Architectural Design Processes

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ARCHITECTURAL

DESIGN PROCESSES

7 Phases of Architectural Design

1. The pre-design phase: Also known as


the programming phase, this phase kicks
off the architectural design process. In the
pre-design phase, the architect interfaces
with the client to learn about the plot of
land, any existing structures, and the
client's wishes for the future building.
(Whenever possible, an in-person site
analysis gives the most accurate
information for all project types.) The
architect researches local zoning and
land-use restrictions, then makes a cost
estimate as part of their competitive bid to
win the commission. If the parties agree on
terms and the scope of the project, they
draw up a contract for architectural
services.

2. The schematic design phase: In this


next phase, the architectural design team
begins to translate the client's wishes into
a building design concept. This may
involve sketches, drawings, 3D
renderings, and preliminary site plans,
floor plans, and building elevations. Any
building systems, such as HVAC and
plumbing, also belong in the schematic
designs.
3. The design development phase: This is
the phase where the architect's design
intent manifests as a detailed plan. If the
project requires a structural engineer,
that person typically joins the team at this
point. The architect also presents the
client with both exterior and interior
finishes, which will go atop the
foundational structure. Finishes can
greatly affect the total cost of a
construction project (as well as the
project schedule), so this phase must be
handled with the utmost degree of
respect. At this point, a more realistic
cost estimate will come into view.

4. The construction documents phase: In


this next phase of the architectural design
process, design becomes a reality. The
architect produces two sets of detailed
drawings that specify every detail of their
final design. One set is called the
construction set, and it remains on-site
throughout the construction process. The
other set is called the permit set, which the
architect sends to the local permitting
authority, whether that's a city or a county.
In a design-build project, the in-house
construction contractor becomes involved
at this point.
5. The building permit phase: At this point,
the architect must submit the permit set of
drawings as part of a larger permit
application. The city or county reviews the
submittals for structural integrity and
adherence to zoning laws and building
codes. Permitting can be one of the
slowest parts of the construction process,
but it protects architects, builders, and
property owners from potentially
dangerous construction errors. Simple
construction projects in permissive
municipalities can get approval in a matter
of days. If you're building something
ambitious, or if you're building in a historic
district, the permitting process can take
months.

6. The bidding and negotiation phase: If


the building is a design-build project that is
designed and built by the same firm, there
is no need to field bids from construction
contractors. If no contractor comes pre-
attached, the client and the architect
interview contractors and solicit
competitive bids. Potential contractors sit
down with the client and architect to go
through the construction drawing sets and
discuss materials and schedules.
Contractors seek shovel-ready projects to
keep their crews busy throughout the year.
Therefore, you will have a better chance of
securing a contractor—and a competitive
price—if your project is already permitted
and ready to go.
7. The construction administration phase:
In this final phase, the architect's role shifts
from creative design to project
management. While they don’t physically
manage the job site, they make regular
site visits to ensure that the project is being
executed according to their plans. The
contractor and their crew assume control
of the project like a film director taking over
a screenwriter's script. Project budgets
can balloon on account of cost overruns,
but with careful planning, no changes will
be needed. s

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