5 Phases of Architectural Design Explained by Architect Jorge Fontan

Summary

In this informative presentation, architect George Fontana outlines the five phases of architectural design: pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration. He emphasizes the importance of each phase, detailing how they help architects organize their work and communicate effectively with clients. From establishing project goals and budgets in pre-design to ensuring compliance and overseeing construction, Fontana provides insights into the architectural process and the architect's role at every stage. This overview serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of architectural design.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pre-design establishes the project's scope, goals, budget, and schedule.
• 😀 A building program details the types and quantities of units in the project.
• 😀 Schematic design focuses on conceptualizing the building's size, shape, and layout.
• 😀 In schematic design, architects create preliminary floor plans and building elevations.
• 😀 Design development adds detail to systems such as HVAC, electrical, and interior spaces.
• 😀 Construction documents are critical as they provide the detailed drawings needed for building.
• 😀 Bidding involves selecting contractors and ensuring all bids are compared fairly.
• 😀 Construction administration includes overseeing the construction process and issuing clarifications.
• 😀 Change orders manage modifications to the scope of work during construction.
• 😀 The project concludes with a certificate of occupancy, signifying the building is ready for use.

Q & A

What are the five main phases of architectural design?

The five main phases are Pre-Design, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, and Bidding and Construction Administration.

What is the purpose of the Pre-Design phase?

The Pre-Design phase establishes the project scope, goals, budget, and schedule, and develops a building program that outlines specific requirements for the project.

How does zoning analysis factor into the Pre-Design phase?

Zoning analysis determines what can be built on a property, including size and other regulatory factors, which is crucial for compliance and feasibility before purchasing properties.

What activities occur during the Schematic Design phase?

During Schematic Design, architects create concept designs, establish building massing and floor plans, develop elevations, and may create 3D renderings or physical models.

What is included in the Design Development phase?

Design Development includes further detailing of designs, working on building systems (like structural and mechanical), creating interior elevations, and selecting materials and finishes.

What is the significance of Construction Documents?

Construction Documents provide detailed drawings necessary for contractors to build the project, accounting for all construction details, and ensuring compliance with building codes.

What role does the architect play during the bidding phase?

The architect facilitates contractor selection by reviewing bids, interviewing contractors, responding to RFIs, and advising the client on which contractor to choose.

What happens during the Construction Administration phase?

During Construction Administration, the architect oversees the project, conducts site visits, manages change orders, and ensures the construction aligns with design intent.

How does an architect handle change orders during construction?

An architect reviews change orders that result from design changes or unforeseen conditions, coordinating necessary amendments to the drawings and managing their impact on the project.

What is the final step in the architectural process after construction?

The final step is obtaining a certificate of occupancy from the Department of Buildings, which legally allows the building to operate after passing all required inspections.