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Consulting / Advisory Expertise

Code, accessibility, and senior living — aligned from day one.

Steven H. Ruiz, AIA, NCARB provides high-level advisory services to owners, developers, operators, and design teams focused on building codes, accessibility, and senior living environments. As Architect of Record for over 400 projects, his work integrates building codes, life safety requirements, accessibility standards, and the Facilities Guidelines Institute (FGI) to align design, operations, and licensing.

Architectural Peer Review & Code Analysis

Independent peer review and strategic code analysis of architectural permit and construction documents — helping identify potential issues before permitting, bidding, or construction. Backed by experience as Architect of Record on over 400 projects. Project-type specialties include Senior Living, Multi-Family Residential, Affordable Housing, Mixed-Use, Renovation & Conversion, and Adaptive Reuse of existing buildings.

Modern multi-story senior living community
Independent, peer-level review of drawings and code intent — a second set of eyes before submission.

What This Service Provides

  • Building code compliance — IBC, IEBC, NFPA 101
  • Accessibility — ADA, FHA, UFAS, ICC A117.1, PROWAG, FGI guidelines
  • Construction type and fire-resistance strategy
  • Means of egress and life safety systems
  • Coordination between drawings and code intent
  • Identification of potential permitting issues

Where Value is Delivered

  • Early identification of potential code and accessibility conflicts
  • Reduced redesign and permitting delays
  • Improved clarity for AHJ and Fire Marshal reviews
  • Additional quality control prior to submission or construction
  • Support for design teams navigating complex code requirements
  • Independent perspective informed by extensive AOR experience

Typical Review Phases

  • Schematic Design
  • Design Development
  • Permit Submission
  • Construction Documents
  • Pre-Bid / Pre-Construction

Approach

Reviews are tailored to the specific project type, jurisdiction, and phase. The focus is not simply identifying deficiencies, but helping teams align code strategy, accessibility, and project goals early. When differing interpretations arise, the approach emphasizes establishing a defensible code path and practical solutions that satisfy regulatory intent while supporting owner and project goals — reducing risk and supporting smoother delivery before issues become costly during permitting or construction.

Experience

Licensed in 25+ states (some may require re-authorization)
Architect of Record for 400+ projects nationwide and in Canada
Over 40 years specializing in building codes and senior living environments
Advisor on projects throughout the U.S. and internationally
Recognized resource for developers, operators, architects, and code officials

Get in touch

To discuss a project or learn more about these services, contact Access Green Design Group.

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