At VP Engineering we strive to make the design and construction process smoother, smarter, and more collaborative. One of the ways we do that is by bringing architectural insight directly into our MEP workflow.
While many MEP firms are composed strictly of engineers, we’ve taken a different approach by integrating architectural expertise into our quality control and coordination efforts. This blend of perspectives helps ensure our systems don’t just perform, they support the overall design intent of the building.
Why Add Architectural Insight to an Engineering Team?
Architects and engineers are trained to think differently. Engineers are focused on system performance: making sure HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and low-voltage systems are code-compliant, efficient, and well-integrated. Architects, on the other hand, are trained to consider the entire building holistically: spatial flow, aesthetics, user experience, and how systems affect the feel of a space.
Having someone with architectural training embedded in our team adds a crucial layer of coordination. It brings that “big picture” lens to our technical designs, raising questions like:
- Will this clash with the ceiling design?
- Is there enough clearance to install this system cleanly?
- Will this equipment disrupt the visual flow of a high-impact space?
This kind of foresight ensures our work complements, rather than competes with, the design vision.
The Value for Clients and Design Partners
Architectural oversight of engineering in the design phase allows us to catch potential issues early, long before they show up as RFIs or change orders. It helps us think ahead about things like:
- Thermostat placement that meets accessibility requirements
- Emergency signage that’s both visible and aesthetically integrated
- Mechanical layouts that respect key architectural features like lobby ceilings or clerestory windows
The result? Fewer surprises in the field, better alignment between disciplines, and a project that’s smoother for everyone involved: owners, architects, engineers, and contractors alike.
It’s About Better Design, Not Just Better Systems
Bringing architectural thinking into MEP design isn’t just about avoiding problems. It’s about elevating the outcome. It means our systems don’t just work well, they look and feel right, too. They support the architect’s vision while meeting the builder’s needs and the end user’s expectations.
At VP Engineering, this insight is led by Rachel Joyce, a licensed architect with over two decades of design experience, who now serves in a key quality control and coordination role. Her background helps ensure our engineering solutions are grounded in both technical precision and architectural intent.
It’s not a move every engineering firm makes, but we believe it’s a smart one. And it’s one of the ways we’re helping bridge the gap between design vision and technical execution.
