People are often excited to work with an architect because they are engaging a professional who can translate their vision into a thoughtful, buildable design. At the outset of a project, it is important to understand the phases of architectural services, as the design process and fee structure are typically aligned with the substantial completion of each phase.
Throughout Dutchess County and across Upstate New York, projects vary widely in scope, complexity, and budget. While terminology may differ from firm to firm, the overall framework of architectural services remains consistent. Not every project requires all phases and agreements can be tailored to suit the specific needs of each client while maintaining a clear and structured design process.
The deliverables produced by architects on completion of each phase are typically drawings and graphic presentations. Throughout the design process Serge uses sophisticated technologies to create clear, accurate, and concise drawings and presentations that effectively convey design intent.
When working on additions, the existing conditions drawing are produced during the Pre-Design Phase. Lazer measurement devices are used to field-measure existing conditions and all existing condition drawings are drafted in Autocad.
During the Schematic Design Phase, hand sketches are created to communicate design solutions. Sometimes, with additions and alterations projects, drawings are prepared in Autocad due to constraints of the existing conditions. For new construction, massing computer models are often created during the Schematic Design Phase.
Hardline CAD drawings and, occasionally, computer models are created during the Design Development Phase. Documentation for this phase also defines materials, moulding profiles, and other architectural details.
All construction drawings are prepared in Autocad. Great effort is made to craft construction drawings that are easy to read, clearly communicate the design intent and provide all the information necessary for a competent builder to execute the project.
Understand client’s needs and goals
Help develop programmatic requirements for the project
Define the scope of the project
For additions and renovations-field measuring and existing condition drawings
Analyze the site conditions to determine how the site will impact the project
Review code and zoning regulations such as setbacks, building height and lot coverage
Study design alternatives
Prepare schematic renderings-plan and elevation drawings of the building project, usually in sketch form
Prepare schematic site plans–usually in sketch form
Prepare a preliminary estimate of construction cost based on area, volume or other unit costs to determine if the scope of the project is attuned to the client’s budget
Commences after client approval of the Schematic Design Phase
Prepare hardline plan, elevation and section scaled drawings
Prepare hardline drawings of site plans
Select construction type
Make material selections, finish selections, choose mechanical systems
Review decisions and selections to ensure the design is evolving in accord with the initial design intent
Make design decisions to accomplish final recommendations, pricing and budgeting
Revisit the preliminary estimate of construction cost as the design becomes more clarified. This often involves asking contractors to prepare preliminary estimates
Commences after client approval of Design Development Phase
Create detailed construction drawings and specifications outlining the work to be done, materials, workmanship, finishes and equipment required
Prepare documents for bidding
Provide assistance to client or contractor with filing construction documents required for the approval of governmental agencies having jurisdiction over the project
Revisit the preliminary estimate of construction cost to determine if changes in project scope, requirements or market condition will affect cost
This phase is not always required. Frequently clients have already selected a contractor.
Advise the client as to qualifications of bidders and the bids received
Make recommendations on the award of a construction contract
Assist client with technical information for preparation of construction contract
If a competent, trustworthy contractor is selected many smaller projects do not require Construction Administration
Review of shop drawings, schedules and samples – for conformance with drawings and specifications
Issue change orders when required due to field conditions or clients request
Perform site visits to ensure that construction is proceeding in accordance with the contract documents
Verify the amounts due to the contractor, ensure the work complies with contract documents, and confirm that progress has reached the specified stage
Support the client in obtaining and evaluating all bonds, guarantees, and other forms of insurance or security as stipulated by the construction contract.
Help establish the date of “substantial completion”
Help establish the date of “final completion”
Help the client obtain from the contractor a release of liens
Basic architectural services are complete when the project has been completed, and final certificate of payment has been made to the contractor
Existing Building Evaluation & documentation
Presentations to Planning & Zoning Boards
Pre-PurchaSE BUILDING EVALUATION