Site-Built Versus Prefabricated: Choosing a Park Building Construction Method

The city may have a grand scheme for a new park but transforming that vision into reality requires accurate project details. Before the construction process can begin, authorities must have realistic estimates of costs. Landscape designers need building specifications. Contractors require drawings they can confidently estimate.

When these items arrive late, even a well-designed project may be subject to changes, budget concerns, or procurement delays. Finding a reliable partner for design and supply earlier could make a big difference in the planning of public restrooms.

Image credit: romtec.com

The first drawing is needed to finance construction, not for building.

A lot of public recreation projects begin well before budgets for construction is approved. The park department could be in the process of preparing a grant proposal, developing a capital improvement plan or requesting the approval of local officials. A design concept for the building as well as an accurate estimate of cost could help the decision-makers know what’s involved in the proposed project.

Romtec offers initial estimates and designs with no cost upfront, helping owners in the initial planning phases. The team of project managers can investigate various construction options and construction materials prior to committing to the final design and construction technique.

Creative Freedom Needs Support Technically

Landscape architects favor park structures to be constructed in a manner to complement the surrounding, not resemble a generic utility structure. A lakeside area could require unique exterior finishes, while an athletic facility in the community might require well-organized restrooms and concessions facilities.

Finding the best park building designer for these projects requires looking beyond beautiful renderings.

The designer or the person involved in the process of construction must also be knowledgeable about construction material, codes for building and accessible layouts. Romtec offers design-build technical assistance for landscape architects, while providing flexibility with regards to the architectural style, color, and construction configurations. The collaboration preserves the desired design while segregating the concept from the actual construction.

In the Bid Package, good ideas can be built

Contractors need more information than just a visual concept to make a solid bid. They require clear construction information, material specifications and drawings.

The best park restroom designers recognize that documentation is essential to moving a project from planning into procurement.

Romtec provides design drawings as well as renderings, specifications and other drawings for inclusion in bid packages. After project acceptance, engineered plans and supporting submittals help advance the process of construction. Documentation coordination is vital for public owners to reduce confusion about what they are expecting from contractors.

Prefabricated doesn’t always mean better

One of the major differences when it comes to park construction is the way the building is delivered on-site. Some prefabricated structures are delivered in large part assembled. Romtec typically employs a different approach: it offers construction materials kits and plans for building on the project site.

Site-built construction is a way to build custom architectural features, and is constructed with materials used by local contractors. Romtec can also support partial prefabrication and tilt-up construction.

The best park restroom builder for a specific project must be able explain the best construction technique for its style, location and budget rather than automatically suggesting one strategy.

Keep the Project Team Connected

The creation of public parks requires several parties, each with their own responsibilities. Landscape architects develop the broader site vision. Engineers are responsible for technical requirements. Owners should take into account funding, approvals and long-term operations. Contractors are responsible in the building process.

Not needed revisions may be triggered due to the lack of communication between the groups. Romtec can help with projects by providing design documentation, material, and turnkey installation options. This helps coordinate the design requirements and the bigger developments.

The company’s knowledge extends beyond restrooms and concessions buildings to include pavilions, shelters and other structures for public recreation.

Early coordination is the key to a successful start

Before they cause expensive changes, it’s best to deal with the details of construction prior to becoming an issue. Owners must confirm expectations for design comprehend proposed construction techniques, and establish document requirements but the construction project can be flexible.

A beautiful park structure is important, but just the appearance of a building doesn’t guarantee its successful implementation.

If creative thinking in architecture is backed up with clear specifications and coordinated construction planning and supported by engineering that meets real requirements, then communities will be better able to construct public facilities that accomplish their goals and also to provide services for many years.

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