Why You Should Consider Hiring a Cannabis Architect

Cannabis ArchitectDesigning a cannabis cultivation facility is difficult. Many cannabis startups become lost in the maze of zoning laws, special permits, design options, building codes, contractor selection, construction processes, systems commissioning, and building occupancy. Each cannabis grow operation is unique, and no two building projects are identical – so there’s no single path to navigate the maze.

Architects are licensed professionals who have the education, training, experience, and the vision to guide you through the entire process – from initial schematic concepts all the way through construction completion. Architects specializing in cannabis will help you define what you want to grow, how you want to grow, and then shape a custom-tailored building for you.

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Architects see the big picture. They orchestrate consultants and contractors to balance thousands of details with the big picture. A building doesn’t just need walls and a roof – there are myriad factors like site topography, structural systems, plumbing, mechanical systems, electrical design, finishes, equipment … the list goes on. Cannabis cultivation facilities are particularly complex controlled environments and must meet the functional needs of both plants and people.

How Do You Start?

Cannabis cultivation projects begin with wants and needs:

“I want to grow 10,000 square feet of cannabis canopy.” Or “We need to figure out how big of a building can fit on this property.”

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A cannabis architect will collect your design criteria through an intentional Programming Phase. For cultivation facilities, this would be information like business objectives, key performance indicators (KPIs), horticultural process narratives, types of rooms, and the flow of plants and personnel. This information serves as a fundamental reference guide that defines the design of the facility.

And Then What?

Following the initial Programming Phase, an architect will work with you to refine and adjust the program. This is the Schematic Design phase. At this stage, multiple engineers are brought onboard.

  • Structural engineers to evaluate your building (if it’s an existing structure) and analyze its load bearing capacities.
  • Mechanical engineers to translate your design criteria into heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and dehumidification needs.
  • Electrical engineers to estimate the amount of power your building will need.
  • Plumbing engineers to design water distribution systems for people’s needs as well as the plants’ needs.
  • Other engineers that might be required for things like acoustic mitigation, odor control, fertigation design, and manufacturing process systems.

Following Schematic Design, your cannabis architect will guide the project through the Design Development phase. Project drawings will be enhanced with more specificity and details. At the end of design development, the interior and exterior design of the building will be complete and ready for your approval to proceed with Construction Documents.

The Construction Documents phase is a significant portion of the architect’s work and fees. At this phase, the technical design is finalized to incorporate all architectural components with the various engineers’ systems.

Am I Ready to Build?

Construction can only begin with approval from various authorities having jurisdiction. The architects submit drawings for review by inspectors and commissioners, and cannabis projects are closely scrutinized. Prior to receiving a building permit, cannabis projects typically require special permit approvals from zoning boards and planning boards. The design process is complex enough, and the approvals process can be another complicated maze to navigate.

Are We There Yet?

The construction phase is exciting. Concrete is pouring, steel is welded, screws are zipping, nails are pounded – the project leaps from plans on paper and becomes a kinetic construction of an actual building. An architect will continue to work with you to observe progress, review submittals from the builder, and help steer the design through to completion.

There are many other components to explore in between the stages summarized above. For example, architects can also help you select the right builder, and architects can save you money through proper designs and material selections.

Find Your Architect

Designing and constructing a building is a complicated process. Cannabis cultivation facilities are no exception. This process is a journey; some people find it messy and unpleasant, while others find it exhilarating. The architect you hire should look out for your interest – they should find ways to make your life easier and guide you to success.

Every cannabis architect has their own characteristics and methods – so it’s important to find an architect who understands your style and needs. Think critically about your business goals and your building needs. What activities will happen in your building? What’s your budget? Where is the location? Start a list of all your needs and wants, and then reach out to a number of architects and begin a conversation. Don’t worry if you don’t have all of the answers – the right architect will help you clarify your goals.

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