gpbutler@qwestoffice.net
617.605.4172
GTNJ Architecture
  • Home
  • New Construction Portfolio
  • Addition/Renovation Portfolio
  • Other Portfolio
  • The Design Process
  • Client Checklist
  • Questions You May Have
  • Contact us

The Design Process (or what to expect)


Architectural projects typically have 5 phases; pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration.

       Pre-Design Phase includes :
  • Developing a project program.
  • Helping you to hire a surveyor, then study the site survey of property and existing conditions, if any, related to program requirements, zoning requirements, HOA requirements etc.
  • Measuring existing conditions, if any, and creating existing drawings in AutoCad.
  • Documenting visible existing structural conditions, if any, relevant to proposed renovations/additions.
  • Documenting relevant visible existing plumbing and electrical conditions, if any.
     
    Schematic Design Phase includes :
  • Developing options as appropriate.
  • Reviewing and evaluating all options; developing new version(s) from preferred aspects of original schemes.
  • Identifying preferred scheme; documenting the preferred scheme in plans, exterior elevations, and sections.
  • Reviewing plans and elevations with builders/contractors to develop a preliminary construction budget.
  • At this point you may choose to work with a particular builder on a negotiated basis to follow through with construction or you may competitively bid the project once the construction documents have been completed.
  • If the project is over budget at this point, program and/or design must be re-evaluated.
     
    Design Development Phase includes :
  • Developing approved schematic design in AutoCad.
  • Meetings as required to review and identify all final construction materials, doors, windows, finishes, and appliances and appropriate fixtures, etc. that affect development of design.
  • Producing accurate ¼” floor plans, elevations and sections for final design approval.
  • Producing interior elevations of interior spaces for design review as necessary; identifying and designing built-in casework, etc.
     
    Construction Documents Phase includes :
  • Coordinating work of consultants.
  • Meeting to review all remaining design issues associated with the Design Development drawings.
  • Finalizing window and door types and sizes, ceramic tile finishes, kitchen cabinetry, counter tops, etc.; review lighting fixture and electrical layouts.
  • Producing all necessary architectural and engineering drawings for permitting and construction.
  • Producing all necessary Window, Door, and Finish Schedules.
  • Producing details for construction and Specifications for project.
     
    Construction Administration Phase includes :
  • Assisting Owner in selecting and hiring a contractor/builder.
  • Visiting job site to observe construction and review per the drawings and specifications.
  • Developing additional details for construction as required to aid the contractor in construction; answer contractor questions by telephone or email as needed.
  • Reviewing contractor requests for payment at the owner’s request.
  • Performing final punch list after contractor has achieved substantial completion. This means reviewing the work to be sure all is done per the drawings and specifications.
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.