Architectural Design Process: What’s Involved?

The architecture process is an exciting foray into the construction of your new home or property. And while your architect will take care of the entire process, it does make sense that you understand the basics and stages of what’s involved. 

The process itself is one that marries creative concepts with an actual, functional design. As architects, it’s our job to take into consideration the client’s needs, the context of the property, and the planning instruments to create a project that is not only constructed in line with National Construction Code and Australian Standards, but also integrates seamlessly with the environment.

Put simply – the architectural design process serves as a framework that organises the entire building and construction project into a series of stages that cover all of the necessary works for the development of the building. Let’s get into what those ‘stages’ look like in the real world and how they affect the time taken to build a home.

7 stages of the architectural design process

1. Analysis phase

The Analysis phase is a preplanning phase that forms the foundation of a successful project. This is where we analyse the area, the site, and the building from multiple aspects such as history, characteristics, limitations, problems, and planning codes. 

We then move on to understanding the brief, trying to delve into any small details that can contribute to the project. Once we have collected all that information, we can verify if the budget fits the scope and vice versa.

At Crush Architecture, our analysis phase varies from the average architectural process as we have our own framework. We begin with what we call a ‘diagnosis’, where we chat about your ideas, budget, and timeframe. From there, we’ll take it away to create a design analysis so that we can be completely upfront and transparent about the feasibility of the project from the get-go.

2. Conceptual design

Once we’ve confirmed the strategy we’re going to go ahead with, the next phase is to develop that idea and translate it into the design. The concept phase is more schematic, where creative sketches and physical models begin to take shape.

From there design work will involve the addition of the core plans of the building, including details about the site plan and layout, utility systems, and structural elements. 

This phase provides a more detailed understanding of how the building will look and function. In presenting these conceptual designs, our goal here is to ensure that we’re representing as many of those goals and ideas that we spoke about initially.

As you can imagine, this step is important as it sets the tone and overall creative direction for the rest of the architectural design process. Get ready to see your ideas come to life! 

3. Design development (DD)

Once we’ve got the green light, we can then proceed with design development, which involves refining the chosen concept design to include more details in a digital form. You’ll get drawings, schedules, specifications, and a 3D model. By this stage, we’ll have planned:

• Floor plans for the layout of the building and its spaces, featuring measurements, room labels, and the functional connection between spaces.

• Structural designs with the support of a structural engineer to ensure the stability of the building while retaining the core design elements. 

• Listed recommendations for materials, finishes, fixtures, and fittings to meet the project’s aesthetic and functional goals.

• A visual representation of the building’s elevations and sections (both exterior and interior).

At this stage, we work with clients to make further adjustments to the proposed design, culminating in a sign-off for approval of the development design. 

4. Development application

The development application stage of the architectural design process is where the plans for the project are submitted in a formal proposal to the relevant local government authority, like your local council. After the application has been assessed, the council will then issue a development approval (DA) to signify that the project complies with the local building standards and restrictions. 

Attaining DA is a mandatory requirement for almost all architectural projects to begin the building process, unless your project is eligible for a different pathway called complying development. Architects will work on getting approval and make any necessary changes based on feedback from the council. 

5. Construction documentation

Before construction work can begin, contractors and builders will need detailed construction documentation to guide their building processes. We’ll create construction documentation outlining the specifications of the design plans to assist with the execution of the construction work. 

The construction documentation will include any council conditions as well as follow the NCC (National Construction Code) and any relevant Australian Standards.

6. Bidding and negotiation

To engage contractors, we will undergo either a tender process or a private negotiation. 

The tender process involves inviting a panel of builders to present their tender based on the documentation provided. We’ll then select the right contractors for the project and client goals.

A private negotiation involves bringing in a builder early on in the design stage so the builder is familiar with the project. 

7. Contract administration

The last phase of the architectural design process is contract administration. Once the team of contractors has been confirmed, architects will use a contract published by the Architect Australian Institute that protects both client and contractor parties. From there, the project will proceed with construction work under the supervision and assistance of the architect.

Architects will generally work directly with builders and contractors, making regular site visits to provide additional context or guidance, as well as to ensure that all ongoing work meets the requirements of the design and is free from defects.

There will be a Certificate of Occupancy provided when construction is completed and all required inspections are performed. This certificate allows the project owner or their tenants to occupy and utilise the building. 

From there – it’s over to you! You get to enjoy your new home in peace. Of course, we’ll continue to check in – we want to make sure you’re as happy with your new home as we will be with the opportunity to create it.