Architectural Programming & Schematic Design

 Designing a new home or a once-in-a-lifetime renovation should be an exciting experience. The first step in the design process is programming, or the process of discovery. The initial conversation focuses on identifying the homeowner’s vision, goals, and priorities (how many rooms? What size? Who will use it? How will it be used?), while being sensitive to the site, the surrounding area, and the natural environment. The site can determine the form the home takes (and costs). This phase will also include time to discuss budget goals and expectations.

 Schematic design—or the rough sketches (produced by hand and combined with 3D CAD imaging)—is focused on defining the direction, the goals, and project scope. The sketches illustrate the general arrangement of rooms and of the house on the site. The sketches aren’t “finished” construction documents, they’re meant to show potential options. This phase also includes identifying challenges and opportunities. Typically this will include plans, exterior views, and other work that explores the overall design ideas of the project. The active engagement of you, the client, is critical so that you and your architect are on the same page about what you want. We have the training and skills to develop and refine a vision of the completed project that you can see and understand. We’re experts at helping you visualize the big picture and the smaller steps necessary between concept and completion. We design in 3D CAD software (Revit) to help you visualize direction and choices from the start. 

 This phase is all about refinement, exploration, and researching the components required to satisfy the project goals. The finer details—finishes, mechanical, lighting, electrical, and conceptual structural systems—are clearly illustrated, as well as exterior and interior elevations. At this phase, we strike a balance between aesthetic beauty and structural safety. Before going on to the next stage, the architect will ask for your design approval. 

 Construction documents are the graphic drawings and written specifications of how things are to be built—these drawings will be submitted for permit approval and will be what's used to build the project. These documents will also clarify the quality and level of craftsmanship applied to the project at hand. During this phase, you should start visiting manufacturers and suppliers to select materials. 

 Architects can help a client find qualified contractors—they’ve had experience working with different builders and can assess firsthand the quality of work they do. Selecting a contractor may occur during an earlier phase, or after the construction documents are completed. Prospective contractors will need bidding documents, which the architect will prepare. The key to a successful project is good communication and a team effort between the client, architect and builder, so meeting as a team and open a dialogue between every party involved is essential. In this phase, the architect helps the client evaluate bids, clarify questions, define schedules, and coordinate contracts. 

 In this phase, the architect makes site visits as defined in the contract, works with the contractor to coordinate construction, and represents your interests through completion of the project. This phase is when the drawings become physical reality. Architects can also provide construction administration services, keeping the project on track, on time, and within budget. As a collaborative process, you and your architect can determine what services outlined above are appropriate for your budget and project. With thoughtful evaluation and design, we strive to meet—and exceed—your expectations.