Steps In The Process

Design and construction projects involve several steps. Generally, projects go through the following phases. However, on some projects, several of these steps may be combined; on others there may be additional steps.

Deciding What to Build

This first stage, called programming, is probably the most valuable time you will spend with your architect. It is at this time that you discuss the requirements for your building: how many rooms, what function the structure will have, who will use it and how. It is also the time when you begin to test the fit between what you want, what you need, and what you can spend.

Be very frank about how you want the end result to feel and work. The architect will ask you lots of questions to get a better sense of your goals and needs and to determine if your expectations match your budget. The architect may suggest changes based upon knowledge, experience, and your budget.

Rough Sketches

Once you have defined what is to be built, the architect will then do a series of rough sketches, known as schematic designs. These sketches will show you the general arrangement of rooms and of the site. These sketches are not finished documents. They are meant to show possible approaches for you to consider. The architect will refine and revise the sketches until a solution is developed that you agree meets the needs of your project. 

Preparing Construction Documents

At this point, the architect prepares construction documents, the detailed drawings and specifications which the contractor will use to establish actual construction cost and to build the project. These drawings and specifications will be used to obtain building permits and will become part of the contractor's contract.

Hiring The Contractor

There are a number of ways to select a contractor. Your architect can make
recommendations, or, if you already have someone you want to work with, you might send the construction documents to him or her and negotiate fees and costs. Or you may wish to choose among several contractors you've asked to submit bids on the job.

Construction

This final step is often the most anxiety producing part of the whole process. Up until now, your project has been confined to intense discussion, planning and two-dimensional renderings. When construction begins, your project moves from an abstraction to a physical reality.

While the architect observes construction, the contractor is solely responsible for construction methods, techniques, schedules and procedures. 

The path to a completed building project is paved with lots of challenges and uncertainty. There are literally hundreds of decisions to be made, decisions which have a strong impact on how the project looks and functions over time. The architect not only can ease the way by helping you avoid wrong turns, but also can direct you to solutions you never considered. The result is a unique building project created to meet your needs, express your individuality and provide enjoyment for everyone who uses it.

 


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