Architectural Design Process

What makes construction project management really complex is the coordination necessary to connect the involved parties. Architects, contractors, engineers, teams working on-site, suppliers and more. The different phases of the architectural design process put realistic project deliverables and deadlines in place. Our professionals at Optim Project Management offer a clear picture of what to expect as one of our clients when discussing your project with our architects, by explaining the architectural design process.

The foundation for the design phases is the PRE-DESIGN, or the programming phase, when architects work with our client to understand the plot of land on which the project will take place. They need to collect information as land-use restrictions, surrounding buildings, site conditions, project scope, data that have a direct impact upon the evolution of the project. Before we design a project, our team needs to understand the project requirements and the approval process.

With the SCHEMATIC DESIGN, we refine the project and create detailed drawings. The design proposal for our client includes a schematic design with site plans, floor plans, as well as structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. After the meetings with our client, the architects analyse the feedback and make changes. At this stage, changes in the design process are useful, avoiding additional costs or delays in the construction schedule if done at a later date. Schematic design phase is the time for testing options and getting a general idea of the look and feel.

A more detailed plan results in the DESIGN DEVELOPMENT phase and the building’s exterior, layout and dimensions are finalized at the end of this stage. It’s important that architects make sure their designs are well-planned for execution and the construction documents must be approved. The first priority of this phase is to define and develop all the important aspects of the project and outline specification for preliminary cost estimating.

In CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS phase we develop design drawings into a thorough set that includes all the details, dimensions and notes necessary to communicate the entire design intent. It often requires the most time and this is a critical step in the process of successfully executing the design.

BUILDING PERMITTING is the phase when we submit the drawings along with the various forms required for the permit application, monitor the progress during the review period, and offer additional information or clarifications, as requested.

BIDDING AND NEGOTIATION – some clients already have a contractor, and for the others we are available to introduce them to a number of reputable partners we work with, providing assistance with obtaining and reviewing bids.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION is the phase that involves the architects frequently visiting the site, creating field reports after each visit and overseeing the execution. We proactively address potential issues and keep an eye on everything to ensure expectations are met, avoiding costly delays. During construction administration, the architect’s role is advisor to the owner and at the end of the project all work is completed to your satisfaction.