5 design phases when building your dream home
When working with an architect, here's what to expect throughout the process.
When building a home, your architect will work with you throughout the entire project, managing many different roles. The experts at Schaub Projects Architecture + Design share the five design phases you can typically expect when building your home and working with an architect:
Phase 1: Schematic Design
Think of it as the preliminary drawing phase, in which the architect helps plan the space with input from the client. By the end of this phase, you'll have a good understanding of how the project will look, flow, and operate—both inside and out. You'll also understand how the structure interacts with the site. Sketches, renderings, and other materials will be presented during a series of design meetings. The final design concept will be presented, along with a preliminary cost opinion.
Phase 2: Design Development
The architect will revise and further clarify the design while transferring from sketch to computer software. Working together, the client and architect will select materials, including interior finishes and such products as windows, doors, fixtures, appliances, and other materials. Engineer experts will look at the structure, as well as planning for plumbing, electrical, heating/ventilation systems, and any other project-specific systems. By the end of this phase, most product selections and systems designs should be progressing. This phase concludes when the interior and exterior design of the building is firmly established and accepted by the client.
Phase 3: Construction Documents
In this phase, technical drawings, details, building sections, schedules, and notes are prepared. Specifications for bidding construction and permit application are also outlined. This phase is typically the largest and most time-consuming. Along with engineers and consultants, all of the technical calculations, drawings, and details are finalized. Mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as all products and materials, are selected and/or scheduled.
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Phase 4: Bidding and Negotiation
At this point, the client prepares to select the contractor and sign contracts to proceed with construction. The architect will prepare a bid package and recommend contractors for the project. The architect’s role is to assist the client, answer contractors' questions, and provide any additional documentation if requested or needed by the contractor during the course of bidding and negotiating the contract with the client.
“Having us on your side during the bidding phase of construction is of great advantage to you,” says Schaub Projects principal David Schaub. “We aid you in developing a list of qualified contractors and can provide analysis of all submitted bids.”
Phase 5: Construction Administration
The last phase is the longest scheduled phase of the project. The architect doesn't supervise the whole construction project; instead, they periodically visit the job site to monitor progress and evaluate whether the contractor’s work is following the plans and design intent. The architect’s attention helps ensure the smooth and satisfactory completion of a project. The ultimate goal is to ensure that what was envisioned from the start is built as planned and to satisfaction.
If you’ve decided to build a custom home, now is the best time to get in touch with an architect. With more than 30 years of experience, the team at Schaub Projects is well-versed in the luxury home–building process and ready to help create your dream space.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Schaub Projects Architecture + Design. To learn more, visit SchaubProjects.com.
