Forget about value engineering. New-order thinking puts lean design on the map

The kiss of death for the architects who bring visionary design to luxury residential real estate and for the buyers who appreciate it…is the time-worn process of value engineering. Sigh. Nothing makes extraordinary architecture more mundane than the tedious, cost-driven process of squeezing every refined detail and bespoke material from a project, reducing the beautiful to banal.

But what if you started from a different place?

Just imagine the possibilities if you begin with elegant, sophisticated simplicity in mind — and a commitment to eliminating waste — rather than relying on a cost-cutting process that comes into play quite late in the design process, leading to some of the best parts of the design being abandoned. And the product that results is superior when it comes to aesthetics, innovative planning and enhanced amenities.

As a methodology, Lean Design was formalized within the automobile manufacturing sector and once it took hold, became a model for adapting its tools and principles to logistics and distribution, services, retail, healthcare, architecture and construction and beyond. Lean Design isn’t about skipping necessary steps or leaving out important information; instead, it identifies what adds value and eliminates what does not. In other words, "Lean" is the contemporary language that addresses how the most forward-thinking industries continue to innovate and remain relevant.

In today’s residential real estate development, we can see Lean Design in action. It relies on a rigorous collaborative process that involves key development team members collaborating with architects, general contractors, trades and suppliers. The goal is to optimize design efficiency and effectiveness for increased sales velocity at the best possible profit margins. Lean Design never cheapens the product or reduces its value; instead, it increases the focus on delivering what prospective buyers are willing to pay for.

The Role of Trades and Suppliers in the Lean Design Process
In order to adopt a Lean Design mindset, it’s critical to have trades and suppliers involved from the initial stages of design. By creating a working environment that is collaborative, open and transparent, the development team, including the architects, can have critical input about framing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, etc.

Lean Design Construction Documents
Creating a seamless Lean Design experience in a project relies upon creating and maintaining construction documents that reflect Lean Design principles. They are the ultimate vehicle to create the most compelling and marketable residences possible.

With lean construction documents as a roadmap — drawings that are complete, accurate and reflect the input of knowledgeable trade partners — it is possible to deliver current, fresh design, enhanced amenities and refined details. And by reducing direct construction costs, you can maintain optimal sales pricing without sacrificing profit margin.

Interested in learning more about Lean Design? The @properties Development Group is happy to share our knowledge and experience on your next project!