Are you an Architecture or Design-Build firm?

While SARCO Architects excels in delivering comprehensive Design-Build services, our core strength lies in our architectural design expertise. We understand that each client's journey is unique, and we tailor our services accordingly. We begin by focusing intently on the design phase, crafting meticulously detailed and thoroughly documented architectural plans that serve as the blueprint for your dream home. This allows you to fully realize your vision before moving forward with construction.

Many of our clients find that the seamless transition from design to construction with SARCO is a natural and highly beneficial progression. They appreciate the deep understanding of their project that our integrated team possesses, from the initial architectural vision to the intricate details of interior architecture, lighting design, and finally, construction. This continuity ensures that the original design intent is preserved throughout the entire process, minimizing the risk of miscommunication, costly errors, and delays that can often arise when working with separate design and construction firms. It's this integrated approach, our meticulous attention to detail, and our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction that sets SARCO apart. While we welcome the opportunity to manage the construction of your home, we are equally dedicated to providing exceptional architectural design services, regardless of whether we handle the construction phase.

Your design proposal is structured based on services packages. Can I select a package and change my mind later for a different one?

We understand that visions can evolve, and we strive to remain flexible while ensuring the integrity of the design process. Our service packages are designed to provide a clear framework for our collaboration, outlining the scope of services and associated fees.

If you initially select a premium package, you'll benefit from a more comprehensive suite of services from the outset, including integrated interior architecture and lighting design. Because these services are woven into the design process from the beginning, it's generally not possible to "downgrade" to a less comprehensive package later, as the work will have already been completed with those integrated services in mind.

However, if you begin with a less comprehensive package and later decide to upgrade, we can certainly accommodate this. We'll simply need to adjust the fee to reflect the added services, as the initial work may have been completed without the full integration of disciplines like interior architecture and lighting design. We'll also need to revisit the project timeline to seamlessly incorporate these additional services and ensure that the project progresses smoothly. Our goal is to create your dream home, and we'll work with you to make that happen, even if your initial vision evolves along the way. Open communication is key, and we encourage you to discuss any potential changes with us as early as possible so we can efficiently adapt the design process.

Do your design fees include all of the needed engineering trades also?

Yes, our design fees are comprehensive and cover the complete set of project phases. While the initial schematic design phase primarily focuses on architectural vision, once approved, we seamlessly integrate the expertise of key engineering disciplines. This typically includes structural, electrical, mechanical, and HVAC engineers, ensuring that all aspects of your home are meticulously planned and coordinated. We believe that a truly integrated design process, where architects and engineers collaborate closely from the outset, is crucial for minimizing potential issues, optimizing performance, and delivering a cohesive and high-quality final product.

Furthermore, we can also incorporate landscape designers into our fee structure, should you desire a holistic approach to your property's design, extending from the architecture itself to the surrounding environment. Our goal is to provide a seamless and all-encompassing design experience, allowing you to focus on your vision while we manage the complexities of the process.

Do you provide the construction services on any type of project?

While SARCO Architects possesses extensive experience in managing the construction of luxury residences, we strategically focus our construction services to ensure the highest level of attention and on-site presence. Managing a construction project demands significant time and resources, and to maintain our unwavering commitment to quality and client satisfaction, we concentrate on projects that align with our expertise and logistical capabilities. We find that focusing our construction management efforts allows us to provide a more hands-on, detail-oriented approach.

For projects where we do not directly manage construction, we can assist our clients in the search and selection of reputable builders who share our commitment to excellence. We leverage our extensive network of industry contacts to identify builders whose skills and experience align with the specific requirements of the project. In these instances, SARCO can also provide invaluable construction oversight services, ensuring that the project adheres to the meticulously crafted design plans and our exacting standards. This collaborative approach offers clients the best of both worlds: the expertise of a trusted builder combined with SARCO's design vision and quality control. We believe this tailored approach allows us to deliver exceptional value and maintain the high level of service our clients expect.

Why do you offer Interior Architecture as part of your service packages?

At SARCO Architects, we believe that true luxury lies in the seamless integration of all design elements, creating a cohesive and harmonious living experience. A well-executed project requires meticulous attention to detail, not just in the architectural design, but also in the selection and integration of interior elements. In our experience, coordinating with separate interior design firms can sometimes lead to challenges in maintaining project momentum and ensuring cohesive design. Information may not be delivered in a timely fashion, impacting the overall project workflow and potentially leading to costly delays or miscommunications, especially with MEP engineering coordination.

To address these challenges and provide our clients with a truly seamless and integrated project delivery experience, we incorporated interior architecture into our suite of services years ago. This allows us to make design decisions in-house, ensuring that the interior design is perfectly aligned with the architectural vision from the outset. Our integrated BIM workflow further enhances this collaboration, allowing all project team members to visualize and understand the interior design aspects, resulting in a more coordinated and efficient process.

By including interior architecture services within our packages, we offer our clients a comprehensive and detailed design experience, eliminating the need to coordinate with a separate interior design firm. This not only streamlines the process but also translates to significant cost savings for our clients, as these services are integrated into our workflow and offered at a more competitive rate compared to hiring an independent firm. It's all part of our commitment to providing a holistic and client-centric approach to luxury residential design.

What levels of project oversight do you offer in case your company does not handle the construction directly?

Understanding that our clients are often international and rely on us to be their trusted advisors, SARCO Architects offers various levels of project oversight to provide peace of mind and ensure the successful execution of their vision. We act as their eyes and ears on the ground, guiding them through the local nuances of the construction process. Our options include:



• Project Supervision and Oversight of the Builder: This foundational level of oversight involves regular site visits, progress reviews, and communication with the builder to ensure adherence to the design plans and quality standards.
  
  
• Project Supervision and Oversight plus Billing Review and Approval for Disbursement: This enhanced level adds an extra layer of financial protection. We review and approve all builder invoices before disbursement, ensuring transparency and accuracy in project expenditures.
  
  
• Project Supervision and Oversight, Billing Review, and Contract Management of all Major Trades: This comprehensive option provides the highest level of client protection. In addition to supervision and billing review, we directly manage contracts with all major trade subcontractors. This transparent approach ensures competitive pricing, direct payment to vendors and suppliers, and prevents funds from being allocated elsewhere. It provides complete financial visibility and control for our clients.
  
  

Each of these options is designed to provide increasing levels of protection and control for our clients, allowing them to choose the level of involvement that best suits their needs and comfort level. Our goal is to ensure a smooth, transparent, and successful construction process, even when we are not directly managing the build.

I've spoken to other architects who claim that they can deliver faster results, how do your respond to these claims?

At SARCO Architects, we believe that true luxury is not just about the final product, but also about the journey. While some firms may offer seemingly quicker timelines, we prioritize a comprehensive and meticulous approach that, while potentially requiring more upfront time, ultimately saves our clients significant time, money, and stress during the construction phase.

Our commitment to excellence means that every aspect of your project is thoroughly analyzed, meticulously resolved, and comprehensively documented. Our drawings are far more detailed than those produced by many other firms, leaving no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation. This level of detail requires a greater investment of time during the design phase, as we delve deep into every facet of the project, developing and documenting solutions for every potential challenge.

This investment, however, pays enormous dividends during construction. Our comprehensive approach minimizes the risk of unforeseen issues, costly change orders, and project delays. By thoroughly addressing every detail upfront, we eliminate the frustrating and expensive scenario of having to "figure things out" on the fly during construction, or worse, having to correct mistakes after they've been built. While a rushed design process might seem appealing initially, it often leads to significant cost overruns, delays, and compromises in quality during construction. At SARCO, we believe in doing it right the first time, ensuring a smooth, efficient, and ultimately more cost-effective journey to your dream home.

You describe your workflow to be 100% based on BIM technology. What is BIM, and is it more expensive?

While some firms may still rely on outdated 2D software, SARCO Architects utilizes Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology for all our projects. This isn't simply about using different software; it represents a paradigm shift in how we design and deliver luxury residences. While the cost of BIM development itself isn't necessarily higher, the value it brings to your project is immeasurable. It's truly a night-and-day difference.

BIM allows you to experience your home virtually, long before construction begins. Instead of trying to decipher 2D drawings, you'll be able to visualize every detail, explore different design options, and truly understand the spatial relationships within your home. This level of visualization is simply impossible with 2D programs. BIM empowers you to make informed decisions with complete clarity, eliminating the guesswork and potential for miscommunication that can arise with traditional methods.

Furthermore, the benefits of BIM extend far beyond the design phase. During construction, the on-site teams utilize the BIM model to ensure complete clarity and coordination. This minimizes errors, reduces rework, and streamlines the entire construction process, ultimately saving you time and money. While some architects working solely in 2D may offer lower fees, their services simply cannot compare to the level of detail, visualization, and coordination that BIM provides. It's an investment in the overall quality, efficiency, and success of your project. Seeing is believing – we encourage you to compare a sample 2D drawing with a sample BIM model to truly appreciate the difference. The clarity and level of detail are tremendous. BIM isn't just a technology; it's our commitment to delivering the best possible experience and outcome for our clients.

Other architects offer some quick initial floor plans , do you work similarly?

At SARCO Architects, we believe that architectural design is a holistic and deeply thoughtful process, far more intricate than simply sketching a floor plan. While a floor plan provides a basic layout, it's merely a starting point. True architectural design involves the simultaneous consideration of massing, volume, textures, surfaces, openings, and the myriad other elements that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality of a luxury residence. These elements are not afterthoughts; they are integral to the design process from the very beginning.

Developing a comprehensive schematic design requires a significant investment of time and expertise. It involves carefully considering every detail, from the interplay of light and shadow to the selection of materials and finishes. And, as we've discussed, our commitment to BIM technology allows us to translate these complex considerations into a virtual reality experience for our clients. This level of visualization is simply not possible with a quick floor plan.

When we present a design proposal, our clients receive a comprehensive set of drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and a fully interactive BIM model. This allows them to truly immerse themselves in the design, explore every angle, and understand the spatial relationships in a way that a simple floor plan could never convey. Many clients find it challenging to visualize architectural drawings, much like trying to understand a foreign language. BIM and virtual reality bridge that gap, providing complete clarity and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. A quick floor plan might seem appealing in its simplicity, but it often leads to misunderstandings, missed opportunities, and ultimately, a less satisfying final result. At SARCO, we believe in providing our clients with the tools and information they need to fully understand and appreciate the design of their dream home.

Do you hire freelance or full-time staff?

Absolutely. At SARCO Architects, we believe that our greatest asset is our team. We maintain a full-time, highly skilled staff of architects and interior designers who are dedicated to upholding our exacting standards of quality. This continuity is crucial for delivering exceptional results. When considering other firms, it's essential to inquire about their staffing model. Many firms minimize overhead by hiring freelance drafters or modelers on a per-project basis. While this may seem cost-effective initially, it can lead to inconsistencies in quality and a lack of cohesive vision. These external resources may simply execute instructions without a deep understanding of the project's nuances or the client's overall vision.

At SARCO, our team is trained in-house, over years, to not just draft and model, but to think critically, proactively identify potential challenges, and develop creative solutions. They are immersed in our design philosophy, our BIM workflow, and our commitment to client satisfaction. They work collaboratively with our engineers and suppliers, ensuring that every detail in our documentation translates seamlessly into the built reality. This level of integration and expertise is simply not achievable with a revolving door of freelance contractors. Our permanent staff is invested in the success of your project, and their dedication is reflected in the quality of our work.

Do you handle the electrical or structural plans yourself?

While we collaborate with expert engineering consultants for specialized designs and plans, SARCO Architects maintains a close and active role in the engineering process. In Costa Rica, architects are permitted to design the structure of residences up to two stories without a structural engineer, provided the details adhere to local seismic code minimums. However, at SARCO, we believe in a collaborative approach that leverages the specialized expertise of licensed engineers for all structural, electrical, and mechanical systems. This ensures the highest level of safety, performance, and code compliance.

While our engineering consultants are highly skilled and integral members of our project team, we don't simply hand off the engineering aspects. We maintain close communication with our consultants throughout the design process, conducting thorough reviews of their plans to ensure seamless integration with our architectural and interior design. This meticulous review process allows us to identify and address any potential conflicts early on, preventing costly rework during construction. Our involvement guarantees that the engineering solutions not only meet all necessary regulations but also complement and enhance the overall design vision. It's this collaborative and detail-oriented approach that sets SARCO apart and ensures the delivery of a truly exceptional final product.

I see that you offer Virtual Reality, but most other architects don’t.  Is this really necessary?

Consider this analogy: when purchasing a new car, would you make your decision solely based on a catalog or website photos? Most likely, no. You'd want to sit in the driver's seat, experience the feel of the interior, and take it for a test drive to assess its performance and handling. You wouldn't buy a car without experiencing it firsthand.

Now, consider your new home, an investment likely ten times greater than the cost of a car. If Virtual Reality is the equivalent of a test drive for your future residence, is it truly necessary? The answer is a resounding yes. It's priceless. Virtual Reality allows you to walk through your home before it's built, experiencing the spaces, the flow, and the interplay of light and shadow. It's an invaluable tool for understanding the design and making informed decisions. It transforms abstract drawings into a tangible experience, ensuring that your vision is fully realized and that every detail aligns with your expectations. At SARCO, we believe that this level of immersive visualization is not just a luxury; it's an essential part of the design process, ensuring that your dream home becomes a reality.

Our interactive BIMx models offer an even more immersive experience, compatible with readily available technology like Google VR goggles and the cutting-edge Apple Vision Pro. This allows you to explore your future home in stunning detail, experiencing the design as if you were already there. It's a powerful tool for communication and collaboration, ensuring that every member of the project team, including you, has a clear and shared understanding of the design vision.

Give me an example of why I should insist that my architect use BIM

Imagine this common scenario: you're in the midst of construction, and the foreman encounters conflicting information on the plans. Perhaps MEP systems clash with structural elements, preventing proper ducting installation. Or maybe structural components protrude awkwardly from the ceiling. Even worse, imagine a staircase that results in headroom issues. These types of conflicts are far too frequent on construction sites.

By choosing a BIM-expert architectural firm with extensive construction experience, you can significantly mitigate these risks. A detailed 3D BIM model allows us to identify, address, and resolve these design issues during the design phase, not on the construction site. We meticulously review every element, ensuring that all systems are coordinated and that the design is buildable.

This proactive approach translates to significant cost and time savings. By catching potential problems early, we avoid costly rework, delays, and frustration during construction. Our equation is simple:

BIM Expertise + Construction Experience = Superior Designs = Substantial Savings by Eliminating Errors and Downtime. It's an investment that pays for itself many times over.