Contractors, letter from Eero Saarinen & Associates to J. Irwin Miller
1955-01-24
Eero Saarinen & Associates
M003-I-a-B1F2
Item details
1955-01-24
IdentifierMHG_Ia_B001_f002_048-049
correspondence
SubjectsMiller House (Columbus, Ind.)
Geographic LocationColumbus (Ind.)
CopyrightThis collection is accessible under an assertion of fair use for purposes of research, education, and scholarship. Some items in this collection may be protected by copyright law (Title 17, U.S.C.). Transmission or reproduction of materials protected by copyright beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of copyright owners. Responsibility of their use rests entirely on the individual. The Indianapolis Museum of Art does not own copyright to these materials, however, the IMA has made every effort to provide accurate information about the copyright holder whenever possible. The IMA is eager to hear from any copyright owners so the IMA can provide the appropriate information to interested researchers. If you have information please contact the Indianapolis Museum of Art Archives, 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46208 or archives@imamuseum.org.
January 24, 1955
Mr. Irwin Miller
301 Washington
Columbus, Indiana
Dear Irwin:
Kevin and I thought it might be a good idea for me to assume the responsibility of checking up on the contractors mentioned in your letter of January 10.
I have been in touch with Al Wermuth as you suggested. He would like to bid on your house but he has nothing going on nearby and cannot compete with local bidders. He has asked to be excused.
Concerning the three contractors mentioned in your letter, I asked Tom Dorste to check on them for us. I also asked him to suggest others who could build a contemporary house from architect's plans. I am enclosing a copy of his letter which, I am sure, you will find interesting and enlightening.
After carefully reviewing Tom's letter we are inclined to agree with his theories about 'Designer-Builders'. Our past experience bears this out because normally we find the most satisfactory results are obtained from builders accustomed to working for architects. Designer-Builders usually find it difficult, if not impossible, to cooperate whole-heartedly.
I would advise against Swiggett and Sons. I fear there would be too many problems brought about by his non-union operation.
We suggest that in addition to the two local contractors you invite Lawrence Dain and W.R. Dunkin and Son, Inc. The Simmons Company may really try when they see the plans. Actually four bidders should be enough even if Simmons doesn't try.
Finally, there is a matter of separate contracts on the mechanical and electrical trades. As you already know, we prefer to include everything under one general contract. However, we also know that separate contracts will be somewhat cheaper at the time of bidding. However, our experience on your bank has convinced us
Mr. Irwin Miller
January 24, 1955
page 2
that the single contract is best, in spite of the apparent lower basic contract prices. Bill Linde is convinced that poor coordination, the resultant loss of time and other intangible costs have taken a heavy toll on the early cost differential. The only extra cost we cannot deny is the ¾% tax.
After you have had an opportunity to study this information, we will welcome your comments.
Sincerely,
EERO SAARINEN AND ASSOCIATES
JOSEPH N. LACY
JNL:rw
Enc.
Content Disclaimer and Usage Rights
Metadata about Newfields’ Archives collections comes from Newfields’ records and research. In some cases, information may be incomplete and research is ongoing. Newfields’ goal is to have as up-to-date metadata as possible, therefore, this information is subject to change. Newfields collections’ metadata is available under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) waiver, which allows for re-use without legal restrictions.
The content the image file(s) above may be in copyright or have other legal and/or cultural restrictions to their use. For clarity, Newfields does not claim copyright to the image files created by Newfields of materials in Newfields Archives collections. Newfields makes every effort to ascertain the copyright status of materials in Newfields’ Archives collections. Please refer to the RightsStatement.org statement above for information about the current copyright status of the content the image file(s).
Additional information about Newfields Archives reproduction guidelines can be found in the Archive Reproductions.