A global authority on fire, electrical and life safety that develops codes and standards and offers training and resources.
The National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, describes itself as a global authority on fire, electrical and life safety. Its website explains that it develops codes and standards together with experts and offers membership, training and resources. In everyday projects, its standards influence things like exits, fire separations, alarms, sprinklers and electrical safety, so owners and builders in Nashville often hear about them during design and review.
We are an independent firm and are not part of the NFPA. We plan exits, separations and other life safety features to the rules your jurisdiction applies, and we coordinate with fire protection and electrical engineers where a project calls for them. Fire officials and building officials decide what is acceptable on your project, and we prepare clear drawings and notes that show how each requirement is met.
Visit the official NFPA website
A broad focus on protecting people and property.
Developed with experts and widely referenced.
Material for professionals and the public.
Common topics in building design.
Often required by size and use.
Officials confirm what applies.
Retail and Showroom DesignStores, boutiques and showrooms designed to draw people in, show products well and keep staff efficient.Explore 
Church and Worship Space DesignSanctuaries, chapels and fellowship halls with good sound, light, flexible rooms and welcoming entries.Explore 
Permit Drawing SetsThe drawings and forms your city needs to review a project, prepared clearly so review goes smoothly.Explore 
Zoning Variance and Rezoning SupportDrawings and materials to ask for a variance, special exception or rezoning, with clear explanations for boards and…Explore 
Historic Commission and Design Review ApprovalsApplications and drawings for historic and design review boards, prepared to meet their guidelines.Explore 
Submittal and RFI ReviewReviewing the product submittals and builder questions that come up during construction, quickly and clearly.Explore 
Project ManagementCoordinating the schedule, team, budget and decisions on a project so nothing falls between the cracks.Explore Plan a lot, pick a style or ballpark a budget.
Lot Setback and Buildable Area PlannerEnter lot size, setbacks and coverage limits to see a rough buildable area. Always confirm real limits with the city.Try it 
Architectural Style PickerAnswer a few questions about your taste, site and lifestyle to see which home styles usually fit and what to look at next.Try it 
Architecture Project Budget PlannerPick a project, set the size and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for design and building. Placeholder values only.Try it Rules depend on the type and size of the building and local requirements. We check them for your project.
Local fire and building officials review and decide. We prepare the drawings that show compliance.
No. We are an independent architecture firm and are not part of the NFPA. We explain what it publishes in plain language and help you apply it to your own project.
ResourceAIAA professional organization for architects and design professionals that publishes research, advocacy and resources on design and practice.Learn more ResourceNCARBA national council of architectural registration boards that publishes competency standards and tools for exploring requirements across jurisdictions.Learn more ResourceICCA nonprofit that develops model building codes and offers training, resources and product evaluation for building safety.Learn more ResourceUSGBCA nonprofit that promotes sustainable building practices and publishes the LEED rating system for green buildings.Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will look at your property, talk through ideas and give you a clear written estimate.
