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INTRODUCTION
The design process outlined below is a guideline
that achieves the greatest level of success in meeting your vision for
your project. The process allows for a great deal of interaction
between the architect and the client. We find that following these steps
allow the client to fully participate and develop their vision even if
they have never built or had any previous design experience. We
consider our roll as translator of all the ideas, feelings and
requirements for your project. We work closely with our clients to
determine their needs. We value the input of every person involved
in the project. We listen to the viewpoint of any person that
impacts the design so that we fully respond to the client’s needs.
Phase I -
Pre Design
Your dream begins with your vision and needs
for your home. First, we visit the sign and perform a thorough
code review. Then, the designer helps you do develop a “program”
or basic requirements. We begin with a program questionnaire that
allows us to create a list of basic necessities and functional elements
such as number of bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, etc. In
addition, we also discuss concepts and ideas that are important such as
style, spatial relationships and much more. Budget and
schedule are also determined including critical documentation such as
survey and soil reports.
Schematic Design
Finally, we go to the drawing board. We
begin with conceptual floor plan sketches. Here, the designer
space plans until the design meets both critical requirements from the
questionnaire as well as responds to all the ideas discussed.
Phase II -
Design Development
Floor plan - The designer translates his
sketches and ideas and develops a detail plan to scale. Plans are
incorporated into AutoCAD, a computer drafting program that gives us
accurate room proportions and dimensions. Fine details are
incorporated into the floor plan. The final plan is colored and
presented to the client along with other illustrations of spaces and
details to assist in conveying and imagining all concepts. Once
the client responds to the plan, the designer fine-tunes the design to
meet the final vision and expectations.
Elevation - The designer then develops
exterior elevations based on the client’s style and taste. We
pride ourselves in capturing the historical characteristics, rhythms and
proportions of each style. A colored concept is prepared to
demonstrate the scale and depth of the home and they are presented to
the client. Once again the client responds to the drawings and
approves the final design.
Phase III –
50% Construction documents
The designer meets with the owner and discusses and reviews detailed
building options with the client. Because building methods and
materials greatly effect budget, the client is educated on options they
have for the project. The approved design is then further detailed
for construction. Design specifications are created that communicate
materials and construction methods for each aspect of the project.
The architect works with the engineers to begin developing the
mechanical, electrical and plumbing drawings. When the engineering
is laid out the designer meets with the client to redline and make final
revisions to the engineering plans. The designer assist the client in
relaying their options for buildings systems.
Phase IV –
100% Construction documents
Final engineering and all details are
completed. The final plans will consist of all the necessary drawings
and details to communicate the accurate construction of the client’s
home. The plans consist of floor plans, exterior elevations, foundation
and structural drawings, cross sections, mechanical, electrical and
plumbing plans. Other information includes site plan, wall sections,
construction details and optional interior elevations. Final documents
are reviewed with the owner and are ready for permitting and
construction. All applications, product approvals and city
required documents are delivered.
Construction Phase
The architect’s role continues throughout
construction. The architect periodically reviews the construction
progress, interprets drawings and reviews shop drawings as required. |