How does the Design stage work…
Before Design can begin, the Architect needs a Program or Brief called the Project Brief, to work from. The Project Brief will define what you actually NEED versus what you WANT and any limitations or CONSTRAINTS the project may encounter due to site, zoning, code, utilities or other limiting factors.

Step #1,  engage the Architect to develop the Project Brief.
Once the Project Brief is completed, your ready for the Design to begin.

Design is separated into Five distinct stages;

• SCHEMATIC DESIGN (SD) – During the Schematic/Conceptual stage, the architect will propose solutions to the issues defined in the Project Brief. This includes defining the general location / adjacency and size of spaces / rooms, and the aesthetics or general look of the project.
   
• DESIGN DEVELOPMENT (DD) – The design Scheme is developed, determining the specifics of functions and selection of materials to be used. Selections include exterior materials, interior materials, fixtures, lighting, doors, hardware, windows and much more. Systems design  including the building envelop, structural, electrical, security, audio, home automation, plumbing and HVAC. At the conclusion of the DD stage (design development) we provide you with a preliminary Project Cost.
   
• CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (CD) – When the design is completed, it needs to be documented into a form that other team members (sub-contractors, township, inspectors, financiers, insurers) can be brought in to understand the objectives and goals of the project and what their role is.
   
• APPROVALS / OBTAINING PERMITS (AP) – The Construction Drawings are used to obtain permits from the Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (LAHJ).
   
• CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION (CA) – During the Construction Administration (CA) stage the architect handles all communication between the team members and the owner. This provides the Homeowner with a single source of communication for the entire project lifecycle. This stage of the process ensures that what gets built is precisely what the design intent and what the construction drawings call for. The architect reviews submittals, RFI’s, test & inspection results, payments and project closeout.