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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


Below are commonly asked questions about Studio A and how we work.





DO I NEED AN ARCHITECT?

The Oklahoma Statute 59 OS 46.21b specifies which building types will require an Architect based on the IBC building code use group. Some small occupancies and residential uses do not require an architect per the State Statute, however, local authorities may require an Architect where the State Architectural Act does not.

In summary, while there are some cases an architect’s seal is not required it is always beneficial to consult an architect to ensure your project meets your needs and complies with local building and zoning codes.



HOW DO YOU CALCULATE FEES?

There are a few standard ways to calculate architectural fees:
  • Percent of construction cost
  • Hourly rates
  • Fixed fee

At Studio A we commonly use fixed fees. This means the total cost for our services is agreed upon at the beginning of the project and doesn’t change based on the final construction cost. We take care to clearly define the scope of work and project budget early in the process to minimize the need for additional fees due to undefined scope of work.



WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVE?

Studio A is based in Oklahoma City and primarily serves the OKC metro area. However, we’ve completed projects throughout the state and are open to working anywhere in Oklahoma.



WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS DO YOU WORK ON?

We primarily focus on small to midscale commercial and multifamily projects.



WHAT ARE YOUR TIMELINES LIKE?

Timelines can vary depending on the size, scope, and complexity of each project. At Studio A, we prioritize clear communication and realistic scheduling.

For typical projects:
  • Initial consultations and proposals usually take 1–2 weeks.
  • Design phases (pre-design through construction documents) can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on project scale and client response time.
  • Permitting and construction timelines are influenced by city review processes and contractor availability.

We’ll work with you early on to develop a project-specific timeline and keep you informed every step of the way to avoid surprises and delays.



WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM ME AS AN OWNER?

We believe collaboration and open dialogue are at the root of great projects. At Studio A, we guide you every step of the way, but your input and engagement are essential. 

Here is what we typically ask of Owners during the design process: 
  • Share your vision and goals early and openly so we can align our work with your priorities.
  • Be available for key meetings and reviews so we can keep the project moving forward. 
  • Provide timely feedback on design decisions, materials, etc. so we can stay on schedule.
  • Communicate changes or concerns as soon as they arise. The sooner we know the easier it is for us to accommodate necessary changes. 
  • Trust the process! We will walk you through it, but design always involves exploration, iteration and refinement.



WHAT IS THE DESIGN PROCESS LIKE?

The design process can look slightly different for every project depending on project requirements and goals, but below is a glimpse into how the design process typically unfolds:

PROGRAMMING
Listening deeply. We begin by understanding your needs, goals, and aspirations. This is the foundation of everything that follows.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN
This is where the big ideas emerge. We explore form, space, and relationships through sketches, diagrams, and early models.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
We refine the vision, coordinate with engineers and consultants, and make sure the project is both inspiring and feasible.

DOCUMENTATION
Detailed drawings and specifications turn vision into instructions, guiding construction and permitting.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
We stay involved on-site, ensuring the design is executed as intended and adapting thoughtfully to real-world conditions.



WHAT TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY DO YOU USE?

At Studio A, we use Revit and collaborative BIM (Building Information Modeling) practices to streamline design, improve coordination, and reduce costly surprises during construction. Our Principal and Founder, Avery Slavin Copeland, taught Revit courses in college and served as a BIM Lead before founding Studio A, so strong BIM practices are ingrained in how we work.

Every team member at Studio A is actively involved in BIM, from our principals to our student interns. We believe that integrating BIM across all levels of our team ensures consistency, quality, and collaboration throughout the design and construction process.

For you as an owner, BIM means:
  • Better visualization of your project before it's built
  • More accurate drawings and documentation
  • Improved coordination with engineers and consultants
  • Fewer change orders and construction delays
  • More efficient facility management after construction

In short, BIM helps us deliver a more informed, accurate, and cost-effective project right from the start.


CONTACT
Avery Slavin Copeland, RA
avery@studioa-llc.com
405.609.4306

629 W Main St Suite 232
Oklahoma City, OK 
73102


       

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