Design Phases in Architectural Process
There are four design phases in the architectural process, and each stage plays a vital role in the success of the project. Whether you plan to build a new commercial building or residential building, you need to clearly understand all the seven phases of the design process work.
Choose a service of a licensed professional architect who is well-versed in any design. To ensure all the standard practices in architecture will be followed, which generally consist of the following phases:
Programming Phase
Also known as the pre-design phase, in this phase, the architectural process design kicks off. In the programming phase, the architect will meet the client to discuss all the needs and desires of the client for the project, and then the architect will gather all the information about the project outlines. At this phase, the client or the property owner and the architect will begin to have a cohesive relationship and a shared concept for the final building design. Your project’s budget will also be discussed in this phase, for it is essential to know and understand the estimated costs of your project.
Then the architect will research land-use restrictions and local zoning. If both parties agree on the scope and terms of the project, they will draw up a contract for the architectural services.
Schematic Design Phase
After determining all the project requirements in the programming phase, the design phase will follow. The architect will shape a vision through drawings, or the architect will translate the client’s wishes into the project design concept. It involves schematic drawing designs, sketches, 3d Renderings, building elevations, floor plans, and preliminary site plans, including all building utility systems such as Electrical, Plumbing, Airtight and Watertight General access doors locations, and HVAC. The architect will show all schematic daft plans and designs in this phase.
The architect input in phase is vital, as it is the first glimpse of your project what it will look like. It is indispensable to establish a clear and precise decision-making process with the architect during this stage.
It is essential to have a thorough review of the drawing concept before approving the project design. And discuss the preliminary overall construction cost.
Design Development Phase
It is the phase where the architect will now design a detailed and intent manifest plan to translate the realm ideas into physical form to reach the completeness level and demonstrate the project to be built. The schematic design at this point has more detailed information given by consultants and team members. Typically if the project requires a structural engineer, that person will join this phase.
The architect also presents both interior and exterior finishes to the client, including the foundational structure.
It is vital to evaluate how systems, preliminary structure, and material selection reflect the schematic design concept. Your involvement will take time, like reviewing all the plans most of the time and making many decisions on the project; working with your architect is a rewarding and fun experience. Finishes significantly affect the total construction cost, so you should handle it with your utmost degree of respect. At the same time, a realistic cost estimate will come into view in this stage.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
In this phase of the architectural process, the design will become a reality. The architect will produce two sets of detailed drawings which specify every detail of the final design. The first set of drawing plans is for permit submission to the authority, whether it is a county or a city. The second set remains on the site and will be used through the construction process. During this phase, the architect will have a close interface with the consultants such as structural engineers, mechanical engineers, and interior designers, ensuring complete coordination set for the project.
Once the design process is complete, your plan is now ready to build. At this point, the architect’s involvement will depend on what you have previously agreed on or how you will work with the architect. Each architect has a different approach. Choosing the right architect that goes along with your requirements can make a difference for your project. The architectural process design is a problem-solving, creative endeavor where visions and ideas will transform into reality. The whole process could be an exciting journey.
