Lewallen Architecture, LLC

"Jim is right about many things in his assessment of the project. There are also some important missing elements. It is true the project got off to a late start, the market was heating up and construction workers were in demand. Once it gets started in earnest Covid hit screwing up everyone schedule. Exacerbating the problem was the bid was done early on and was on the low side (which Jim admitted). With Covid in full swing, construction prices (labor and material) started to rise then skyrocket. We asked for a change order to keep in line with the rising prices, Jim refused. The project was completed with Jim paying for some of the final invoices, we did continue working on the project paying some of the invoices. The completed project by all standards was done with quality and below what it would cost if bid out today. We are now in discussion about some of the expenses. It cannot be emphasized enough that the design was successful and matched the program. The construction was completed by our team and subcontractors. This was a project that got off on the wrong foot and staggered to a finish. Covid and the mayhem of regulations and the rising cost of everything along with a lob bid were not managed correctly. Jim and Susan are very good people who deserved a better showing from us. We have revamped our management to ensure that money and schedule are communicated more precisely. It cannot be emphasized enough the project has been completed with a budget very difficult to duplicate today. Passenger elevator, extensive lighting/electrical, casework, special soundproofing, acoustic windows, extensive tile work, etc."

"After 30 years, i finally had one of those clients. We went all the way through the design and document phase, measured house, build 3d model, and full design docs for the project. The clients were repeatably told their budget was 50% of what was required to meet their goals.. Contractors were brought in to evaluate and explain... Much more to the story.."