Design Process

    The design process starts with a project overview. In this meeting we aim to answer three main questions: What will your project look like? Is the project feasible? What is the scope of the architect/designer’s work in the process? Once we understand the parameters of the project we can move onto drafting a concept plan. The concept illustrates the general shape and layout of the space, and can be revised and edited until all parties are satisfied. The next step is to draft an unofficial plan set. If necessary, the unofficial plan set is then reviewed by both an engineer and the local building department to ensure that the building is structurally sound and conforming to local building codes. Once the plan set is checked off by the engineer and the building department we are ready to draft an official plan set that includes all architectural and structural details.

 

 

 

What will your project look like?
   
   During the project overview meeting, we exchange ideas and discuss the aesthetic and functional qualities of your building. It is helpful to share sketches or photos of existing models during this phase, and describe what you like and don’t like about these models. 

Is the project feasible?

   In the first meeting, we will also address the initial project feasibility. Answering questions such as: is the building site appropriate for this type of structure? Is the entire scope of the project within budget? Does the project structure allow us to set a timeline? Are we abiding by local building codes including safety and environmental impact? It’s imperative to ensure the project is feasible before moving on to drafting an initial concept.  

What is the scope of the architect/designer’s work in the process?

   A freelance designer/architect can play a variety of roles in the design and construction process from drawing simple 2D plan sets to advanced 3D modeling, virtual walk-throughs, renderings, hiring the construction team including the engineer, general contractor, construction managers, etc… or even supervising the project from concept phase to project completion. It is important to discuss the scope of the designer’s work and determine roles/responsibilities early on in the project. 

 

The Concept Phase 

 

    The concept phase begins with one or several floor plan options as well as elevation views to get an idea of the space. We can easily go through several rough drafts while ideating on the function and spatial requirements of the building. Once we land on a design that will work we can move on to interior and exterior rendering. In this initial rendering, we can move components around, playing with the interior layout, window and door placement, and exterior aesthetic. We can keep fine-tuning the space as needed until the concept phase feels complete. After the concept phase is complete the structure must be examined in closer detail. The first step is engineering.   

 

Engineering 

 

    Engineering involves the designer and engineer going over the structural details of the building to ensure its structural integrity. It is also critical that the engineer and designer are aware of local building codes and that the structure conforms to those codes. After evaluating the unofficial plan set a list of key architectural and structural details is created. This list is used to determine the number of “detail” pages necessary for the plan set to be complete and, therefore the amount of time necessary to draft the plan set. More complicated or “out of the box” structures will typically require more extensive detailing.
 

     
See Billing Information Below

 

 

 

Concept Modeling: $70/hr. 

•  The initial concept meeting is only billed if both parties agree to proceed to the concept modeling phase.     

•  Concept reiterations based on client, engineer, or building inspector feedback are a continuation of the concept modeling phase.  

•  The designer can provide an estimate of the time required for modeling or drafting at any point.

Billing for Architectural Detailing, Engineering, and plan submittal 

   Detailing: $70/hour --or-- Bid 

• The cost to complete the planset is determined by the extent of detailing necessary, the engineer fee, and the submittal fee.    

• The timeframe and estimate, or bid, can be provided at this phase of the project. 

• Going back and making changes to the concept during this phase are necessarily billed hourly.