The architectural process is structured into distinct phases, each playing a critical role in shaping a project from concept to completion.

These phases provide a clear framework for decision-making, design development, and coordination with consultants and contractors. While every project is unique, following a structured process ensures efficiency, clarity, and alignment with client goals.

Part 03 • Architectural Project Phases, outlines everything from initial feasibility studies through construction administration, as well as supplemental services that can further enhance project outcomes. Understanding these phases helps set realistic expectations, manage budgets, and create a seamless path toward realizing a successful built environment.

Essential Architectural Project Phases

Foundational steps that guide a project from initial concept through construction, ensuring a structured, efficient, and well-coordinated design process

• Master Planning + Pre-Design + Global Feasibility
• Schematic Design
• Post-Schematic Design Feasibility
• Design Development
• Construction Documentation
• Permit Processing
• Bid Processing
• Construction Contract Administration
• Project Close out + Post Occupancy

Master Planning + Pre-Design + Global Feasibility

Master Planning, Pre-Design, and Global Feasibility set the foundation for a successful project and indentifies project timelines

MASTER PLANNING

Site Analysis + Constraints

• Evaluating zoning, setbacks, environmental factors, utilities, and access to determine development potential

Site + Context Integration

• Evaluating how the building interacts with its surroundings, including orientation, views, and environmental factors

Site Circulation

• Identifying the movement of people, vehicles, and services throughout a site, ensuring efficient, safe, and intuitive access and flow

PRE-DESIGN

Programming + Lifestyle or Business Mapping

• Establishing client objectives, functional needs, and space requirements to guide design decisions

Regulatory + Code Review

• Identifying local building codes, permitting requirements, and any discretionary approvals needed

Phasing + Project Schedule

• Developing an initial project schedule and identifying potential delays or permitting challenges

GLOBAL FEASIBILITY

Preliminary Budget + Cost Study

• Assessing project feasibility by estimating rough construction costs based on similar projects and industry standards

Risk Assessment + Feasibility

• Flagging high-risk elements early and providing a go/no-go recommendation to align expectations before design investment

Schematic Design

The conceptual phase where ideas take shape, establishing the project's overall vision, layout, and design direction

Concept Development

• Translating client goals into initial design ideas, massing studies, and spatial relationships

Preliminary Floor Plans + Layouts

• Establishing rough spatial organization, circulation, and functional relationships

Exterior Form + Aesthetic Exploration

• Defining massing, rooflines, and preliminary material concepts to shape the project’s architectural character

Client Review + Iterations

• Presenting design concepts for feedback and refining based on client input before moving forward

Post-Schematic Design Feasibility

Critical checkpoint that validates the schematic design against real-world costs, construction challenges, and project feasibility before moving into detailed design • Architects are not Cost Estimators

Contractor + Estimator Input

• Engaging contractors or cost consultants early to provide realistic pricing feedback

Refined Cost Estimation

• Developing a more detailed cost projection based on schematic drawings, materials, and current market conditions - using Contractor and / or Estimators

Value Engineering Options

• Identifying opportunities to optimize design, adjust materials, or phase construction while maintaining design intent

Budget Alignment + Client Decision Point

• Ensuring the project remains financially viable and giving the client the opportunity to refine scope before further investment

Design Development

Commences upon approval of the Schematic Design Phase, where a higher level of detail and further development of the building systems are undertaken

Detailed Architectural Refinement

• Developing floor plans, elevations, and sections with greater precision and clarity

Structural + Systems Coordination

• Collaborating with engineers to integrate structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, as well as energy calculations and specialty systems into the design

Material + Finish Selection

• Finalizing exterior and interior materials, finishes, and key architectural details

Budget Alignment + Client Decision Point

• Presenting refined drawings and specifications for approval before finalizing construction documents

Construction Documentation

Translates the refined design into a detailed, technical set of drawings and specifications required for permitting, bidding, and construction

Comprehensive Drawings + Specifications

• Developing detailed architectural, engineering, and specialty consultant drawings to include details and specifications for permitting + construction

Permit + Code Compliance

• Ensuring all drawings meet building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility requirements for approval

Material + Assembly Documentation

• Defining construction methods, material selections, and finish details for accurate execution

Quality Control + Technical Accuracy

• Conducting internal reviews to minimize errors, inconsistencies, or omissions before issuing for construction

Permit Processing

Ensures the project meets all regulatory requirements and obtains the necessary approvals for construction to proceed

Permit Application + Submission

• Preparing and submitting required documents to the appropriate regulatory agencies and ensuring the design aligns with local building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility regulations

Agency Coordination + Approvals

• Communicating with permitting officials, responding to inquiries, and facilitating approvals

Plan Check + Revisions

• Addressing agency comments, making necessary revisions, and resubmitting documents as needed

Permit Approvals + Tracking

• Monitoring approval timelines and securing all necessary permits for construction to begin

Bid Processing

Facilitates contractor selection by providing clear construction documents, managing bid inquiries, and ensuring competitive and accurate pricing for the project

Bid Package Preparation

• Compiling and issuing construction drawings, specifications, and requirements to potential bidders

Contractor Outreach + Prequalification

• Identifying qualified contractors, reviewing credentials, and ensuring they meet project standards

Bid Coordination + Bid Review

• Answering bidder questions, issuing addenda, and clarifying project scope as needed, as well as evaluating bids for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with goals

Contractor Selection + Award

• Assisting in final negotiations and executing agreements to transition into the construction phase

Construction Contract Administration

Ensures that the project is built according to the design intent, resolving issues, coordinating with the contractor, and verifying quality throughout construction

Site Visits + Progress Monitoring

• Conducting regular site observations to verify compliance with construction documents

Submittal + Shop Drawing Review

• Reviewing contractor-provided materials, products, and fabrication drawings for alignment with design specifications

Requests for Information (RFI) Management

• Responding to contractor inquiries and providing clarifications as needed

Quality Control + Issue Resolution

• Identifying and addressing construction challenges to maintain design integrity

Change Order Evaluation

• Assessing and negotiating modifications to scope, cost, or schedule when necessary

Punch List + Final Walkthrough

• Conducting inspections, documenting deficiencies, and ensuring corrections before project completion

Project Closeout + Project Handover

• Assisting with final approvals, warranties, and as-built documentation for project turnover

Project Close out + Post Occupancy

Post-Occupancy Check-In

• Following up with clients after move-in to assess functionality, comfort, and any necessary adjustments

Building Performance Evaluation

• Reviewing energy efficiency, material durability, and user experience to refine future designs

Professional Photography + Documentation

• Capturing high-quality images of the completed project for portfolio, marketing, and publication purposes

Client Testimonials + Case Studies

• Showcasing successful collaborations through interviews, reviews, and project summaries

Ongoing Relationship & Future Opportunities

• Staying connected with clients for potential future projects, renovations, or referrals

Supplemental Architectural Project Phases

Phases that enhance the design process, address specific project needs, and provide greater clarity, flexibility, and value throughout development and construction

3 Dimensional Visualization + Renderings

• Digital modeling, photorealistic renderings, and animations to bring design concepts to life, helping clients visualize the project before construction

Discretionary Approvals

• Manages complex entitlement processes, including zoning variances, planning board reviews, and environmental assessments, ensuring regulatory compliance for approval

Record Conditions

• Documents existing site and building conditions through surveys, field measurements, and as-built drawings, providing an accurate base for renovations or new construction

Sustainability Consulting Coordination

• Integrates environmental strategies by coordinating energy modeling, material selection, and certification processes (LEED, WELL, Passive House) to optimize building performance