Description of Architectural Services

The role of the architect as an agent of the client covers a wide range of activities and responsibilities that can be broadly grouped into three phases: preliminary design, working drawing development and construction.

Preliminary Design

The purpose of this phase is to arrive at a suitable and sensitive initial design. The first priority for the architect is to listen to the client’s desires, concerns, needs and wants as well as to listen “between the lines” for the subtle and often formative details. It is also important for the architect to listen to the site, perceiving not only the topography and climate, but assimilating its essence. Early in this stage, the client is asked to openly express what they hope to achieve in the new structure, how they go about their daily activities and what is truly important in their lives.

During this phase, both the budget and the extent of sustainability-oriented design are discussed. These two factors are very important generative elements in the design of the project. A preliminary costing study is done during this phase using information from previous projects.

The architect requests and/or arranges for a topographical survey. As with other consultants that may be retained during the course of the project, the surveyor is normally paid directly by the client. The architect also performs a zoning and building code review and develops structural engineering and heating/cooling concepts. This may involve discussions with local authorities and consultants.

The architect distills this large collection of dreams, impressions and information into a set of sketches, which are then reviewed with the client. This review process may happen over a series of meetings to allow for the exploration of ideas and resolution of concerns.

Working Drawings

In this phase the preliminary sketches are developed into a set of working drawings and specifications so that construction costing may be finalized and construction of the project initiated. Close attention is paid to the all-important details in the design as they greatly contribute to the overall beauty, and therefore to the client’s enjoyment, of the building.

It is the practice of our office to determine and specify structural member sizing. However, most jurisdictions require that a structural engineer be retained for building projects. Please note that the fee is generally less than one percent of the construction cost. As well, local authorities may request that a geotechnical engineer be hired to assess existing soil and groundwater conditions. In our experience, the geotechnical engineering fee is typically less than that of the structural engineer. Heating /cooling and electrical engineers are generally not required for smaller projects. After client approval, the architect arranges and engages as required suitable and sensitive engineering consultants. In concert with engineering consultants, the architect continues to develop the structural and heating/cooling design. As well, the architect reviews all engineering drawings, requesting any necessary changes and ensuring compliance with architectural drawings.

It is also during this phase that a lighting plan is developed and light fixtures are designed. Please note that light fixture design is a minor additional fee.

Either towards the end of this phase or at the commencement of the next, the architect and the client select a contractor through an interview process. It is important that the contractor understand and embrace the architectural concepts and intentions of the building. When the drawings are substantially complete, the architect holds one or more information sessions with the selected contractor to answer any questions that may arise during the development of a final cost estimate. If a competitive bid process is used, the architect and the client review and compare the submitted construction cost bids.

Construction

It is during this phase that the working drawings and specifications are translated into the finished structure. To create a building of significant beauty, it is essential for all of the parties involved - client, architect and builder - to maintain a common heart and purpose throughout the construction process.

The architect submits completed architectural and engineering drawings to building inspection officials for permit issuance, answers any questions from authorities (often related to the uniqueness of the design) and discloses liability insurance information to authorities. Please note that all building permit fee payments are the responsibility of the client.

Along with the client, the architect arranges for construction to begin and assists in building layout. The architect also responds to the numerous and varied questions that arise during construction; reviews shop drawings as submitted by the contractor (the architect does not generally develop shop drawings); and discusses concerns raised by HPO representatives and building officials.

Throughout this phase, the architect ensures that the project is constructed in accordance with working drawings and specifications through periodic field reviews.