The way of the future in terms of interior finish-outs may be collaborative ventures with more than a casual commitment to transparency. Open Book Design-Build Contracts offer a way to bring together clients, contractors and architect/designers at the project outset in an effort to keep costs low and also reduce construction time.
Instead of hiring an architect or designer to develop conceptual plans for interior finish out, and following the traditional path through bidding and build out, a firm would assemble a team—at the very outset of the project—consisting of designer/architect, contractor and designated project manager or construction supervisor.
It's a way to save time and money by gathering a creative team at the very beginning.
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Almost half of Minneapolis is characterized as a "food desert," with little access to fresh produce and healthy food. But a new farming method goes right to the heart of the problem; Aquaponics is not only a unique method of growing fish and food together, but a viable new business model in cities throughout the country. In Minnesota alone, there are more than 40 young aquaponic companies; and they love relocating to old factories and warehouses.
Much has been written about the changing corporate culture, relating to company policies that have been altered to attract and retain talented new employees. More than ever before, the needs—in terms of job satisfaction and personal growth—are now being addressed. From factory to high-rise office, business life is a lot more than base pay and benefits.