Design Process

Many issues such as performance, reliability, site specific conditions, costs, governmental and even construction union's regulations, etc. must be addressed during architectural design. The task of achieving these properties is very difficult.

Here is the design process that is defined by architecture organisations which architects follow

• Phase 1: Schematic Design

The Goal of the schematic design (SD) is to clearly define design with a comprehensive scope, budget and schedule before the project is submitted for approval. In other words it's about determining the general scope, preliminary design, scale and relationships among the components of the project.

During this time the architect review and create a detailed ''program'' with the client to define his needs and objectives such as size, function, and relationship between spaces, character and image. It's important during this stage to arrive at a clearly defined, feasible concept while exploring the most promising alternative design solutions.

Before the initial design concepts starts, architects start by gathering and analyzing information and performing all the work necessary prior to designing a project. For instance, The Architect prepares a series of rough plans, known as schematics, which show the general arrangement of rooms and of the building on the site.

The next step is the ''landscape consultant'' input where the architect analyzes the site and determine the best placement of the project and spaces for reasons such as best placement to capture views and sunlight. During this stage usually the architect establish the construction scope, budget, and schedule. Models and/or illustrations are prepared to help visualize the project as necessary. The project proceeds to the next phase when the architect presents the design concepts to the owner, where the owner get to review the project and provide his own input and vision for his projects and approves the Schematic Design. Then When an agreement is reached between the architect and the owner, the basic layout or the schematic design is finalized.

• Phase 2: Design Development

Architects start by creating basic concept diagrams and rough sketches. Conceptual brainstorming and exploration define this portion of the design process, where the architect makes initial design of building systems, but expands the approved schematic design studies to develop more detailed drawings illustrating other aspects of the proposed design sometimes with help of consulting engineers.

During this time the architect determine the general layout, form and overall appearance of both the project and the site. Sketches, drawings and study models are prepared to help evaluate the ideas and concepts and set the final direction for refining the design. Once the size, layout and character of the project and site are refined, then architect begin to design feature elements such as stairs, cabinetry, fireplaces and built-in furniture. Drawings are prepared that describe some of the important technical details. Plans, elevations and sections through the house are developed such as floor plans that show all the rooms in correct size and shape. These outline specifications are a list of the major materials and room finishes. The Architect verifies that the design complies with building codes and works with engineers to design the structure, mechanical and electrical systems. During this stage the architect usually present the design development, and review the project cost estimation with the owner where the owner can provide his input. When agreement reached this design phase is finalized. At the end of this phase a large portion of the design work will be complete.

Next

Architecture Design Process

Home | About Architecture | Architecture Education | Online Architecture Degree | Famous Architects | Media Studies| History & Theory| Becoming an architect | Architectural Technology | Online Design Studio | Architecture Gallery | Links | About | Contact |Architecture Courses

©2008 Samawy & Newline