Things we LOVE: Build.com

As we move through the design phases of a project it becomes necessary to start specifying actual products, typically this happens when we are in the Design Development stage of a project.  When we work with a Client’s Interior designer, we typically just put together a “shopping list” for them to fill in and provide the necessary information. The shopping list templates that we use in our office are generated from EntreArchitect’s standard documents template package which is available for purchase.

Sample Project Shopping List for Appliances. We typically issue shopping lists for appliances, plumbing fixtures, plumbing accessories, and decorative lighting.

A lot of times, however, as a full-service architectural firm, we generate this list of specifications for Client approval.

Enter Build.com (Build with Ferguson)

No matter who is specifying the appliances and fixtures, a shopping list is generated. When we are in charge of putting together the preliminary specifications, a great place to start is build.com because they allow us to shop multiple manufacturers, filter our searches, and assign the selections to a project.

Let’s shop for shower faucets…

I like shopping by room…
We can filter our search further by selecting the fittings we need, the brands we love, the color/finish we want, and here in California by the flow rate to meet our code requirements (a very helpful function!).
Once we select an option, it’s easy to add it to a project!
I can now organize all of my selections by room, fixture type, options to be reviewed, etc, and then export an image portfolio, email my cart, or download all the specification sheets for the total project or by a specific category! Can someone say game changer??
Sample Project Portfolio. The simplicity of the images with minimal item information makes it easy to review the Client to get feedback.

Now, online shopping DOES NOT replace the need to see products in person… it’s a good thing that there is a Ferguson showroom close to us so that we can go on a Hayne Field Trip…

Find a showroom in your area and go shopping!

After specifications are complete, we need to get them into our Revit model… but that’s a story for another post…

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