Designing and building is an exciting journey, often shrouded in mystique for clients. As architects, we see it as a collaborative process of listening, understanding, and translating clients’ needs, visions, and values into reality. Through open communication and trust, ideas take form, and vision becomes reality. While every project is unique, the design process follows a general set of phases that build upon one another.
Pre-Design: Building the Foundation
Before design begins, we establish a creative foundation by getting to know the client’s goals, needs, timeline, and budget. We also analyze the site, zoning laws, building codes, and other considerations to create a framework that guides the rest of the process.
Schematic Design: Shaping the Vision
With the groundwork in place, we begin sketching ideas to explore how spaces connect and flow. These early concepts, developed in collaboration with the client, are refined through feedback, marking the first tangible step toward the final vision.
Design Development: Refining the Details
In this phase, the design evolves into more detailed plans and elevations (exterior façade views). Decisions about materials, finishes, and structural elements take shape. Engaging a contractor or estimator at this stage is often beneficial for aligning the design with the project budget to assure feasibility.
Construction Documents: Preparing for Reality
Once the design is finalized, we create comprehensive construction documents. These include architectural drawings, structural plans, and other technical details to guide contractors in turning the vision into a tangible structure.
Bidding & Negotiation: Selecting the Right Builder
For commercial projects, builders bid competitively based on the construction documents. For residential projects, choosing a builder with the right skills and experience is essential. Early collaboration with a contractor—ideally during design development—can streamline the process and ensure budget alignment.
Construction Administration: Guiding the Build
During construction, we conduct regular site visits to oversee progress, review shop drawings, address challenges, and ensure the work aligns with the design intent. Our active involvement maintains quality and ensures the project stays on track.
Project Closeout: Bringing It All Together
At the project’s conclusion, we conduct a final review to ensure the design intent is realized. This phase may include a walkthrough with the client, addressing final adjustments, and providing necessary documentation.