"To Provide our Clients What Others Do Not...
     Personalized Service, Continuity and Accountability."

RICK Z. SMITH & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS, INC. is a smaller firm. This is our strength. As the head architect of the firm, Rick Z. Smith is personally involved in every aspect of a project from the commencement of programming analysis to the conclusion of construction. It is this hands on, personalized service that sets us head and shoulders above the competition. We strive to develop long term client relationships not just a resume of completed projects.

The Rick Z. Smith & Associates Design Team is attuned to the uniqueness of each client’s and project’s needs and goals. We are pro-active in our determined involvement with both the client and the project. Our mission is to advise the client as well as “listen” to their needs. We place a high priority on listening and understanding the individual goals and requirements of the facility user. The design of the project will be a direct response to this collaborative process that will include all integral members of the design, planning and construction process.

Mr. Smith is the single point of contact with the client and assures the client that their goals and needs are addressed. Because Mr. Smith has been involved in the project since the “programming” stage he has a thorough understanding and knowledge of how the project developed. This enhances his ability to assess and react to individual situations within the project.

We fully understand the importance of effective communication and maintaining a cooperative spirit and relationship with the client, contractor and review agencies. Communication is necessary for the proper implementation of any project. We view communication as a vital link between all parties to the completion of the project. Communication is through clear, concise, and direct correspondence pursued consistently through each and every phase from programming through construction. Effective communication and coordination are very important in safeguarding the project’s time schedule and concept.

Roles are clearly defined but not so rigid that team members will be prevented from contributing in unexpected ways. Team members are encouraged to view each other as resources and creative problems solvers. With this philosophy and approach we can be responsive to the client’s needs and provide them with superior service. It is vital to the success of any project that the team approach be implemented at the time of commencement. These aspects and attributes differentiate us from other firms.