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About

Meeting our client’s project goals through design solutions that achieve harmony of function, aesthetics, quality, budget and schedule is the guiding principle of CPZ Architects, Inc.

Founded in 2002 as an S Corporation by Chris P. Zimmerman, AIA, the firm offers the full range of planning and architectural services, managed with the personal attention of the firm’s founder on every project from start to finish.  We are a Broward County CBE firm with a local staff of 10 employees, 3 of which are registered Architects.  This commitment to client satisfaction has built more than 20 long-term client/CPZ relationships and a reputation for superior, responsive client service.

Mr. Zimmerman brought to his firm the unique perspective of both architect and owner.  Through his prior experience as principal of an architectural firm and earlier as senior architect with the City of Fort Lauderdale, he brings a distinctly client-oriented point of view, coupled with architectural expertise and project management efficiency, to each CPZ project.

Responsive Design.  CPZ Architects’ design approach centers on the philosophy, proven by experience, that even the most basic building can be designed to provide an economical, innovative and award-winning solution.

Toward this end, we work in full collaboration with our client to achieve the optimum design solution and desired project results.  This collaboration begins with a clear understanding of and commitment to our client’s vision, goals and objectives.  We listen to our clients.  We approach each project with our passion for creativity, technical expertise, commitment, and proven experience.

Functionality, image, and quality requirements are balanced with budgetary and schedule parameters.  We focus on value-based design for maximum operational efficiencies and minimum maintenance needs. This focus on value includes a commitment to sustainability. CPZ and our consultants incorporate sustainable design strategies into every project.  Our collaborative approach continues throughout project development to ensure that selected options are in accord with all client requirements.

The results of this approach are seen in the success of the diverse designs of the firm, from public safety complexes to parks and recreational facilities that foster pride in the communities they serve.   Our integrated approach considers not only the whole building and its many parts, but also its contribution to the environment in which it sits.  We continually strive for design excellence, transforming our clients’ vision into a striking expression of their mission and principles – delivered on time and in budget with value added each step of the way. 

Effective Project Management.  Communication and coordination are key elements in CPZ Architects’ approach to project management.

On every project, we implement a three-pronged approach to managing the effective and efficient execution of our client’s project:  (1) Our principal-in-charge, Mr. Zimmerman, participates in every project, providing oversight and ensuring quality of services provided.  (2)  Our Quality Control Manager, Mr. Robert Wunsch, coordinates with all staff to assure completion of well-detailed and coordinated construction documents using the latest in computer technology; and (3) in-depth project team review meetings are held at each phase of the project, with client participation, to ensure a well-coordinated project.

CPZ serves as the project team’s single point of contact for all client communications.  The engineering and other professional consultants are chosen for their direct experience and expertise for the specific project.  Each shares CPZ’s philosophy and commitment to thoroughly coordinated projects.

The result is a record over the last 5 years of obtaining competitive bids within 5% of the client’s construction budget, and a change order rate for design changes of less than 8%.

Sustainable Design.  Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (L.E.E.D.) is practiced daily on all our design projects. We have many LEED projects in various stages of the Certification, from certified to just starting. One of our latest projects is the construction of an Ecological Resort in the Florida Everglades which is seeking Platinum Certification. The project will be a hotel and learning center that is sustainable and impacts the land as little as possible and in many instances improves the surrounding land.

Building Lasting Relationships.  We strive to not only meet, but exceed our client’s expectations at all levels.  Our goal is a project that our clients, their community, and we can be proud of.

Our clients appreciate our ready accessibility, immediate response, and quick problem resolution.  Personal attention – to client needs, the details of design documents, innovative solutions, and team coordination – is the hallmark of CPZ Architects’ professional practice.

As testament to our professionalism, design quality, and dedicated service, we take pride in our record of repeat work for multiple clients – a 75% repeat client rate.