How long has Ranney Michaels been in business?

Eric Michaels Architects began in 1993. After successfully and seamlessly collaborating on projects together for a number of years, Ranney Michaels was created in 2003. Combined, Sharon Ranney and Eric Michaels share over fifty years of outstanding work in the field of architecture, design and construction.

How is Ranney Michaels different from other architects or contractors?

After studying Design-Build at Harvard University, we transformed our architectural practice to include full construction services. We are an architect led Design-Build Firm. Our goal is to make life easy for our clients by being a full service company. We combine design, architecture and construction, taking out the stress and guess work as we provide our clients with one source of contact and responsibility.

We pride ourselves as principles of the firm as being involved with every aspect of a project to ensure its success according to your terms. What makes Ranney Michaels stand apart, is that we are intimately involved with every detail from design through construction. This method allows our projects to be consistent and cohesive from conception through completion of the minutest of details, ensuring our clients' delight with the final project.

What types of projects does RM specialize in?

The Ranney Michaels partnership creates a dynamic team whose creative and elegant designs include residential projects from new kitchens and baths to interior renovations additions/alterations, historic preservations and custom homes.

Commercial projects vary from medical, dental and corporate offices, to retail establishments and restaurants. We have designed shopping centers as well as automotive dealerships and facilities, always with an eye towards superior design and function.

Will I recover the investment I put into your services?

Absolutely! We find that our projects have increased the values for owners significantly. We have doubled, and even tripled, the total all-in costs for clients' properties. We do this by bringing value to every aspect of the project. We know how to design and build to maximize construction and minimize costs.

Sounds great, how will we work together?

We begin with an investigation of the site and any existing buildings or structures on the property, then review the zoning regulations. Once we have established the building parameters, we begin the design process. We review wish lists and budgeting for the project. We discuss the requirements, style and characteristics that will make the project special and unique. After presenting schematic designs to the Owner, we review and revise the drawings as necessary to satisfy the Owner's requirements. Upon reaching a successful design, we furnish a preliminary bid to verify the construction budget. When the design and budget are in synch, we prepare the necessary drawings and applications to permit the project and begin construction.

What do your Design Services include?

Our Design Services include everything from selection of interior materials and trims to recommendations for tiles, colors and textures. Our services are fully comprehensive. We review all aspects of a project including kitchens, baths, built-ins, custom furniture and lighting design.

When our clients hire us, they hire a team. We view each project from architectural, decorating and construction perspectives. By providing comprehensive design-build services, we ensure that the initial vision remains consistent throughout all aspects of the project.

What do your Construction Services include?

Our building services are fully comprehensive and cover all aspects of the project. From site development through finish carpentry, kitchens and built-ins, our team works directly under our supervision to ensure the finest level of craftsmanship and professionalism.

How long will the process take?

Depending on the size and scope of the project, the process can vary considerably. Is there an existing structure that we are modifying? Maybe the project requires knocking down an existing building or doing site investigations to determine what may be built on the property. Naturally, the process is planned out based on many requirements.

After establishing what can legally be constructed or how the existing building can be modified, we are able to produce schematic designs within thirty days. After developing an approved design and meeting budgetary requirements the Construction process begins.

If I have my own Contractor, will you work as the Architects
for my project?

For those who wish to have their own contractor, Ranney Michaels is pleased to act as the Architect in the traditional Design, Bid and Build scenario. Being so intimately involved with our own construction projects, we understand the building process and thus are able to produce designs and documents that not only produce beautiful buildings, but are also comprehensive and builder friendly.

I don't have much time to spare. How much time will you
need from me?

Depending on your time availability and interest level you can be as involved as you like. We have had clients who wanted to be involved with every material and decision. We also have clients who have said, "We're going away for three months, just do what you do and make it beautiful" and were extremely pleased with the outcome.

It's really up to you to determine your schedule; we are happy to work around your availability and interest level.

Why will I like working with RM?

First and foremost, you'll find that in addition to our expertise, you'll like our down-to-earth personalities and sense of humor. We take great pride in our work, but also in the relationships we've created with our clients over the years, both residential and commercial.

Because this is a creative process with potential for stress and frustration during construction, it's important to have a team that you enjoy speaking with guiding you through the process. It's crucial to be able to speak to your architect/design-build team in a way that makes it enjoyable, while getting things done.

We are that team, and as you get to know us, you'll see how much this makes a difference in the outcome of the project.

Can I contact some of your former clients to see what it's like
to work with you?

Absolutely, in fact, we encourage it! The best references for our work are from our countless ecstatic past clients. When you're ready, please contact us so we may refer the appropriate client and similar project type to suit your needs. You'll hear direct from the source why it's important to work with us.

OK, I'm ready to get started. How shall I contact you?

Sounds great! Simply give us a call at 203.221.3005 to schedule an initial consultation or email us at sharon@ranneymichaels.com. or eric@ranneymichaels.com

We'll invite you to meet with us in our Westport, CT office or we can schedule to meet at your location, whichever you prefer.

I have a couple of additional questions before wanting to get started. Can I call you?

Yes, absolutely! Feel free to call us anytime at 203.221.3005. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have. You can also e-mail us at sharon@ranneymichaels.com. Or eric@ranneymichaels.com.

Once we've answered your questions and you're ready to begin, we will schedule a get acquainted consultation to meet in person and see how
we can help.

Sharon Ranney & Eric Michaels
Ranney Michaels Architects
6 Sconset Square
Westport, CT 06880
T. 203.221.3005