Departure Architecture

Forensic Building Consultants is the brainchild of two people, Matt Smith and Toby White. They responded to a need to assist with the repair of homes and buildings damaged by moisture intrusion, most often caused by defective construction methods and materials. In short order, they became known throughout the region for their skills and knowledge, and were often called upon to be expert witnesses in legal disputes. Demand grew, as did the company and its services, which now include pre-construction design services, construction quality assurance and sustainable building practices. Today, Forensic Building Consultants includes an extended team of building science specialists, working together to provide trusted solutions to architects, property managers, developers, facility managers, homeowners and attorneys. Our purpose is to provide you with Trusted Solutions in the investigation, resolution and prevention of construction related defects and ensuing damage. We apply a holistic approach to the evaluation, design and construction of entire building envelope systems. Years of experience in construction, materials science and green building methods, combined with a commitment to on-time, on-target service, give us an advantage in the building science field. Unlike other companies, Forensic doesn't suggest a 'one and only' approach. Instead, we thoroughly investigate the problem, analyze the overall situation, and then present the best possible solutions. This enables our clients to make an informed decision. Building science is the collection of scientific knowledge that focuses on the physical phenomena affecting buildings. This includes the analysis of building materials and building envelope systems. The purpose of building science is to optimize building performance and understand or prevent building failures. How materials function in part or as a whole determine whether a building's envelope fails or succeeds. If insufficient materials are used, or materials are not applied in correct sequence, moisture can build, creating serious structural damage, and affecting air quality and building safety. Solving these issues requires thorough testing and analysis, and the proposal of trusted solutions. Forensic Building Consultants acts as a bridge between architects and contractors. Forensic provides recommendations and three-dimensional details to help builders sequence materials correctly from the get go, eliminating costly mistakes and future problems. AAMA is recognized for the development of standards that provide third-party validation of product performance and quality in the window, door, skylight, curtain wall and storefront manufacturing industries. ASTM International is one of the largest voluntary standards development organizations in the world-a trusted source for technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services.

Hill Architects is a multi-disciplined design firm with specialized expertise in the master planning and design of destination resorts, hotels, senior living communities, corporate and multi-tenant office buildings, retail, mixed-use, multi-family residential and custom residential projects. While our work exhibits a unifying element of classicism informed by modernist sensibilities, we consciously strive to make each project distinctly responsive to the site, the local and regional context, and our client's objectives.