7 Phases of Architectural Design

7 Phases of Architectural Design

The seven phases of the architectural design process are as follows:

1. The pre-design phase:The pre-design phase: also known as the programming phase, this phase is the start of the architectural design process. During the pre-design process, the architect will consult with the client to learn about the plot of land, any current buildings, and the desires of the client for future construction. (Whenever possible, in-person site analysis offers the most reliable information for all forms of projects.) Architects study local planning and land-use restrictions, then make a cost estimation as part of their successful proposal to win the commission. If the parties agree on the terms and scope of the project, they shall draw up a contract for architectural services.

1. The schematic design phase:In this next step, the architectural design team starts to transform the desires of the customer into a concept of construction design. This can include designs, models, 3D renderings, and tentative site plans, floor plans, and building elevations. All building systems, such as HVAC and plumbing, are also part of the schematic design.
2. The design development phase:This is the process in which the design purpose of the architect expresses itself as a detailed plan. If the project needs a structural engineer, that person normally joins the team at this point. The architect also provides the client with external and interior finishes to the top of the foundation structure. Finishes will have a huge effect on the final expense of the building project (as well as the project schedule), meaning that this process must be done with the highest regard. A more practical cost estimate would be considered at this stage.
3. The construction documents phase:Design is becoming a reality in this next step of the architectural design process. The architect creates two sets of detailed sketches that specify each aspect of their final design. One set is considered the construction set and resides on-site during the construction process. The other set is called the permit set, which the architect sends to the local licensing authority, whether it is a city or a county. At this stage, an in-house construction contractor is involved in the design-construction process.
4. The building permit phase:At this stage, the architect shall apply a permit set of drawings as part of a larger application for authorization. The city or county shall review the submissions on the structural integrity following zoning regulations and building codes. Permitting can be one of the slowest aspects of the building process, but it prevents architects, contractors, and landowners from potentially unsafe construction mistakes. Easy building projects in permissive municipalities may be approved in a matter of days. If you're building something ambitious, or if you're building in the historic district, the permitting process can take months.
5. The bidding and negotiation phase (optional): If the building is a design-building project that is planned and constructed by the same company, there is no need to submit bids from construction contractors. If no contractor has been pre-attached, the client and the architect shall interview contractors and seek open tenders. Potential contractors sit down with the client and the architect to walk over the building drawing sets and review the materials and schedules. Contractors are searching for shovel-ready projects to keep their crews occupied all year long. You will therefore have a better chance of securing a contractor—and a competitive price—if your project is already allowed and ready to go.
6. The construction administration phase:In this final step, the role of the architect moves from creative design to project management. Though they do not physically manage the construction site, they make frequent site checks to ensure that the job is carried out in compliance with their plans. The contractor and his crew take charge of the project like a film producer taking over the screenwriter's script. Project budgets will expand on the basis of cost overruns, but with proper preparation, no modifications would be made.