Assessing Your Needs

Before setting off to find a building, you and/or your group must inventory and clarify your studio space needs. This research is essential for the identification of appropriate buildings. In addition to saving time and energy, you will be more likely to be treated as a serious buyer by real estate brokers, seller and financiers.

Cooperation and flexibility are keys to making a project successful, so this initial process of building a consensus of the groups needs will serve as a good test of the group’s ability to work together. The following questionnaire may assist you in focusing on your particular spatial, financial and location needs:

Questionnaire for artist needs

1. Art Medium?

2. What kind of studio space do you need? Live/work? Workspace only?

3. How much space do you need (or can afford) at an annual cost of (including utilities): $7psf_____, $8psf_____, $9_____, $10_____, $11______, $12_______

4. What is the maximum amount of cash that you can come up with as a downpayment within the next 6months_____? 8 Months_____? 12 Months_____?

5. How is your credit rating?

5. How important are the following features (on a scale of 1-low to 5-high)?

• Freight elevators
• Loading docks
• High ceilings(specify)
• Good light ( specify sun orientation)
• Wood floors
• Upper story location
• Basement location
• Access to public transportation
• Parking
• Specific neighborhood/community
• Access to shopping
• Access to special utilities

6. List any special needs (e.g. kiln, concrete floor, special machinery).