top of page

THE DESIGN PROCESS

If this is your first time building, or even your first time using a professional Architect, you may be unsure exactly how the process should go. Here is a summary of what you should expect.

scribblings_of_a_mad_man_by_hikaruwolf.j

STEP 1: CLIENT BRIEF (PRE-DESIGN PHASE)

This is the easiest step in the process, but requires the most client input and should be carefully considered even before meeting or selecting an architect.

At the first meeting we will sit and discuss everything you expect to get out of your finished building or space, and will try to define as clearly as possible:

  • Primary use (why do you want to build?)

  • Basic building architectural style (how do you want it to look?)

  • Rooms required (who will be living or working here?)

  • Room sizes

  • Functionality (how do you think the space will be used?)

  • Site information (where will it be built?)

  • Time frame (how soon do you want to start/ finish?)

  • Budget (how much did you expect to spend?)

Answers to these and other questions will provide valuable insight, but also help the owner and architect to form a cohesive relationship and a shared concept for the final building. A site visit should follow soon after so that the architect has an appreciation for the environment into which he will be inserting his design​.

Top floor3d_edited.jpg

STEP 2: SCHEMATIC DESIGNS

  This is where the fun begins. The architect will develop a basic sketch design for your project based on all the information provided in the brief, and taking into account any extra information he may have picked up on his site visit. Natural lighting, wind direction, views, architecture of adjoining buildings, nature of the landscape and many other factors will all play an important part in the formation of the initial sketch designs.

  Your input in this phase is vital, as you get the first glimpses, and then a more defined look at how your home will take shape. We work with 3d modelling software so that clients have a clear appreciation for how their structure and spaces will look and feel when complete. 

Ian CI-FLOOR_edited.jpg

STEP 3: DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

  In this phase the architect will translate the designs you have created together into more technically specific drawings. Information from other consultants will be cross referenced with architectural drawings, to ensure that structural components, mechanical/ electrical, and all other service systems fit and function well in the spaces defined.

  You are encouraged to review the plans as often as you need to during this phase, and bring any and all queries and concerns to the attention of the architect. Spending the extra time knit picking now will save time and potential expensive changes later.

  At the end of this phase, your architect will prepare to scale floor plans and other detailed drawings for initial review and approval by the various authorities. Applications fees will have to be paid to these state agencies.

  As a note of caution, any significant changes made after approval or during the construction drawing phase, may warrant additional fees.

Ian CI-Sections_edited.jpg

STEP 4: CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS

Although the approval drawings prepared during design development may in some cases provide sufficient information for the construction of a basic structure, further detailed drawings, printed at a larger scale, are usually required as an instrument of communication between the design consultants and those involved in the construction of your home.
Construction drawings set the parameters for the building process, allowing the contractor to take note of everything which he must account for in his bill of quantities and construction estimate.

Business Meeting

STEP 5: CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

Now that the design process is complete, your Architect does not simply abandon you to the mercy of others, however, the level of involvement hereafter depends on the client. You can further engage your Architect to assist with any/ all of the following:

  • Bidding process; We can handle the entire bidding process for you, interviewing contractors at your side, negotiating and advising where we deem prudent.

  • Contract documents; We can prepare the building contract to ensure you are covered against all eventualities, and that you have the necessary exit clauses just in case.

  • Contract administration; We can supervise the contractor throughout the entire construction phase to ensure standards are maintained, construction is carried out as per design, and to help solve any issues which may arise, whether design related or contractual.

Flow Chart

CONCLUSION:

An Architect should be your first point of contact when considering a design or construction project. He is a trained team leader, and will know who else should be involved in the project, and at what stage they should be included. If all goes well, your Architect will become your closest ally, and most trusted adviser, guiding you through the twists and turns of the sometimes daunting design and building processes. Be sure to choose one who seems to understand your vision, be open and honest with him, lean on him for his expertise, call on him for his opinion whenever in doubt, and most certainly invite him over so that you can enjoy it together!

bottom of page