.” said Chirag Thaker, President of Russell and Dawson commenting on the award.

“We are glad to present Dan Russell with 2022 Family Business Lifetime Achievement Award. We recognized Dan’s contributions not only to architecture and engineering sector in the state but also his philanthropic contributions including donations and fundraising activities to benefit the society at large” – said the editor Greg Bordonaro of HBJ.

Here are few achievements and contributions of Dan Russell:

  • As Director at Goodwin College Dan made several donations and organized fundraising activities for the scholarship of the students. He was involved in multiple community organizations like East Hartford Fine Arts Committee and the Historical Society of East Hartford.
  • Dan was a proud past president of East Hartford Art League where he taught Silk screen Techniques and conducted book binding workshops.
  • Dan was a Registrar and Past Moderator for United Church of Christ. He was associated with many Church associations and have given back to them in the form of pro bono professional services.
  • Dan was a Past President of Buckingham Congregational Church, Rotary Club of East Hartford and served on homeowner initiative advisory committee for the Town of East Hartford.

Here is a featured article about Dan Russell on Hartford Business Journal’s website.

About Hartford Business Journal (https://www.hartfordbusiness.com)

The Hartford Business Journal is a growth-oriented business information company serving customers through multiple platforms across Greater Hartford and Connecticut. Hartford Business Journal is passionate about successful entrepreneurship and is the acknowledged leaders in catalyzing valued business connections for customers; both readers and advertisers.

Press release also available on PRWeb @ Press Release

Architecture and Engineering Design Services_By Russell and Dawson since 1965
AEC Blogs

Architectural Design & Engineering Services Since 1965

February 2, 20200
Architecture, Design & Construction Trends in 2018_by Russell and Dawson

As per the recent insight shared by IE School of Architecture and Design, the urban population is expected to double in the next 40 years, forcing cities to undertake a holistic and sustainable transformation of their model. One of the most significant challenges in architecture is to optimize its current capacity for developing denser metropolitan cities and areas to offer residents a better quality of life.

Architectural and Engineering Design Firms typically work on many small and large number of projects with outcomes that are hard to predict. Frequent changes in the requirement disrupt the normal course of activities. The design teams must be able to align at all times. Optimizing the current design and engineer the model becomes difficult. Forcing teams to put in extra hours for finishing the deliverable.

Russell and Dawson is one of the longest-serving architectural and engineering firms in the history of Connecticut, USA. It has overcome the design optimization challenges by delivering customized services across various industries. Founded in 1965, we provide integrated architectural and engineering services in New England and the Northeast regions.  Our design and engineering services include structural, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing engineering; sustainable design, and interior design.

We follow multi-disciplinary, client-first approach that makes us the A&E firm of choice in the states where we practice, as proved by our higher than 90% client retention rate. RDAEP comprises of various experienced and expert teams covering in-house architects, engineers, consultants, and technicians. Making us the one-stop destination for different architectural and engineering services.

With the urban population expected to be double in next two decades, our team is ready to innovate the rapid, massive scale architect design changes. Many design firms have limitations in-terms of capability and team scalability for delivering A&E projects. RDAEP has overcome such barriers by gaining experience and delivering 10,000+ A&E solutions to industries and sectors like Hospitality, Community, Office, Retail, Residential, Industrial, and Planning.

RDAEP’s A&E services include Architecture Design, Construction Management, Engineering, Sustainable Design and Interior Design Services. RDAEP also offers quality centric design services in line with the industry standards using modern technical knowledge and deliver client-specific solutions.

RDAEP has successfully helped marquee clients like Hyatt, CBRE, Broward County, Marriott, Hilton, Starwood Hotels and more. Some of our A&E projects include:

  • HVAC by upgrading the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport Terminal Chiller Plant. Including the addition of one chiller and one cooling tower plus replacement of two existing cooling towers while the airport continued to function.
  • Structural Design of South Regional Courthouse Parking Garage structural beam repairs. It included the restoration of 30 structural beams and Broward County Downtown 1200 Car and 350 Car Parking Garage.
  • Interior Design of City of Lauderhill Sadkin Community Center including 20,000 square feet of interior renovations and complete building exterior envelope repair.

We have been a reliable partner, helping esteemed clients to develop considerable value in architecture design and engineering. Speed up your delivery schedule with innovative designs and solutions to increase productivity and efficiency with RDAEP. Call us on (860) 289-1100 or Contact Us for your A&E needs.

Evolution of Hospitality Industry_Blog_by Russell and Dawson
AEC Blogs

Evolution of Hospitality Industry

January 8, 20200

In the year 1980, the United Nations World Tourism Organization announced the day of September 27 as “World Tourism Day”. The idea of this celebration is to bring sustainability to the tourism sector all around the world. UN World Tourism Organization defines tourism as “Activities of persons traveling to and staying in different places for not more than a consecutive year for leisure, business or traveling purpose.” The inception of traveling is as old as mankind. Our ancient civilizations traveled great lengths in search of food and shelter. Over the period of time, the purpose of traveling changed. The mere act of traveling has now become a giant industry. The tourism industry is a collage of various services like transportation, food, and beverages, lodging, travel agencies, entertainment, etc… Back in the old times, land and water were the only means of transportation. And they were often considered risky. But as the innovations gave birth to more convenient and safer ways of transportation, the tourism industry saw humongous growth in the number of travelers all around the globe. The tourism industry that we see today is the product of evolution in the hospitality sector, Innovations in transportations, advancements in communication technology, etc.

The idea of hospitality is what lies in the center of the tourism industry. The term Hospitality has been derived from a French word “Hospice” which means “Taking care of the travelers”. In Old times, locals used to let the travelers rest on kitchen floors or other extra spaces during their journey. There were no purpose-built resting facilities for tourists until monasteries decided to build one. This gave birth to lodging services. In the late 1700s, Inns came into being. Inns were nothing but a shelter by the road where travelers can stop to take rest and get some food. They would also take care of traveler’s horses while they rest. This is the time when the seeds of the modern hospitality facility were planted. What we see today is the growth of the past two millennia. Here’s how the lodging facilities evolved with time.

19TH CENTURY: INDULGENCE OF LUXURY INTO THE EVOLUTION OF HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

In the early 1800s, “Inns” were the only lodging facility available for the tourists. A lot of Inns were established prior 19th century. But, lodging was not just about bedding and resting facility anymore. They started providing food and drinks to the travelers. And soon the element of luxury started to blend in. This gave birth to hotels. Hotels emerged as more sophisticated facilities which provided better rooms and dining areas. The year of 1829 is considered as a landmark in the timeline of the American hospitality industry. It was the year when an American architect Isaiah Rogers designed and constructed the first luxury hotel “Tremont Hotel” in Boston, Massachusetts. It was the first hotel with private attached bathroom and lock on the doors. It used a steam-powered pump to lift up water to the storage tank on the roof. “Tremont Hotel” had set a benchmark for the luxurious hotels in those days. The hotels and Inns then on started giving more importance to services to stand out different than other hotels. They kept improving their services and facilities. At the later stage, hotels started to have bars. And soon the bars became an important selling point for the hotels. The architecture and aesthetics of the hotels were improving alongside. There were more multistory hotels and they had the beautiful exterior to stand out different from other hotels. Soon it was a trend for well-decorated ceilings and beautiful crystal chandeliers.

20TH CENTURY: BEGINNING OF MODERN HOSPITALITY ERA

Hospitality, which was rather a part of the culture, emerged as a huge business opportunity. A lot of people are approaching Architectural Design Firm to change the Hotel Design Architecture by incorporating more and more facilities. Innovations in transportation systems enabled more and more people to travel. Some people saw the opportunity and jumped into the hotel business. That is why in the early to mid 20th Century, a lot of giant hotel chains started doing their business. The industry had become more competitive than ever. In the year 1919, Conard Hilton opened his first hotel in Texas. Later on, Conard also bought the Ellsworth Statler’s chain of hotels in the year 1954. Marriot (est. 1927), Sheraton (est. 1937) and Hyatt (est. in 1957) also emerged as giant players in the industry.

There is an interesting story behind why Kemmon Wilson started Holiday Inn series of hotels and inns. Once Kemmon Wilson had gone for a holiday to Washington DC with his family. He had to pay extra for his five children in all the hotels they stayed in. Kemmon found the accommodations very expensive and uncomfortable for families. So he decided to start his own hotel. That is how the first Holiday Inn started in the year 1952. Holiday Inn went on to set better hospitality standards. Their main focus was to build family-friendly hotels. With their first hotel built in 1952, Holiday group went on to build its 1000th Holiday Inn in the year 1968. It was indeed a phenomenal growth for any hotel brand in those days.

MGM-Grand-Vegas-Evolution of Hospitality Industry_Blog_Hotel Architecture Firms_by Russell and Dawson

Cars became extremely popular in the mid 20th century. Intercity traveling became more convenient because of the well-connected network of roads. These factors favored the growth of Motels. The word motel is made up of “Motor and Hotel”. Motels were small 10×10 Ft wooden cabins for the travelers to take rest during the night journeys. These motels were built alongside the main highways to host more and more people who might want to take rest for a few hours or stay overnight during their journey. The concept of the motel was well received and they grew exponentially in numbers in a later stage. The motels were affordable and convenient and that is the reason why the concept of Motels was well received.

21ST CENTURY: TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATIONS IN THE EVOLUTION OF HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

While it all started with providing only a place for sleeping, the traditional hospitality industry has evolved to become what we see today. Despite all the changes the industry saw, the customer has always been the center. It is consistently evolving to become more advanced. In this new century, the hotels reached the new heights, literally. Some of the tallest hotels were built in the 21st century. The technological advancements in the Engineering Design Services made it all possible. Hotel Fairmont Makkah and Burj al Arab are some examples of it.

Founded in the year 2008, Airbnb opened up a new segment in the hospitality industry. It acts as a marketplace connecting people who wanted to rent their property with those who want to rent it. Since more and more people are traveling for business or for leisure, this gives them a very convenient and affordable option. Also, there has been seen a great hike in the number of solo travelers globally. These solo travelers not much bothered about the amenities. They don’t mind sharing spaces. They love meeting and interacting with locals as well as fellow travelers. And that is why concepts of youth hostels and home-hospitality have become new trends. The Internet helps a lot to such hospitality businesses. People can see the availability, photos, and reviews from other users. Today, we can browse through all our possible option for staying in any part of the world. We can know about services and amenities. Not only we can reserve our stay but we can also pay in advance. The recent trends in the evolution of hospitality industry favor the construction of hotels which has a classic historic touch integrated with modern services.

Evolution of Hospitality Industry_Blog_Hotel Architecture Firms_by Russell and Dawson
Evolution of Hospitality Industry_Blog_Hotel Architecture Firms_by Russell and Dawson

The hotel industry has always contributed largely in terms of revenue for any healthy economy. The modern hotel industry in 1960 valued around $3 Billion, which crossed the mark of $25 Billion in the year 1990. These numbers went down due to attacks of 9/11 and recession in the early 2000s. But the industry and its people stood strong and got back its lost pace soon in the new decade. Today, the hotel industry is worth more than $500 Billion providing jobs to 4.5 million people.

About Us

We at Russell and Dawson feel extremely proud of being associated with the hospitality industry. Founded in the year 1965, Russell and Dawson is a client-first company which has been providing architecture, engineering and construction services nationally and internationally for more than 50 years now. From the first hospitality project in the year 1982, we have provided various services to more than 245+ hospitality projects so far. Russell and Dawson has worked with hotel developers/owners for the new development, conversion or renovation projects for prestigious brands like IHG(30+ projects), Marriott(15+ projects), Hilton (55+ projects), Carlson Group(4 Projects), Best Western(14 projects), Hyatt and independent brands in the northeast region and overseas – India, UAE (Dubai), Sri Lanka, Egypt, Bahrain, and Brunei.

Since 1965, Russell and Dawson have been meeting and exceeding the expectations of our clients. If you would like to learn more about the incredible benefits of our hotel design-build service and connect with architectural experts regarding your next construction project, please call or contact us online today!

If you found this article informative, Please check our other blogs too.

Follow us on Linkedin for more updates:

Global Hotel Industry Value
570.18bn $
US Hotel Industry Revenue
208bn $
Avg ADR of US Hotels
129.83 $
Avg RevPAR of US Hotels
85.96 $
5 Stages of Architectural Design Phases_Russell and Dawson
AEC Blogs

5 Stages of Architectural Design Process

January 6, 20200

You might have wondered what are different stages while providing Architectural Design Services. Be it hotel, residential design architecture, commercial, warehouse, storage, industrial or retail, etc. In this article, we will explain all phases that are involved in a design-build of a new construction/development project.

There are typically 5 stages of architectural design involved in a design-build of any project.

These 5 phases/stages are

PRE-DESIGN (PD)

The first objective is to get-together with a client and determines overall project vision and goals. There are some key areas to discuss the project – scope, features, purpose, and functionality.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN (SD)

In this phase, we do series of rough sketches/drawings that illustrate the basic concepts of the design. Also, initial research of local compliance and regulations are completed at this time.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (DD)

This phase involves finalizing the design and specifying items such as materials, window and door locations and general structural details.

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (CD)

By now we have a final design. We can begin preparing construction drawings/blueprints, notes, and technical specifications necessary for bidding, construction, and permit application.

CONSTRUCTION

During this phase, we will build as per the design intent. Also if there are any changes, we discuss changes and options with the owner. It ensure that alterations are compatible with owner’s vision for the project.

  • PRE-DESIGN (PD)

    The first objective is to get-together with a client and determines overall project vision and goals. There are some key areas to discuss the project – scope, features, purpose, and functionality.

  • SCHEMATIC DESIGN (SD)

    In this phase, we do series of rough sketches/drawings that illustrate the basic concepts of the design. Also, initial research of local compliance and regulations are completed at this time.

  • DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (DD)

    This phase involves finalizing the design and specifying items such as materials, window and door locations and general structural details.

  • CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (CD)

    By now we have a final design. We can begin preparing construction drawings/blueprints, notes, and technical specifications necessary for bidding, construction, and permit application.

  • CONSTRUCTION

    During this phase, we will build as per the design intent. Also if there are any changes, we discuss changes and options with the owner. It ensure that alterations are compatible with owner’s vision for the project.

1 – PRE-DESIGN (PD)

The first objective is to get-together with a client and determines overall project vision and goals. Irrespective of the industry being residential, healthcare, industrial, hospitality etc., there are some key areas to discuss the project –  scope, features, purpose, and functionality.

In this phase, we carry out

  • Client consultation
  • Existing conditions survey and documentation
  • Photographs
  • Measurements
  • Compile existing drawings if any
  • Prepare high-level base drawings
  • Statement of probable build/construction cost
  • Programming space and use
  • Code review

This phase ends with owner’s decision to move forward with a project.

2 – SCHEMATIC DESIGN (SD)

In this phase, we do series of rough sketches/drawings that illustrate the basic concepts of the design.  Also, initial research of local compliance and regulations are completed at this time.

At the end of this phase, we deliver

  • Floor plans of all levels with generic openings and plumbing fixtures
  • Exterior building elevations with representative openings and finishes
  • Building cross-section
  • Typical wall section

And we move to the next phase with the owner’s approval.

3 – DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (DD)

Design development collects the results from the schematic design phase and takes them one step further.

This phase involves finalizing the design and specifying items such as materials, window and door locations and general structural details.

At the end of this phase, we deliver

  • Floor plans with a proposed basis of design openings and plumbing fixtures
  • Overall dimensions
  • Structural grid dimensions
  • Interior wall dimensions
  • Exterior elevations with a proposed basis of design openings and finishes
  • Additional building sections
  • Wall sections at all typical conditions
  • Typical details
  • Additional details to establish a basis for design products

Now we have given shape to project ’s vision through drawings and written specifications.

4 – CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (CD)

By now we have a final design. We can begin preparing construction drawings/blueprints, notes, and technical specifications necessary for bidding, construction, and permit application. Construction contractors will use these detailed drawings and specifications to prepare for the construction.

In this phase, we deliver

  • Floor plans fully annotated
  • All dimensions
  • Room, wall, door, and window identification
  • Section and detail indicators
  • General notes and detailed notes
  • Exterior elevations fully annotated
  • All building sections required for construction
  • Wall sections at all conditions
  • Details fully annotated
  • Structural plans, details, and notes
  • Plumbing plans, schedules, details, and notes
  • HVAC plans, schedules, details, and notes
  • Electrical power and lighting plans, schedules, details, and notes

And we move to the final phase

5 – CONSTRUCTION

Construction Administration Services by Russell and Dawson for Hotel Development

Finally, the construction is underway.

During this phase, we will build as per the design intent. Also if there are any changes, we discuss changes and options with the owner. It ensure that alterations are compatible with owner’s vision for the project. This is the last phase and at the end of this phase, a project is ready for the use/occupancy.

Feel free to reach out to us on info@rdaep.com if you are planning a new construction project. Check out the latest Hotel construction trends in Northeast of USA.

ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION TRENDS IN 2018
AEC Blogs

Architecture, Design & Construction Trends in 2018

January 4, 20200
Architecture, Design & Construction Trends in 2018_by Russell and Dawson

As we say goodbye to 2017 and head into a new year, let us understand the trends that will be impacting architecture, design and construction industry. As you read further, you will find that some of the trends shared below are not brand new, but their relevance is of utmost importance in current “latest” trend. Other construction trends are further out in the future, and may never materialize. Take a few minutes and ask yourself some simple questions:

  • “How can my company effectively respond to this trends to remain competitive and even gain a competitive advantage?”
  • “Will this trend impact our industry?”
  • “Will this trend specifically impact my company – or my clients?”

Top 5 Architecture Design & Construction Trends in 2018

1. Prefabrication and Modular Construction become Mainstream

The previous trend was about the need to improve construction productivity. Prefab and modular construction are an excellent way to do this. One of the classic example of this trend is The Great Pyramid of Giza. Where its outer limestone blocks were cut ten miles away and were transported upriver, making prefabrication popular since ancient times. However, in recent years this trend has been picking up in use and acceptance. Case in point: a mechanical contractor that has adopted a manufacturing-style approach, utilizing prefabrication and modular construction to build much of a given mechanical system in their shops, and then transport the modules to the project site.  Electrical contractors and drywall installers have seen the benefits of this approach. They are now regularly asking the mechanical contractor to incorporate conduit piping and drywall hangers into their assemblies.

2. BIM (Building Information Modeling) Continues to Evolve as Firms Integrate 4D, 5D, but 6D Remains Elusive

As per a recent survey, in the last three-quarters, every A/E/C firms have been involved with at least one BIM project. But the reality is that many mid-sized construction firms still have no BIM experience. They may have be “involved” in a BIM project; by outsourcing to RDAEP for designing in Revit, but then went old-school with 2D drawings and specs. There was no use of implementing the building model during construction phase. The concept of owners integrating building models for Computer Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) is still not mainstream. The primary reason is not having a qualified staff. Companies don’t understand the value of the model post-construction.

RDAEP helps such companies by providing Architectural Design Services and developing models using AutoCAD and engineering software. To respond to the growing prevalence of Building Information Modeling, many countries are seeking to implement national standards. In the United States, a number of organizations, firms, and government agencies have partnered to develop the National BIM Standard-United States (NBIMS-US).

3. Protecting Coastal Cities Becomes Priority

The New York Times recently published an article about investors shying away from coastal real estate, like in areas of Florida facing increasing king tides. An article in the Scientific American noted that the sea level rise over the coming century could be the highest in human history, with the east coast of North America baring much of the brunt. Some scientists have revised their sea rise forecasts upward, and are now projecting that by 2100 many coastal cities will be abandoned.

Now the question to ask is How will governments respond? How will they protect such heavily populated cities like New York and Miami?  Where will the funds come from? With many recent natural disasters happening worldwide, the trend of safeguarding coastal cities has gaining priority. But as time passes, its importance recedes like the tide. Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy brought this trend to the forefront of the national consciousness. New natural disasters like Autumn hurricanes stir new fears.

4. Profitability Continues to be Thin for Many Firms

PSMJ Resources just reported that based upon their 2016 Circle of Excellence data, the top A/E firms are exceeding 35% profit.  But a lot of design and construction firms still struggle with low margins. There are scattered anecdotal evidence of A/E/C firms working for cost to keep staff busy.  Certainly, things are better than they were during The Great Recession. Those areas heavily dependent upon the energy industry and fracking, the past few years haven’t exactly been boom time. Third-party facilities management are increasingly bidding out professional services. Productivity, New delivery models and Innovation are the three important pillars to become profitable.

5. Evolution of Project Delivery

According to this article by McKinsey, manufacturing productivity gains have outpaced construction productivity gains by 1.7 times since 1994. Furthermore, construction productivity has slightly declined during this time. The article refers to several factors for this: poor organization, inadequate communication, flawed performance management, contractual misunderstandings, missed connections, poor short-term planning, insufficient risk management, and limited talent management. Any of that sound familiar?  In recent years, very few A/E/C firms have been directly involved with PPP (Public-Private-Partnership) funded projects. Still there’s a lot of work to be done. With IPD (Integrated Project Delivery), an interesting concept that combines having a fully-integrated team with risk/reward sharing on a given project, has been gaining huge acceptance in the coming years.

There’s a lot of Architecture Design & Construction trends out there to follow, and these are but a few. Contact RDAEP, a full-service Architectural and Engineering Design and Drafting Firm to help you align to the trends. We offer services like 2D architectural drafting, 3D drafting projects, Design-Build Construction. If you are looking to outsource engineering and 2D drafting, then have a look at some of our projects to understand the scope and range of our services. Call us on (860) 289-1100 or Contact Us for your Design Engineering requirements.

AEC Blogs

How to choose an architecture and engineering design company?

January 2, 20200
Mechanic Street Rendering_Best Architect and Engineering Design Firm_Russell and Dawson

Every construction project starts with a vision and real need is to transform that vision into a reality. One of the most important decision is about choosing an Architectural Design Firm fitting both project needs and at the same time making financial sense. The most methodical way is to formulate a RFP and send out RFP to all architectural design companies/firms and evaluate their responses based on following three criteria.

1. Experience

The most important aspect when selecting an architectural and engineering design firm. Experience speaks a volume, how long they have been in the business and how many projects they have executed. The architecture company having diverse project experience and credentials will do the job for you. There were times when decisions were taken to hire a big firm but not any more, now who can do the job or fit against the needs.

The most important aspect when selecting an architectural and engineering design firm. Experience speaks a volume, how long they have been in the business and how many projects they have executed. The architecture company having diverse project experience and credentials will do the job for you. There were times when decisions were taken to hire a big firm but not any more, now who can do the job or fit against the needs.

2. Expertise

What you need to make sure is firm’s expertise and how well that specific expertise fits into your needs. The firm providing comprehensive services will show you their past and ongoing project works and will provide customer references for you to talk to them.

3. Effectiveness

You need to discuss and evaluate following with company, you need to make sure how good is the company in their deliverable

  1. Schematic design
  2. Design development
  3. Construction documents
  4. Selection or complete management of sub-contractors
  5. Bidding or negotiation
  6. Construction Administration

What are some of the questions you should ask, here is a brief list

    • What types of services do you offer? Are you open to providing a la carte services that I need?
    • Will you design to a budget?
    • What is your experience with energy-efficient design, green building, affordable design etc.?
    • What kind of collaborative tools that you use for client communication?
    • Do you assign a single point of contact (SPoC) for every project?

Having a checklist table in RFP covering all key aspects of your needs and evaluating all responses against this checklist would be a simple process to shortlist.

Contact us and let us be your partner, we are an architectural company and Engineering Design Services firm based out of Hartford, Connecticut, USA having experience of executing over 10,000 projects across commercial, residential, hotels, industrial, community, and government. We have been in the business since 1965 and have worked with various customers in last 50+ years. We offer comprehensive or a la carte A & E services to our customers.

TRANSFORMING CONSTRUCTION PROCESS WITH LEAN CONSTRUCTION
AEC Blogs

Transforming Construction Process with Lean Construction

January 2, 20200
TRANSFORMING CONSTRUCTION PROCESS WITH LEAN CONSTRUCTION

Lean construction is derived from the concepts of lean manufacturing, and it combines operational research and practical construction design development. Many lean manufacturing practices and principles for end-to-end design are implemented in the lean construction process. To simplify, lean construction is about managing and improving construction process to satisfy customer needs and achieve quality, schedule delivery, safety and profitability.

Why Lean Construction?

There are three key priorities in any construction process:

  1. Keep the work flowing so that the workforce employed are always productive
  2. Reduce inventory of tools and materials
  3. Reduce waste and inefficiency inefficiency

To simplify, optimal usage of materials, time and efforts are crucial in the construction process for generating value in the process. Moreover, for any project, the system needs to collaborate business owners, AEC, contracts, facility managers, workers and various other teams at the early project stage. Lean construction identifies the gaps and aims to benefit the overall construction plan.

Lean construction follows the lean production approach, but it is differently perceived during practical implementation. Various workflows are integrated into the construction planning process to align the supply chain to maximize the value and minimize the waste. Toyota and other such companies have pioneered the lean model using TQM, SPC, and Six-Sigma to meet customer demands and improve business profitability.

How to implement Lean Construction?

We can implement Lean construction by using CPM and work breakdown structure. Other tools and methods are also used like Last Planner System, Target Value Design, and Lean Project Delivery System.

There are also toolkits available to implement Lean construction like:

  • Lean Design: BIM, A3, Process Design, Kanban
  • Lean Supply: JIT, 6S
  • Lean Assembly: Value Chain Mapping, Visual Site, Daily Crew Huddles

The lean principles can be implemented entirely and efficiently by focusing on refining the whole construction process. It requires all teams, stakeholders to be committed, involved, and work to overcome obstacles that may arise from traditional contractual arrangements.

Each departments need to follow below guidelines:

For Construction:

  • Clear communication of project plans
  • Training the team to improve teamwork and multi-skills
  • Daily progress reporting and improvement meetings
  • A well-motivated, well-trained, flexible and fully engaged workforce

For Design:

  • Leverage Virtual Reality or 3D design to adequately visualize and define the project requirements from the customer’s perspective
  • Value Management to get better clarity and focus on client value
  • Use of integrated design and build arrangements (including partnering) to encourage close cooperation between designers, constructors, and specialist suppliers
  • Design for Standardization and Pre-assembly – both of components and processes to achieve higher quality and cost and time savings.

For Procurement:

  • Supply chain management and rationalization of the supply chain to integrate all stakeholders to contribute to delivering the overall customer value
  • Transparency of costs – elimination of waste in both processes and activities requires a clear and complete understanding of costs to ensure right decisions on customer value.
  • We must address confidentiality of expense and cash flows
  • Eliminating the boundaries between companies by partnering and getting more contribution to achieve a common goal

For Construction Planning:

  • Establish ‘best in class’ construction methods and outputs
  • Formation of a stable project program, with precise identification of critical path
  • Risk management – to manage risks throughout the project

For Logistics:

  • Just-in-time delivery of materials to the point of use eliminates the need for on-site storage and double handling

RDAEP is a full-service architectural, engineering and construction firm to help you optimize the construction process with lean principles. Our services include architecture, HVAC, plumbing, electrical engineering, interior design and structural engineering services. Call us on (860) 289-1100 or Contact Us for your design-built requirements.

AEC Blogs

Top Hotel Construction Trends

January 2, 20200

According to the year-end U.S. Construction Pipeline Trend Report(Nov 2019) from Lodging Econometrics (LE),  hotel construction market in U.S. has grown up by 6% by projects and 8% by rooms year-over-year (YOY). With the emergence of a new booming economy, the pace of global growth is building momentum in coming years. The fourth quarter earnings reports by established brands Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt all show strong RevPAR and corroborate with the latest hotel construction trends.

New hotel openings in the LE forecast for 2020 stand at 1,112 new hotels/122,702 rooms followed by 1,126 new hotels/130,447 rooms scheduled to open in 2021.

Russell and Dawson recently added construction services to its portfolio of services, here is a video of one of the ongoing A/E/C projects – Construction of Fairfield Inn & Suites at Williamstown, MA and expect few more projects to start in Q1, 2020. As an AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) firm. These are the following hotel construction trends driving the US market.

1. Re-purpose History

Many of the recently developing projects are focused on converting historic properties into grand, five-star landmark hotels. Such trend is a key attraction area for guests to experience the royal historical experience. Moreover, most cities are offering additional incentives for redevelopment and historic tax credits enabling a smart investment for hotel chains.

One of our current project is about converting the building (known as gateway to East Boston for the local community) which was constructed in 1912 as a shoe factory into a hotel which will blend local and historic elements to create a familiar yet distinct hospitality offering for the area.

2. Design Renovation

One of the key strategies to staying competitive in the hotel industry is renovation by transforming existing infrastructure with modern amenities. Last year has recorded the highest number of hotel renovation projects in the U.S. Many leading brands are proactively changing their standards based on guest experience, and implementing design changes to the room layouts, guest bathrooms, and overall hospitality experience.

One of our ongoing project is about renovating and re-branding of Howard Johnson (built in 1969) to Aloft Hotel  – a five-story structure with a new retail use and site improvements such as additional parking space,  groundwater recharge, LED site lighting, energy improvements.

3. Mixed-use Development

Mixed-use development continues to be the trend since past 2 years. Hotel developers and real-estate investment firms are continue to see RFPs from municipalities to develop mixed-use project in their township or municipality. In such kind of projects, need is to combine hotel, retail and restaurants/bars since it benefits local patrons and visiting travelers as it provides a range of options.

Our Hospitality Projects includes renovation of old hotels into an upscale hotel with mixed-use development.

4. Aesthetic Integration – Patterns & Textures

Trend comes from “Showcasing Local”.  Hotels have responded by abiding town/city requirements called out by government officials to maintain town/city’s heritage or look. Fairfield Inn & Suites at Williamstown, MA changed its facade design to brick façade so it looks like a factory rather than a typical chain hotel and maintain Williamstown’s heritage as a town with brick factories and academic buildings. Russell and Dawson is a design-build contractor for this Fairfield Inn & Suites hotel project.

Construction Services_by Russell and Dawson
News

Russell and Dawson Adds Construction Services to become A/E/C firm

December 30, 20190
Russell and Dawson Adds Construction Services to become A/E/C firm

Adds construction services to deliver better value, superior quality, and faster completion to clients in the Northeast states

Hartford, Connecticut, March 22, 2018

Russell and Dawson LLC, one of the longest-serving architectural and engineering firms in the history of Connecticut, will now offer construction services to deliver better value, higher quality and faster completion to clients across various markets in the northeast states.

Since 1965, Russell and Dawson has provided integrated A & E services for all sizes of projects across various markets. The decision to offer construction services supports strategic initiatives to achieve superior results for clients that positively impact business outcomes and to expand steady growth. “With addition of our design-build construction services, now we can seamlessly integrate architecture, engineering and construction teams which will deliver many benefits such as speed to market, improved cost controls, operational efficiencies and superior design & quality to our clients.” said Russell and Dawson President Chirag Thaker.

At the Fairfield Inn & Suites located in Williamstown, MA, Russell and Dawson was commissioned by 430 Main Hotels LLC, to provide integrated architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) services for the development of a 56,000 SQFT hotel with 95 rooms on a two-acre land. “We selected Russell and Dawson as design-build contractor and having them as single source responsibility benefitting us a lot. We are confident project will complete on time, within budget and as per the brand specifications,” said Navin Shah, Owner of 430 Main Hotels LLC.

Other hospitality projects being done by Russell and Dawson includes:

Russell and Dawson LLC (www.rdaep.com):

Russell and Dawson is a client-1st architectural design firm, engineering and construction services firm based out of Hartford, Connecticut. Since 1965, Russell and Dawson has created more than 100 million square feet of space with trust and creativity through the execution of more than 10,000 projects across various markets/industries/sectors in the northeast states – New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, Michigan, and New Hampshire.

For more information, please contact:

Nirav Shah

Russell and Dawson LLC

860 289 1100 Extension 305

Nirav (dot) shah (at) rdaep (dot) com

Press release also available on PRWeb – at: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2018/03/prweb15337048.htm