Design services are typically broken down into the following phases:
These phases, while somewhat fluid, proceed in a relatively straight line. Larger decisions and issues that affect the project as a whole are dealt with in the initial phases and grow increasingly detailed as it progresses.
The predesign phase is where we get an overall picture of the project, both physically (through existing conditions drawings) and conceptually (through program development, schedule and budget). In a renovation or addition project, the first step is to measure the building and input the data into a computer drafting program. There will also be a personal meeting to create a written "program" that outlines the requirements of the project – what spaces will be needed and how they should “feel”, how the building will be used and by whom.
At the end of this phase we have a set of drawings in that give an accurate picture of the building or site as it exists, and a written vision we can refer to throughout the project to assure it is progressing as planned. The program can be (and often is) fine tuned during the schematic design phase without a large effect on the scope of design work.
The schematic design phase is essentially a translation of the program into drawing format. Ideas and thoughts expressed in the program are put down on paper. Scheduled progress meetings ensure that the project truly represents what the client wants. Generally, reNew Design Studio will prepare sketches to show several potential solutions to the program. The client selects one, combines several, and/or requests specific changes.
It is important that the larger decisions made at this stage are final because backtracking after the next phase has started can mean wasted time. Also during this phase, the coordination with the appropriate government entities is initiated to make sure the scheme meets their requirements.
Design development is typically the phase where much of the work in the project is done. It is during this phase that the approved schematic design is made to work precisely in the existing building and is entered into a computer aided drafting program. The issues that are dealt with in this phase include, but are not necessarily limited to:
Once the design development drawings are approved, any additional required detail is added to become construction documents. A full set of construction documents generally contains floor plans with dimensions, building elevations, details, and sections through the building at a level of specificity required for permits to be issued and work to be bid and performed by contractors.
The construction documents may also contain a “specifications” sheet (sometimes prepared as a completely separate document). The specifications spell out minimum quality requirements for building materials, methods of installation, and certain code requirements that must be followed. For large projects, the specifications are usually written in a separate bound booklet.
By this point, all necessary groups are aware of the project scope and the permits can generally be obtained in arelatively short amount of time.
