How We Work.
smbw was founded on the approach to build well and build efficiently. These lessons in strategic pragmatism with modern design inspiration continue with us in our practice today. For 30 years, smbw has built a legacy of mission-driven environments with stewardship of the urban and natural landscape.
At smbw, we craft visionary design through a co-authored process.
Embracing a client-centric view of our work, we understand that your success and functionality drives all aesthetic decisions. We are passionately dedicated to finding unique, progressive solutions that make a lasting impact on your space and users. From visioning to moving in, our design team guides our clients through the process of creating their new space.
At every step, strategy matters
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It all begins with a need, an idea, a vision. We co-author the project goals with our clients through a defined, hands-on process. By combining research, zoning analysis, and program definition, we uncover opportunities rather than validate assumptions, balancing imagination with intent to create a clear, grounded foundation for the design ahead.
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Design begins the translation of the approved concept into an integrated, fully resolved design. We combining expertise and analysis to define systems, performance, and key spaces. Research remains a tool for discovery, uncovering insights that inform decisions and strengthen the design. This phase transforms the project dialogue by bringing confidence as the vision becomes tangible.
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In Project Delivery, we bring the design to life with meticulous oversight of construction, fabrication, and coordination, ensuring every detail aligns with the original vision. We help maintain construction quality through regular site visits, addressing challenges and verifying that installations meet design intent and code requirements.
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In Post- Occupancy, we measure how the design performs in real life. Through surveys, site visits, and back-checks, we revisit the original project goals and evaluate how effectively the space supports them. This process ensures the design meets both functional and experiential objectives, provides actionable insights, and informs future projects.
We immerse ourselves in your business drivers, culture, and goals to become a trusted advisor, guiding decisions as if they were our own.
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Vision
We establish parameters and end user needs to define project vision.
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Design
We engage in workshops as the design unfolds, for concise decision making and project socialization.
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Execution
We close the loop by managing the construction process to ensure the design intent is realized.
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Post Occupancy
From the initial visioning stage to helping you move in, our team is with you each step of the way.
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Concept Development
We established the design concept by clearly defining what the project is and and is not. We align on style and expectations through focused keywords, and translating the client’s core project drivers into a clear design direction.
