Our process
Responsive Designs, Architects, will meet with the Client for a complimentary initial meeting to discuss the scope of the project, the project budget, and the needs and wants of the Client. From the information gathered at this meeting, a proposal will be generated for the Client's review. This proposal outlines the architectural services that Responsive Designs offers for the project, and gives a projected architectural budget for each service. Typically, Responsive Designs services are charged at an hourly rate. For a new home the architectural fees are about 2-5% of the construction budget, but can vary depending on how involved Responsive Designs is in the interior design and construction management for the project. Design ideas are presented both by manual sketches, and digital cad drawings. Permit drawings are entirely cad produced. 3-D massing modeling can be provided.
Each client is unique, and we'll customize our process to meet your needs. We typically follow the standard guidelines outlined below for the architectural design process:
programming
This phase consists of gathering information regarding the spatial, functional, and budgetary needs and aesthetic preferences of the project. Some of this is done at the initial meeting as this information is needed for generating a proposal. A timeline for design and construction is also discussed.
existing conditions
Site conditions, including access, solar, and views, will be evaluated. Critical site dimensions and zoning information is obtained. If the design involves a remodel or renovation to an existing building, this phase also includes measuring the building to produce as-built scaled floor plans, sections and exterior elevations. These drawings are necessary for further development of design plans
schematic design
Schematic floor plan design solutions and options are generated based on your programming and existing conditions criteria and presented to you. Proposed or existing landscape features, including but not limited to driveway, courtyard, patios, etc., will be discussed and their relationships to each other and to the building analyzed and incorporated into the schematic design. These designs will be refined, incorporating your comments, and schematic building elevations will be presented until a final design solution is accepted. This is a very interactive phase between the Client and the Architect. A builder can be introduced at the end of this phase to form an integrated design team, and help with construction estimates.
design development
These services consist of designing interior casework, trim, miscellaneous design details, as well as assisting you in the selection of finishes, electrical and plumbing fixtures, etc. Window style and placement is finalized in this phase. Mechanical systems are evaluated and specified. This phase usually occurs concurrently with the Building Permit Drawings Phase.
building permit drawings
Building Permit Drawings consist of scaled floor plans, elevations, sections, outline specifications, and construction details. They will be of sufficient detail to obtain a building permit, price and construct the project. The amount of detailed information regarding interior finishes will be provided as requested by the Owner.
Construction Documents include the scaled plans of Building Permit Drawings, but are more detailed than Building Permit Drawings, usually incorporating interior elevations, finishes, and complete construction specifications. Most residential construction does not require this degree of detail for a successful project. Construction Documents are usually produced for commercial or institutional projects that are being bid competitively.
construction administration
Site visits are made during construction to observe the progress of the work, review any changes that may occur in the field and/or to assist the Contractor throughout the construction process. Field reports can be generated and distributed to relevant parties. Applications for Payments can be verified for work completed.