Frequently Asked Questions

Below are common questions clients ask Coyle Thompson Jones about our services and how we

do business:

Who do you normally work for?
CTJ works on all types of commercial offices and retail projects. We do commerical interior design, corporate office design and space planning for business owners, facility managers, commercial contractors, real estate brokers, building owners, doctors, franchise owners and showroom managers. We normally don’t work on hospitality projects or law offices.

How do you charge for your services?
We can charge hourly or by the square foot. Our rate is $100 per hour. We would be happy to provide a quote for any project based on hours or fee per square foot.

Is your firm willing to work on all size projects – small or large?
We are willing and able to handle any size project. CTJ can design any size full scope corporate project or we can handle a particular aspect of a project, like just doing the construction drawings or selecting the furniture. We design new projects in existing buildings or renovate spaces for new uses or updated appearances.

Will you provide consulting services or professional opinions on corporate projects?
Yes, that is why we are willing to charge hourly, so we can assist our clients in whatever services they feel that they need.

What parts of the United States do you work in?
We normally work in the southeastern portion of the United States, but we can do consulting work anywhere in the world. We are licensed in the State of Georgia but have completed projects with Architects in Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina. Locally, we work with clients in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Smyrna, Roswell, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Norcross, Duluth, Lawrenceville and surrounding areas.

If I want to use your firm, how do I get started?
Telephone or email us and we will love to set up a complementary meeting with you to review the scope of your project and listen to your goals and objectives. We can then provide you with a proposal. Once an agreement has been reached, we will request a deposit in order to begin working on your project. Within a week or two, depending on the project size, we can present you with concepts sketches and floor plans.

Can you describe the typical phases of the design process?

1. SELECTION OF OUR DESIGN FIRM/INTRODUCTION- Initial meeting to meet the project team and review the site
   
2. PROGRAMMING PHASE- We will set initial goals/objectives and identify the pragmatic and subjective issues on your project. Beginning with gross programming, we proceed through the process of detailing your spatial needs.
   
3. SPACE PLANNING PHASE- CTJ completes a two dimensional allocation of the space satisfying the programming goals.
   
4. CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PHASE- Sketches and drawings that represent the major design elements/features are compiled for client review and approval. Sometimes these sketches are used for construction estimating.
   
5. PRICING DRAWINGS/CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION, PHASE ONE- Floor plans, utility layout, lighting plans, and budget finish selections are completed, reviewed and possible pricing.
   
6. CONSTRUCTION BIDDING PHASE- Drawings are sent out to multiple contractors for construction estimates or client may opt to negotiate the cost with one specific contractor
   
7. CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION, PHASE 2- Construction drawings are finalized, including all elevations and details. MEP’s are completed as necessary. Finish selections are budgeted in and final selections occur during the permitting process.
   
8. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT IS AWARDED- Final pricing may be reviewed again once drawings are completed. The construction schedule is finalized and the drawings are sent to the county. Final finish selections are completed.
   
9. CONSTRUCTION PHASE WITH CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT- CTJ can supervise the contractor and make site visits to represent the client for an additional fee or we can be available for questions via the phone to handle changes and questions for no additional charge.
   
10. OCCUPANCY- Our client moves in! For an additional fee, CTJ can provide plans coded to assist the movers in relocating the existing and new furniture into the new space. We are also available to spec or purchase any new furniture needed.
    

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