An architect organizes their work into simple steps that allow them to create designs that are both functional and aesthetically appealing. The first step in all works of design is pre-design which is the same as a feasibility study.
These simple phases of design ensure that everyone, especially the clients, understands what goes into works of design and what stage a project stands. Below, the six steps are discussed in details:
Pre-Design/Feasibility Study
Before an architect starts designing a building, they have to conduct preliminary research. In some instances, clients will research before hiring an architect. In this stage, the architect conducts a zoning analysis to determine the type of building that best fits an area. At the same time, the client needs to get a property survey and site analysis from a licensed land surveyor.
If a building already exists, the architect might conduct asbestos testing and lead testing among other hazardous materials tests. Other factors considered during pre-design include project scope, project goals, budgeting, and schedule among others.
Schematic Design
This is when the real design work starts. The phase takes about 15 percent of the architect’s work and as such 15 percent of the total architect’s fee. At this stage, the architect and the client discuss the project, especially the specific requirements that the owner might have.
The architect will then conduct a zoning analysis and identifies any building codes that may affect the development of the property. Later, the architect establishes size, location, and how the spaces on the property will relate. The goal of schematic design is to come up with the general size and shape of a building – it is a general plan that involves sketching until a decision is reached on the best shape and size.