The Architectural Process
This is Part 1 in a series about The Architectural Process. Look out for the other posts in the series, covering each of the 8 parts in more detail, here.
“The architectural process breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity. ”
How does a sketch on the back of a napkin become a building? Although it can look like it, it's not magic! Architects come up with ideas, and then see them through into complex, complete, constructed buildings. The intense level of detail, complexity of thinking and tenacity required to turn a sketch into a building can be overwhelming, even for those who have done it a thousand times before.
The way that architects manage this is to put in place a framework for their thinking - a process which breaks the project down into stages, each adding an additional, and manageable, level of complexity.
Just as different individuals have different design thinking processes, different firms will work through from concept to construction in slightly different ways. However, there is an accepted project methodology used by architects, which is often re-framed as the 'standard services' offered.
Below, I have outlined how this process can be broken down into 8 parts:
1. ENGAGEMENT
2. PRE-DESIGN
3. Concept Design
4. PRELIMINARY DESIGN
5. Developed Design
6. Detailed Design / Working Drawings
7. Contract Procurement
8. Contract Administration & Site Observation
It's worth keeping in mind that these parts are malleable, and are often consolidated or omitted depending on the practice, the project, or the clients' requirements.
For example, many architects will offer Concept Design and Preliminary Design as a combined phase, or incorporate Pre-Design with Engagement so they are able to assess the feasibility of the project and budget with sound knowledge of the site conditions, or council restrictions.
A number of statutory requirements are slotted in to different parts of the process, for example Building Consent roughly aligning with the end of Working Drawings. Architects also manage in the input of various consultants throughout the process, bringing each on board when relevant and integrating their work at different phases of the project.
For more understanding of the Architectural Process from a client's perspective, see the Talk to an Architect website, here.
