Drafting Architecture: From Blank Page to Finished Design
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Our previous articles on the future of residential architecture and how to incorporate asymmetry into your architectural design are currently available. From clever storage solutions to hi-tech homes, the future of residential architecture is varied. We took a look at several major trends which are shifting the way homes are designed. If you’re interested in how homes are likely to change in the next few decades, give that article a read! Our most recent article delves into the implications of asymmetry. While traditional design leans toward symmetrical composition, asymmetrical composition can be a dynamic way to add flare to any design. We took a look at several structures from across the world and how they utilized asymmetry to their advantage. When you’re done with this article, definitely check out our last one!
Today, we’re giving you an in-depth look into the design process. Many who are interested in building their own home or commercial space, have a clear picture in their head of what they would like the structure to look like when finished. Translating this picture into reality requires clear communication between client and firm, diligence, and ample time. As you wait for your plans to be finalized, you might be wondering what’s being done to ensure a satisfactory plan. Well, there are a number of steps architects go through before finishing a plan. Let’s take a peek behind the curtain and illuminate the entire process, from blank page to finished design. Keep in mind, every firm and designer has their own preferred way to do things. Therefore, this is a general overview of the steps involved. If you’re interested in learning more, read on!
Conceptual Design
Conceptual design is the first part of the design process and could be considered pre-design, since this phase begins with the client and firm meeting. During an initial consultation, necessary information is shared between the client and designer, in order for both parties to align their goals. It’s important to establish the viability of the site, which is why zoning surveys are one of the first steps. A survey will clarify what can be built on the site and to what specifications the building must comply. If the client is seeking to renovate an existing structure, typically a site analysis will be required (i.e. survey, asbestos testing, lead testing, etc.).
The pre-design phase is often referred to as programming. Programming involves a thorough assessment of a client’s values and needs, as well as the needs of the surrounding community. In order to arrive at an end product which is pleasing to everyone involved, the firm architect must develop a relationship with the client. This relationship is based on trust and honesty. The client must trust the architect’s expertise and be honest about their desires, while the architect must trust the client’s vision and be honest about what will be required to make their vision a reality.
As a client, you’ll want to be able to clarify a few things for the firm. The first is the scope of your project. Are you looking to build a three-bedroom residential building or a twenty-five room medical center? Once the firm has a clear understanding of your project’s scope, they’ll be able to give you a more accurate project schedule. This might not be available during your first meeting, however. Projects with lots of moving parts, which are highly complex and require multiple permits and contractors, will be harder to schedule during an initial meeting. As well, even with a schedule, the timing of things is subject to change.
Secondarily, you’ll want to have an idea of your project goals. Sustainability and energy-efficiency must be incorporated from the ground up during the design process. Similarly, if you’re dreaming of a hi-tech home, a minimalist home, or any other kind of home, now is the time to say so. Consider the functionality of the home. Do you want to be able to work comfortably in any room? Do you want to entertain guests while cooking? Do you want to be able to play music upstairs and still have an entirely silent downstairs? All of these things are possible, but you have to know your own desires to express them to anyone else.
You might bring reference pictures (or even a mood board) to your client meeting to give your firm a better idea of what you’re hoping to achieve. Think beyond the number of rooms and focus on the details. How do you want the interior to relate to the exterior? Will there be a sense of openness between the rooms or are the spaces contained? How much natural light will occupy the kitchen? If you have answers for these questions, it's important to let your firm know so they can work toward these goals.
Lastly, you’ll want to have a budget in mind. Similar to the scope, this allows your firm to gauge the scale of the project. Your budget should be realistic, but also slightly flexible. At this early stage nothing is set in stone. You’ll have another opportunity to lock in a final budget later on in the process. Once they have your information, the firm will internally decide on the project team. The project team is the group of architects, designers, and engineers who will work on your project until its completion. These individuals will use your design objectives to guide their research, as they begin to formulate the conceptual design. The team will review the zoning results and analyze the budget before putting together a plan for the design process.
Schematic Design
Schematic design, also known as SD, is the second step in the design process and what most people think of when they imagine architects at work. Schematics are technical diagrams which serve to represent how the physical space will look on paper. (Although, 3D massing may also be used to give you a sense of how the structure will appear in reality.) These initial schematics mainly exist to establish the relationship between the spaces in the building. The architect must establish the size of the entire structure, the size of the individual rooms, the location of each room, and how the building will look from the outside. Though these designs are basic, they form the basis for further details.
You might have several meetings with your design team during this phase, as they require your approval on site plans, floor plans, and renderings. Take your time during this phase, as later changes to the fundamental design will be costly and time consuming. At this point, when the preliminary designs are approved, the firm should be able to estimate the cost of construction (based on the current design).
With your budget in mind, the firm has done their best to meet your specifications.You should review this cost estimate and, if necessary, adjust your budget or expectations accordingly. Your firm may also, at this point, recommend a handful of contractors. You should review these recommendations with care and decide on which you’re likely to work with down the line.
Design Development
The design development stage (DD) focuses on evolving the design to the point of maturity. Necessary systems are added to the schematics, including structural supports, plumbing, electric, and ventilation. During this stage you’ll hone in on the nitty-gritty. You’ll be asked to approve materials; types of fixtures, fittings, and finishes; where you would like certain things to be placed. Every decision must be given your “okay.” Ask yourself: Is the layout optimal? Are the finishes what you wanted? Will you be happy with the chosen appliances? This isn’t the last opportunity you’ll have to make revisions, but this is what the next cost estimate will be based upon.
At this point, an analysis of energy efficiency is possible. With combined schematics and 3D imaging, you should be able to accurately assess how your building will look and operate. Likewise, another cost estimate is derived from the current specifications (this time with your chosen contractor). You’ll review this estimate with your team and determine whether anything needs to be scaled back or added onto.
During the next part in this series, ‘Drafting Architecture: From Blank Page to Finished Design Part II,’ we’ll discuss technical specs, building permits, the final review and commonly asked questions about the design process. Be sure to return! For more information on architectural design and building, keep up-to-date with the Architecture Plus blog! If you’re ready to sit down with an experienced team of designers and hash out the elements of your next project, reach out to us! We’re eager to hear from you. Until next time, thank you for reading!