Schematic Design
The industry of architecture has developed a five phase design, permitting and construction process for architectural services. The five phases are Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction (Permit) Documents, Bidding and Negotiations and Construction Administration. After the feasibility study and project programming have been completed the design process begins. The first step in the design process is Schematic Design.
What is Schematic Design?
Schematic design is the preliminary building design process. Preliminary building floor plans, elevations and building cross sections are created for the client’s review and approval. During this phase a conceptual black and white three (3D) dimensional sketch or colored drawing of the proposed building, will be created to give the client a sense of how the project will fit into the existing landscape.
The schematic design phase allows clients to see how we have interpreted the client’s vision, and allows for changes to the design before we move forward with the next step.
The Importance of Schematic Design
Once the schematic design has been created the client is able to reassess the cost of the project using the site design, floor plans, building elevations and other schematic design elements. Good design comes from the ability to find the perfect combination of numerous factors, spanning budget, environment and architectural vision. With a schematic design, the client can begin to make wise choices based on dimension drawings and factual information.