From Concept to Creation: A Deep Dive into the Stages of Architectural Design and Development
Modern designers are experts when it comes to taking the ideas and goals of their clients and transforming them into tangible realities. But, you might wonder how exactly they do this. What is involved in the architectural design process, and what should you expect when you work on your design?
The Many Stages Of The Design Process
At Mako Architecture, our design process is meticulous and involves several stages, each tailored to suit the unique requirements of the specific project in question. The particular details of your process will vary depending on your unique architectural design needs.
Let’s look at the architectural design journey, from concept to creation:
Stage 1: Preliminary Design And Feasibility Studies. The first step in any architectural project is to determine the feasibility of your project. This preliminary design phase is where basic concepts are sketched out to assess them and discuss changes if needed. We’ll consider the practical and aesthetic goals you’re trying to meet. Factors such as budget, timeline and regulatory requirements are discussed to avoid surpassing any limits.
A site analysis will also be performed to understand your site’s conditions, risks and opportunities.
Stage 2: Concept Design And Interiors. Once the feasibility is confirmed, the concept design phase can begin. This is the stage where the architectural design’s aesthetic and functional aspects will start to really take shape. We’ll complete conceptual sketches, drawings and other visual aids to help visualise the designs we have in mind, which will allow us to stay on the same page more easily.
In addition to exterior designs, we will also discuss interiors. The interiors of your building will be conceptualised with a focus on space planning, aesthetics and practicality. We will aim to create a cohesive design that aligns with the overall concept of your new building.
Of course, we strongly encourage you to give feedback when you need to. We want you to be fully happy with the designs we create, and we’ll use your thoughts to shape the design to your vision.
Stage 3: Developed design. Of course, we strongly encourage you to give feedback when you need to. We want you to be fully happy with the designs we create, and we’ll use your thoughts to shape the design to your vision.
Stage 4: Resource Consent. Depending on your project, resource consent may be required. We’ll see that assessments are conducted to evaluate the project’s potential impact on the surrounding environment. If needed, we’ll submit comprehensive documentation to obtain resource consent from the relevant parties.
Stage 5: Detailed Design And Building Consent. Once the concept is completed, the third stage involves developing a detailed design and obtaining necessary approvals. We will create more detailed architectural design drawings that detail everything rather than just being an overall concept. These detailed designs will include features like structural elements, electrical systems, plumbing and more.
We will also obtain necessary building consent by submitting detailed architectural design plans to local NZ authorities to ensure the design fully complies with all applicable codes and regulations. If needed, we’ll revise the design based on feedback.
This process can be complex, but we will oversee it so that everything is done properly. We’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about this, or any, stage of the process.
Stage 5: Tender Process. After all required consents are obtained, we’ll enter the tender process, which is where building contractors are chosen to carry out the design. We will gather and prepare all necessary tender documents that outline the full scope of the work, architectural design specifications and specific requirements. These details will allow contractors to form accurate quotes for their work.
Once contractors have been contacted, we can evaluate each offer based on cost, timeline, experience and other important factors. We will discuss each option with you to see which best suits your overall goals, and we can negotiate if needed.
Stage 6: Contract Administration / Site Observations (Optional). During this final phase, we can oversee the construction process to see that everything is completed according to our design. We shall conduct regular site visits and inspections to monitor progress, address any issues and ensure a high level of quality control.
We also encourage open and transparent communication with all parties so that the project stays streamlined. If any issues arise, we will work hard to find satisfying solutions that keep the project on track.
Bring Your Architectural Visions To Life In Aotearoa
The architectural design process may be complex, but it can lead to you stepping into the home of your dreams. Are you ready to get started? At Mako Architecture, we specialise in creating unique designs that meet the aesthetic and practical needs of our valued clients.
We’d love to discuss your design goals with you. Please don’t hesitate to call our team on 021 166 9205 or use our contact page.
Mako Architecture: Let us transform your ideas into reality.