After the schematic design is completed, the next step in the architectural design process is the design development.
Design Development Purpose
While the schematic design’s purpose is to provide an overview of the building or remodeling project, the design development phase is intended to fill in the details. During this phase, the architect works with the client to develop an accurate picture of what the final product will look like. She consults with other experts to determine how different systems will be integrated, and she finalizes the design in preparation for the permitting and construction phases.
Schematic Design Decisions
During the design development, the architect finalizes the structural and systemic design elements, such as:
- What type of construction will work best for the various parts of the design?
- What materials will be used in each part of the project?
She also works closely with the client to make decisions, including:
- Which products – appliances, machinery, HVAC systems, flooring, fixtures, etc. – will be purchased and installed?
- What plants, trees or other materials will be used in the landscaping?
- What are the aesthetic needs of the design – colors, finishes, etc.?
All these decisions must be made with an eye to the cost, both up front and ongoing, and consideration of maintenance and durability of all aspects of the design.
Design Development Tasks & Deliverables
During this phase, the architect will ask the client to make decisions about the details of the project. She will advise the client based on her expertise and her understanding of the client’s unique needs and may direct the client to trusted vendors and other resources to view materials, appliances, cabinetry and other design elements under consideration. As with the schematic design, she may also provide photos, illustrations or materials samples to help support the client’s decision-making.
The architect also works with other members of the team to ensure all necessary systems are integrated into the design and will work together in harmony. These typically include energy systems, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, landscape design, acoustic design, accessible or universal design elements, security systems, and seismic and structural safety features.
If necessary, the architect will arrange for initial reviews of the design by local regulatory bodies, such as the planning and building department, the local zoning office, the health department, the local fire marshal or a design review board.
By the end of design development, the architect will produce a more refined version of documents detailing the project, including:
- Site plans
- Floor plans and elevations
- Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other systems plans
- Materials schedules detailing colors, finishes, appliances, fittings, etc.
Costs
The contract between the client and the architect will determine a payment schedule for design services–some architects bill at the completion of phase deliverables; others prefer a time-based (e.g., monthly) payment plan.
In addition, some materials, appliances or other elements will need to be ordered and may require a deposit or full payment.
As the design development progresses, the architect will update the client about any new issues that could affect the project’s design, timeline or budget.
This post first ran in 2019.