ARCHITECTURE
The RDC/JPA Team has a strong background in VA Medical Center design. We collectively offer expertise in the following important components:
• VA Design Guidelines and Standards, code compliance and regulations such as JCAHO and Joint Commision.
• Sustainable/LEED design.
• Choreographing complex phasing of projects to prevent life safety and security disruption to the critical 24/7 needs of the healthcare environment.
• Careful scheduling and working closely with all consultants to assure smooth project delivery.
• Up-to-the-minute design trends in healthcare including Planetree, Eden Concept, healing environment, bariatric care, and aging population requirements.
• Unique technical requirements.
• Infection control and phasing.
• Efficiency and ergonomics to minimize strain and maximize environment for clinical staff.
• Thorough knowledge of materials, finishes, furnishings & fabrics, acknowledging all aspects of infection control, cleanability, maintenance and durability.
• Working closely with staff, engineering and contractors to develop accurate schedules for the project.
• Knowledge of the set-aside bidding climate, recent bid data and the use of deduct alternates to achieve budget goals.
• Experts in behavioral health spaces and experienced in MHEOCC checklist.
TECHNOLOGY & MODELING
We take pride in being at the cutting edge of the latest technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Autodesk Construction Cloud, laser scanning, virtual reality experiences, and interactive 3D renderings and animations. As a trusted partner of the VA, we have played an active role in shaping BIM standards and reviewing design guides in collaboration with the Central Office of Construction Facility Management's Standards Department.
Laser Scanning - The RDC/JPA team has extensive experience with field survey work and the use of laser scanning to provide a highly accurate account of existing conditions prior to the start of any project. Scanning improves downstream construction and operational outcomes, reducing design errors in the contract documents which equates to fewer corrections in the field. The result is a reduction in project cost overruns, change orders, and project delays.
Virtual Reality - Technology not only allows us to create and coordinate projects to the best of our technical abilities, but RDC/JPA implements that same standard into how we present our designs. In addition to our more traditional rendering and graphic presentations, we have started to create more immersive multi-sensory presentations using virtual reality.
Leveraging Technology for Site Documentation - We have invested heavily in technology so that we may best serve our clients in fluctuating environments and in a variety of situations. Where appropriate, we utilize 360 cameras to document a project site, allowing us to reference site conditions in a remote environment. Coupled with in-person site visits, this tool promotes efficiency and cost-savings for the client. Our 3D renderings also provide clients a unique way to view the end result prior to construction in an interactive way.
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CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
RDC/JPA’s Project Manager and Design Team will be the same professionals from start to finish, ensuring continuity of design intent and execution through the completion of construction. In addition to shop drawing review and responding to contractor RFIs, RDC/JPA will also provide on-site review of construction as requested by the VA. Typically, we attend weekly or bi-weekly construction meetings with the contractors and VA Team. RDC/JPA observes the construction site progress through each milestone to review for general conformance with the drawings. We will carefully document each site visit with photos and comments and electronically distribute field reports to the entire team within two business days of the site visit. This allows us to collaborate with the VA and the contractor to address issues immediately in real time and help to avoid delays. RDC/JPA is very cognizant that delays to the construction schedule cannot be tolerated so timely responses are crucial. We have continuously upgraded our technology tools for field reports and we are currently using Archisnapper to generate instant reports in the field. This software creates onsite field reports using an assortment of hand held devices. It automatically formats and issues field reports much more quickly than previously possible. Issues can also be better documented and relayed to other design team members in a timely manner. RDC/JPA is always available to discuss and assist the VA and contractor team with resolving any issues.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The RDC/JPA interior design team brings extensive knowledge of VA standards and guidelines, ensuring compliance with all relevant codes and regulations. Our interior designers understand healthcare design for both clinical and staff spaces, creating patient-centered, healing environments. Their expertise in space planning, design, and selecting appropriate finishes guarantees functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Utilizing advanced 3D rendering techniques, we provide clear visualizations of designs to clients as needed. The RDC/JPA interior design team excels in resolving design challenges, delivering innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of VA healthcare facilities. With years of experience designing multiple healthcare facilities at different VAs, our team can accommodate each individual facility accordingly.
We are prepared to support the VA interior designer at every stage of the project, offering as much involvement as needed. Our extensive experience in the unique environment of VA facilities and staying up to date with the evolving profession, has equipped our interior designers with the specialized knowledge and understanding essential for success. In addition to the skills, our team’s distinguishing feature is the ability to maintain a high level of patience and professionalism.
MASTER PLANNING
Master Planning is essential for successful site and building designs. This process demands a thorough understanding of how the space will function for future users and the long-term objectives of the client. Our team excels in identifying key metrics that determine a space's functionality and future use, guiding clients through effective long-term planning.We support clients in creating comprehensive plans that define and unify a cohesive vision for the space.
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Establish Goals - During collaborative sessions, our team identifies goals, priorities, and perspectives, aligning with the owner's strategic direction.
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Develop & Refine Solutions - We assess short- and long-term conditions for master planning, followed by facility evaluations in operations, adjacencies, and strategic fit.
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Facility Planning Drivers - Our team collaborates with the client to develop, refine, and analyze strategic master plans and provide high-level financial analysis of proposed solutions.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
The RDC/JPA Team consists of 4 LEED Accredited Professionals. We consistently provide design services on VA Medical Center projects including HVAC Life Cycle Cost Analysis and LEED Energy Modeling Studies to assist the VA in creating facilities that closely incorporate LEED and Green Globes’ requirements. Sustainable design principles are an inherent part of our Team’s design philosophy. We always incorporate sustainability as a matter of professional practice. Our designs emphasize energy conservation through careful consideration and incorporation of renewable energy sources and alternative technologies. We create healthy, user-friendly interior environments that consider indoor air quality, lighting, plumbing, fire protection and life safety needs. We specify recycled, recyclable and reusable materials and make provisions for waste recycling within the facility including heated/chilled air, water and materials. We recognize the VA’s commitment to sustainable design. Members of the RDC/JPA Team have designed 10 projects in accordance with the VA Sustainable Design and Energy Manual. These projects have achieved LEED Certification.
