Understanding The Steps Involved In Building Design And Construction
Photo by Unseen Studio on UnsplashIntroduction
The steps required for having a home or building designed and constructed may seem like a daunting and complex process, but in this blog, we'll help you understand the main steps. At the end, you'll have a better understanding of the process and hopefully have the confidence to approach design & construct professionals to build your dream home or building.
Photo by Kimon Maritz on UnsplashThe Process
There are seven steps in the building design process:
- Pre-design
- Drawings
- Design Development
- Approvals
- Construction Documents
- Bidding/Negotiation
- Contract Administration
Pre-design
The first step is pre-design. During this stage, the initial briefing between the building designer and the client takes place. The client's needs and potential future needs are determined. This step also includes a survey of the site and measurements of any existing structures. The site will then be evaluated by the design team to determine if it is feasible for the project requirements. This is where the client will understand if the project is likely to succeed and meet expectations, in terms of scope and costs. Finally, budget, affordability, as well as timeframes are discussed.
Photo by Valerie V on UnsplashDrawings
This is when the project begins to take form. The floor plans are developed and there will be lots of interactions between the designer and the client to get feedback. Feedback from the client will then be used to further refine the direction of the project. This is one of the most important steps of the process as the client should inform the designer of any concerns they may have. Also, if there is anything they don't understand about the design, the client should not hesitate to tell the designer as this is the best time to make changes.
Photo by Sven Mieke on UnsplashDesign Development
The layout of equipment and furniture, as well as the materials and finishes are prepared. Detailed floor plans, roof and ceiling plans, and elevations are developed. The final design drawings are developed and information from various consultants are incorporated in. The client then approves the detailed design.
Photo by Daniel McCullough on UnsplashApprovals
This step involves obtaining concept drawings from the designer and submitting it to the certifier for review. The certifier is responsible for determining the relevant approvals required, such as Town Planning approval from the local council. Finally, the cerifier will review the design and approval will made if the design meets state and national codes and standards.
Photo by Romain Dancre on UnsplashConstruction Documents
This is where the design drawings progress into construction drawings. The documents developed during this stage includes, the site and floor plans, plan and section details, fittings and fixtures schedules, specifications and the pre-tender estimate (completed by the quantity surveyor). This step usually takes a long time as the designer is responsible for ensuring their designs are well-planned for construction.
Bidding/Negotiation
Now that the finalised construction documents have been developed, a construction company can be selected to build the project. During this stage, the building designer will assist in selecting a suitable contractor by looking at their experience, cost and quality of work.
Contract Administration
The project is now in the contractors hands, however, the building designer remains involved throughout the construction process. The designer is responsible for facilitating communication as well as ensuring the project remains on course to meet the client's expectations.
Conclusion
That's all the main steps involved in having a home or building designed and constructed. We hope the information outlined above has been useful in providing you with a better understanding of the steps involved, and ultimately, assists you in your journey of having your dream project progress from concept, through to completion of construction.
Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on UnsplashDesign & Construct Professionals
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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all First Nations Peoples. All services provided by ISA Collective and those represented by this firm are building design services only. ISA Collective is expressly not an architect and does not engage in architectural services, architectural design or architectural design services and all other terms that are defined in the Architects Act 2002 (QLD).
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