Veterans Plaza
Adding to the success of retail Tokarski Millemann Architect’s portfolio, they have been selected to design a new shopping center for a repeat client in Jackson, New Jersey. Last year construction was completed on the nearby Liberty Commons Plaza, which has quickly reached full tenant occupancy. Isle 9 grocery store leased one of the three… read more
2023 Funding Opportunities Improving NJ Schools
In 2023, there are exciting new opportunities for funding school facilities projects in New Jersey. The New Jersey Schools Development Authority (NJSDA) and the New Jersey Department of Education have announced a $350 million grant program for Regular Operating Districts, signed into law by Governor Murphy on June 30, 2022. This program offers the chance… read more
Energy Efficiency Programs Cover Costs in NJ
Energy efficiency is now more crucial than ever. There are many ways to reduce energy costs and ecological footprint through modern systems for your facilities located in New Jersey. Best of all, government programs are available to fully cover an initial energy audit. The subsequent energy savings plan, design, and construction costs are funded by… read more
10 Things to Avoid on your Commercial Project – Item #10 Lawsuits
Lawsuits are no fun for anyone involved, except for, perhaps, the lawyers. They are a huge vacuum of time, money and emotional energy and are best avoided. Litigation can be avoided in most instances. Good communication is the key to any vital relationship. Good, clear and concise documentation (such as AIA Construction Agreements) is… read more
10 Things to Avoid on Your Commercial Project – Item #9: Building the Wrong Team
Construction is a team sport. Picking the wrong team is not going to win the game and it will likely go into overtime. A great football team is always led by a greater quarterback. When it comes to construction, your architect is your quarterback. An architect is the only team member who has the training… read more
10 Things to Avoid on your Commercial Project – Item #8: Wrong Agreement/Contract
The wrong agreement or contract is a pitfall to avoid in any transaction, but especially in construction. Never, never, ever let a contractor provide you with an agreement to sign. An initial proposal and bid are fine, but not a contract. These types of agreements are inevitably written to protect the contractor and their interests,… read more
10 Things to Avoid on your Commercial Project – Item #7: Wrong Contractor
Selecting the right contractor for your project is an essential key to a successful project! Selecting the wrong contractor (like choosing the wrong spouse) can make your life “Hell on Earth.” Why? Essentially, you will be “married” to that person (company) for a year or more and will have to live the rest of your… read more
10 Things to Avoid on Your Commercial Project – Item #6: Unrealistic Schedule
We all want things to happen yesterday, however, when it comes to designing and building a structure, setting an unrealistic schedule (a very short timeline) can yield disastrous consequences in every phase of the project. Let’s start with design: rushing your design professionals can lead to mistakes on the construction documents from missing design elements,… read more
10 Things to Avoid on Your Commercial Project – Item #5: Unrealistic Budget
We all cringe when we hear that word. It has a negative connotation in our society due to its association with having to cut back in order to stay solvent. However, in the design process, “the budget” is your friend. Establishing a budget usually comes after the “wish list.” After all, we want what we… read more
10 Things to Avoid on Your Commercial Project – Item #4: Zoning Issues
A crucial piece of the puzzle is zoning. It’s a puzzle because each town has its own rules (and definitions) when it comes to regulating land use. You will want to know if your proposed use is allowable on the property you plan to develop. If not, a variance process may allow you to develop… read more