Design Process

The Program is the guiding document that begins the process. Client and Architect interview one another to craft this before work on the site or design of any space begins.

Creating the building form starts with analyzing how it fits on its site. Zoning codes define the boundaries, heights and area available to build. Once the parameters are known, the designer uses the Program to shape the plans as the Client’s written goals are translated into room areas and circulation. The building is studied in both two and three dimensions. For efficiency and clarity of communication, we build models of the work early in the process of discovery and solution finding.

Sketches are pictorial shorthand method. To comprehend the end result in reality from a two-dimensional drawing on a flat surface …whether sketched on the back of a napkin or a flat screen image… it must communicate three dimensions. We use many tools to accomplish this. Computer models can be turned and viewed from any direction. We can make animations to walk around and through the spaces. As the process progresses, more detailed information is added to each facet of work.

The Design Process begins with the preliminary Concepts phase to settle the most important program issues.  These are set in more formal dimensioned drawings in Schematic Design (SD) for sign off by the Client. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the Design Development (DD) phase will bring the details and material choices to a decision point for the formal permitting by the local jurisdiction to begin along with selecting Contractors.  The Construction Document (CD) phase concludes the final work for all detailed drawings, materials’ schedules and Specifications for Contractor to use and for the Permitting process. Bidding phase requires additional services to assist you, the Client, to select your Contractor from comparison study of each Contractor bid. Aster selection of the Contractor, the Client can choose to retain the Architect to engage in Contract Administration, to monitor the work of the Contractor

Types of images used to communicate during phases in project shown below. 
Click on photo to enlarge.: