Our work brings us into relationship with talented people from a broad spectrum of fields and disciplines. When considering a potential building project, however, all face uncertainty and near universal questions: What are our current and future needs? How much will it cost? How long will it take? What are some of the challenges we should expect along the way?

Enter the study.

Concept design for an Early Learning Center in Lebanon, NH

Often referred to as a concept design phase, feasibility study, or planning document, a study offers the ability to objectively define project requirements, examine existing conditions, compare design alternatives and develop budget and funding strategies – all before committing to a lengthy and more costly design effort.

Placework has assisted many of our clients in defining their projects in this way, enabling them to incrementally plan the implementation of a future project without biting off too much at once.

Frequently, a feasibility study precedes a capital or fundraising campaign. It clarifies scope, helps define a budget and can generate the images and messaging necessary to approach potential donors or apply for grants or other funding sources.

Elements of a Study

How does it work?

One example is the work that Placework has done to support the City of Somersworth, NH in planning for the future of an existing building: their unique mid-century public library.

The feasibility study provided:

  • Comprehensive assessment of the existing conditions
  • Analysis of space needs
  • Concept design options
  • Maintenance recommendations
  • Preliminary budget for the project
  • Funding recommendations

Engagement with community – in this case with library and City staff well versed in the challenges expressed by the public – is also a crucial element of a successful feasibility study.  People are much more likely to engage with projects that they understand and to which they are offered an opportunity to express their point of view.  These insights are crucial to providing a design that meets the needs of the whole community.

For Somersworth, having gained a deeper understanding of the building and the City’s needs, a new addition to the existing library emerged as the most appropriate strategy.  The addition holistically resolves accessibility to all levels while providing necessary space for expansion, an improved streetscape, and creation of a prominent and highly functioning children’s area. Placework also advised the City on funding sources and planning for project implementation; the project was recently awarded federal grant funding to allow it to proceed into the design phase.

Through collaboration and creative thinking, the study process allowed the City of Somersworth to better define their needs and arrive at a comprehensive solution to a familiar problem.

Taking the Leap

There is no limit to the scope of a feasibility study, but goals and expectations should be clear to all from the outset. The study might be limited to planning a small renovation or can encompass campus-scale or broader urban planning. It may include regulatory or due-diligence requirements such as environmental or historic assessment, surveys, or other technical tasks.

The cost of a feasibility study can vary based on the needs, but a basic rule of thumb is that the study typically represents less than 1% of the project cost. Not sure what is needed? We can help review and suggest a scope of work tailored to the objectives of our clients.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by unknowns, especially at the outset of a project. We value the study as a way of deepening our understanding of our clients’ needs. It is both a practical analysis and an outlet for creative problem-solving – a chance to re-frame challenges as opportunities.

Check out the results of some of our recent and ongoing studies!