For a building or construction project to succeed, it is essential to have a thorough architectural design process in place. The success of your build hinges on how well you have planned your project as, when you fail to prepare, you should prepare to fail. We are AS Construction & Structural Engineering – the home of intelligent, efficient, and innovative structural engineering services. With our help, you can achieve stunning and structurally sound builds that will elevate your home and improve your lifestyle. Our highly qualified and experienced structural engineers work alongside developers, architects, interior designers, contractors, and other construction professionals to create and deliver results that will exceed your expectations.
But when it comes to construction, what do you need to think about? With us working alongside you, you don’t have to worry about a thing. So, what are the 7 phases of the architectural design process? And why is it so important? Here’s everything you need to know…
First things first, what is the architectural design process?
The architectural design process is essential in planning, organising, and managing a range of construction projects. Without thorough planning in place, you risk the success of your project. As a construction project unfolds, you or your project manager can follow the architectural design process as a means of reviewing the project. This process creates a structured release of information comprising project management and communication on design intent. Without an architectural design process, your project could face delays and additional expenditure.
What are the 7 phases of the architectural design process?
- Pre-Design
The pre-design, or programming phase, is at the helm of the architectural design process. This stage requires the architect to work alongside the client to understand the full details of the project. For example, the architect will need to conduct research and collect information regarding:
- The plot of land.
- Any existing structures.
- Local zoning and land-use restrictions.
- Project scope.
- Client requirements,
- The neighbourhood.
- Building codes and regulations.
- Site conditions.
- And much more!
This phase of the architectural design process allows the architect to brainstorm and model several design ideas. The architect will also make a cost estimate as part of their bid to win the commission. If all parties agree on the terms and project scope, a contract will be drawn up.
Pre-Design Snapshot
Objectives
- Understanding the client’s requirements, personality and lifestyle.
- Understanding the client’s project aspirations.
- Conducting a site study.
- Locating pre-existing site structures.
- Conducting research.
Time Taken
The pre-design phase usually takes 2-4 weeks to complete.
- Schematic Design
The Schematic Design stage requires the architect to develop their designs ready to be presented to the client. This part of the architectural design process is crucial as it allows the client to provide feedback for the design of their project. Schematic design includes:
- Sketches, drawings and 3D renderings.
- Preliminary site plans, floor plans and building elevations.
- HVAC systems (structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning).
After client meetings, the architect will analyse the client’s feedback to make amends to their designs. Client feedback must be given and actioned at this stage to avoid additional costs and delays to the project further down the line.
Schematic Design Snapshot
Objectives
- Exploring and proposing design concepts.
- Creating site plans, floor plans and HVAC system plans.
- Developing a fully comprehensive design proposal.
Time Taken
The Schematic Design phase usually takes 4-8 weeks to complete.
- Design Development
Once the client has confirmed that they are satisfied with the design, the architect will develop a more detailed plan. At this stage, the architect may work alongside a structural engineer. Design development is often dictated by client budget, but typically encompasses:
- Placement of doors and windows.
- Any adjustments to the building form.
- Interior and exterior finishes.
- Finalising building layout and dimensions.
- Selecting building materials.
At the end of the Design Development stage, the architect and structural engineer will be able to provide the client with a detailed and more accurate cost estimation and schedule timeline for the full project.
Design Development Snapshot
Objectives
- Provide a cost estimation and schedule.
- Establish a detailed plan for the project.
- Incorporate any client amends.
Time Taken
The Design Development phase usually takes 8-12 weeks to complete.
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Construction Documents
The Construction Documents phase is a crucial part of the architectural design process. During this phase, the architect will produce two sets of detailed drawings: the Construction Set and the Permit Set. These drawings are responsible for specifying every aspect of the final design, therefore they must be well-planned for execution. The Construction Set remains on-site for the duration of construction and the Permit Set is sent by the architect to the local permitting authority. It’s important to note that the Permit Set will need to be approved which can take a long time. At this stage, it’s also common for a construction contractor to join the development team.
Construction Documents Snapshot
Objectives
- Creation of construction documents.
- Submitting documents to permitted authorities for approval.
Time Taken
The Construction Documents phase usually takes 8-12 weeks to complete.
- Building Permits
The Building Permits stage is essential and a legal requirement for construction. During this stage, the city or council will review the Permit Set to ensure that it is structurally sound and adheres to local zoning laws and building codes. It is illegal to begin construction without securing any required permits for the construction project.
Building Permits Snapshot
Objectives
- Getting your Permit Set approved by permitted authorities.
Time Taken
The length of time this phase takes to complete can vary depending on the complexity of the project and your area.
- Bidding and Negotiation
If an architectural company isn’t undertaking the construction itself, they will complete the Bidding and Negotiation phase. This process requires the architect to contract with a construction company that will undertake the project build. To decide on the construction company, the architect and the client will field negotiated bids from construction companies to find one best suited to the project. Construction companies will review construction documents, materials, schedules and the budget before competing for the job.
Bidding and Negotiation Snapshot
Objectives
- Hiring a suitable construction company.
Time Taken
The Bidding and Negotiation phase usually takes 3-6 weeks to complete.
- Construction Administration
Construction Administration is the final phase in the architectural design process and requires the architect’s role to shift from creative designer to project manager. During this time, although they won’t physically manage the project site, they will make regular site visits to ensure that project plans, schedule and budget are being adhered to. The architect will be on hand to answer queries and assist with any issues that may arise throughout the project. Depending on the project requirements, the architect may need to visit regularly, or only a few times during the process.
Construction Administration Snapshot
Objectives
- Regular site visits and recording project progress.
- Confirming that the materials and workmanship are of good quality.
- Verifying that the contractor’s invoices reflect the amount of work completed.
Time Taken
The Construction Administration phase usually takes 3-6 weeks to complete. However, this phase will last as long as it takes to complete the construction.
Why is the architectural design process necessary?
- Building Regulations
Following all phases of the architectural design process ensures that your project adheres to building regulations every step of the way. This stops future issues from arising that could impact your schedule and budget.
- Save Money
The architectural design process can help you save money on your project. From beginning to end, you have an overview of how much money you are spending, and where you’re spending it.
- Accountability
With an architectural firm responsible for your design process, there is accountability from conceptual design, right through to project completion. If there are any issues or queries, you know exactly who to approach.
- Functionality & Safety
The architectural design process ensures that your construction project functions as it should. Moreover, having a thorough design process in place ensures that those using your building are safe and that the building itself is structurally sound.
- Sustainability
Sustainability is increasingly important in the construction industry, and the architectural design process can help you to achieve sustainability goals. By carefully selecting your materials and processes, you can achieve an environmentally friendly project.
- Aesthetics
The architectural design process, as well as ensuring functionality, safety and sustainability, is also responsible for establishing the aesthetics of your build. Whether you need to establish a modern or traditional look, you can do it all within the process.
How does it work?
- Understand Your Requirements
From your initial correspondence with us via email and/or phone, we take the time to discuss and understand your project, and your requirements.
- Quotation
We submit a formal Fee Proposal based on the information received or discussed with you over email/phone, or if you have simply requested a quote via our quote form. We ensure our Fee Proposal clearly outlines the expected scope of work so that you are well informed and can easily decide on whether you wish to proceed with our services.
- Carry Out a Site Visit
Once you have accepted our Fee Proposal and formally instructed us on your project, we will arrange a suitable time to visit the site and carry out an initial visual inspection. The site visit allows us to discuss in person, your requirements in further detail as well as familiarise ourselves with the existing structure and the immediate surroundings. It also helps you to put a face to a name.
- Design & Survey Documents
Once an initial site visit is completed, for our structural design services we produce three structural design documents, all of which are required to be submitted to Building Control for you to gain approval for your proposed works. The structural design documents are as follows:
- Structural Calculation
- Structural Drawings
- Structural Specification Notes
Surveying Services
For our surveying services, we produce written structural survey reports and prepare party wall awards. The former is issued to you if you are looking for an appraisal of the existing structural condition of a property for the intention of future construction works to be carried out, or if you are looking to purchase or sell property. Party wall awards are issued to the building owner and the adjoining neighbour(s) before planned construction works are due to take place.
Architectural & Planning Services
For our architectural and planning services we prepare planning drawings which conform to your local authority’s planning framework and guidelines. Alongside the planning drawings, we also prepare and submit the relevant planning application on your behalf to your local authority to gain approval. Once approval is granted, and if instructed to do so, we then proceed with the production of the structural design documents and the building regulations drawings, which are all required for Building Control submission and approval.
Why work with us?
Complete Project Management
We provide great designs which satisfy our client’s requirements, and our exceptional project completion rate is a testament to the constant business we receive from new and existing clients.
Range of Services
We offer services nationally across the UK and our portfolio includes residential, commercial, industrial, health and education projects in both the private and public sectors.
Fully Qualified
We are fully qualified and are registered with the Institution of Structural Engineers, the world’s leading and governing professional body for qualifications and standards in structural engineering.If you’d like to take the step and arrange your side extension, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!
