ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

The services that an architect typically provides include concept design development, preparation of construction documents, and construction administration. Architects also provide a wide variety of additional services including feasibility studies, architectural programming and project management.

Depending on the level of service requested of an architect the following are typically offered by either the architect or their consultants:

People seated at round tables listening to a speaker in a spacious room with cream-colored walls and a red floral decoration on the back wall.
Sketch of a chapel concept called 'All Souls Chapel,' showing a cross-shaped altar, accent wall, curtain, ceiling plane, steel truss, skylight, exist roof, and oculus, with labels for each feature.

PROJECT INCEPTION

This is where the planning of a project starts. Working together with the architect, the client shares their project needs, ideas and goals.

Two men sit at a table covered with architectural blueprints and drawings in an office. One man is writing, while the other is looking on thoughtfully.
A modern two-story building with large glass windows, surrounded by a landscaped area with trees, grassy patches, and outdoor seating, under a partly cloudy sky.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

During this stage the architect begins by preparing preliminary design sketches and concepts based on the client’s requirements and budget which help explore and illustrate possible options. The architect reviews the different options with the client going over the various pros and cons and responding to client input.

Group of people engaged in a discussion in a modern office with architectural blueprints on the desk.
Floor plan for a quarry venue with handwritten notes in red ink indicating entrance, exits, and structural details.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Once a schematic design is agreed upon and there is a clearer definition of the scope and quality of the finished project, the design development phase begins. Additional cost projections help determine whether or not the design conforms to the preliminary budget, or what, if any, adjustments need to be made.

Detailed architectural blueprint of a building's roof and wall sections, showing structural components, framing, supports, and construction details.
Hand-drawn sketch of a construction or engineering plan on a white sheet of paper with a black pen beside it.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

A continuation of the design development phase. Working drawings and specifications are developed after design concepts have been decided. These construction documents are what is required by the local municipalities in order to obtain building permits.  They are also used to solicit bids from the various contractors that will be required to build the project.

BIDDING + NEGOTIATION

An architect can advise on the choice of contractor by evaluating competitive bids. The architect assists in the bid evaluation and assists in the preparation of the contract between the client and the contractor. The architect may also recommend bringing a contractor on board early in the design as a team member.

Two construction professionals, wearing safety helmets and reflective vests, standing on a construction site with steel framing and equipment in the background.
Architectural wall detail with insulation, roofing, and exterior wall components labeled, including roof sheathing, pressure-treated blocking, siding, fascia, roofing details, soffit panel, insulation, brick veneer, flashing, and footing.

CONSTRUCTION + CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

The architect consults with the client and advises during construction. On-site visits help determine if construction is proceeding in general accordance with the construction document and design intent.  It is also the architect’s role to advise if the materials and workmanship meet acceptable standards.

Modern office lobby with seating area, reception desk, and several people engaging in conversations and working, along with indoor plants and large windows letting in natural light.
Architectural site plan of a property with a winding road leading to several structures, topographical contours, and a pond at the bottom right corner.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Programming, existing building measurements, site evaluation and planning, civil engineering, landscape design, interior design, record drawings, master planning, fundraising, rendering, etc.

An office space with multiple desks and chairs, large arched stained glass window, and several framed pictures on the walls. The room is well-lit with natural light and has wooden flooring.