Design Process
continued:
Once the Owner has approved the Design Development phase, at this stage architect start working on producing working drawings and specifications production where the design is translated into detailed working drawings (formerly known as blueprints) and specifications, which the Contractor will use to establish actual construction cost and build the project.
These working drawings or blueprints and specifications are prepared to define in detail all of the materials that are to be integrated into the project, and where they are to be located and how they are to be installed. These drawings and specifications become part of the construction contract.
Although this phase is primarily intended for working out the technical aspects of the project, some design work also takes place. Also during this stage plumbing fixtures, light fixtures,, and finish materials such as tile, carpet, paint colors, etc. are selected with the client. Finally the owner reviews the project.
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Phase 4: Bidding and Negotiation
During the Bidding and Negotiation phase the architect may assist the customer in obtaining competitive bids or bid evaluation as well as invitations to bid and instructions to bidders. Moreover, The architect creates and specifies the conditions of the contract, and the form of agreement between the owner and the contractor. Furthermore, the architect prepares and distributes sets of drawings and specifications, answer contractor questions, interpret the documents, and prepare ''addenda'' - revisions to the original drawings or specifications.
Once the bids are received, then comes the contract awarded stage where the architect analyze the results and prepare the contract between the customer and the selected contractor.
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Phase 5: Construction
Of course the final phase of the process is the construction, where construction begins with on-site construction observation. During this phase the architect review the progress of the work and facilitate any changes that may be required by visiting the construction site to observe the construction and to determine, in general, if the project is being built according to the plans and specifications. The architect answer questions, review submittals and shop drawings (manufacturers' drawings of specific elements to be incorporated within the project), and review monthly certificates of payment that are submitted by the contractor and process change orders.
The architect generally keeps the owner informed of the project's progress. However, the contractor is solely responsible for construction methods, schedules, techniques, and procedures. Final selections of finishes and fixtures are also made here. The architect upon completion of this phase thoroughly inspects the project to ensure that it is complete. Some architects provide One-year building review.
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