CHS Architecture Blog

The Five Phases of Design

2009-02-16T01:25:00.000-08:00

The architectural design process consists of five phases. As you begin working with an AIA architect, or consider hiring one, it's helpful to know where you are in the process and where it will take you. An AIA architect will orient you during each phase, and work with you to get the most value from each stage of the process. It's a time-tested method for establishing a close working relationship between you and your architect, and producing the very best buildings.

Phase 1: Originate
This first phase includes all of the discussions, thought, and exploration that lead to the moment when you realize you need to build something new. The phase ends with your decision to move forward with a project. When you reach the end of this phase, you can use this site to prepare yourself for working with an architect.

Phase 2: Focus
Here you define the project - its scope, features, purpose, and functionality. This is the time to select an architect (50KB, PDF), and establish an owner-architect agreement (50KB, PDF). Together with your architect, you develop and refine a "vision" for the project. Your architect leads you through a "programming" exercise to help you explore the needs of those who will live, work or play in the space you create. You will identify the services you need from your architect, and the design team will begin to form a cohesive relationship and a shared concept for the final building.

Phase 3: Design
Once the requirements of the project are determined, the design phase begins. Your architect gives shape to your vision through drawings and written specifications. Your input into this phase is vital, as you get the first glimpses, and then a more defined look at how your building will take shape. It is important to establish a clear decision-making process with your architect during this phase. The design phase ends when you agree to the plans that will guide construction.

Phase 4: Build
The contractor who will construct your building becomes the most active member of the team during this phase. Investments are made in materials, and timetables are extremely important. Good communication within the project team is critical, as the need for changes often arises. This is typically the time of highest stress for the project owner. Your architect will discuss changes and options with you, and ensure that alterations are compatible with your vision for the project.

Phase 5: Occupy
This phase beings the day the project is up and running and never really ends. It's where your satisfaction with the project is determined. If you are turning over the project to others who will ultimately use it, good communication during that process is important. Your architect can help ensure that the terms of your building contract were met, and can use the experience of this project to inform future work, should you team together again. For these reasons, it's a good idea to maintain a relationship with your architect.

20 Questions to Ask Your Architect

2009-02-16T01:22:00.000-08:00

This handy guide will help you learn more about the architect you are dealing with and ensure your project runs smoothly.

1. What does the architect see as important issues or considerations in your project?

2. What are the challenges of the project?

3. How will the architect approach your project?

4. How will the architect gather information about your needs, goals, etc.?

5. How will the architect establish priorities and make decisions?

6. Who from the architecture firm will you be dealing with directly? Is that the same person who will be designing the project? Who will be designing your project?

7. How interested is the architect in this project?

8. How busy is the architect?

9. What sets this architect apart from the rest?

10. How does the architect establish fees?

11. What would the architect expect the fee to be for this project?

12. What are the steps in the design process?

13. How does the architect organize the process?

14. What does the architect expect you to provide?

15. What is the architect's design philosophy?

16. What is the architect's experience/track record with cost estimating?

17. What will the architect show you along the way to explain the project? Will you see models, drawings, or computer animations?

18. If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees? How will these fees be justified?

19. What services does the architect provide during construction?

20. How disruptive will construction be? How long does the architect expect it to take to complete your project?

21. Does the architect have a list of past clients that you can contact?

Learn How Design Works for You

AIA Annual Design Drafting Competition

2009-02-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

The Annual Design Drafting Competition

AIA Vancouver cosponsors The Design Drafting Competition with Clark Public Utilities. The program requirements for the competition can be downloaded on this web page(see links below). The program is distributed each fall and competition winners are announced the last weekend of April at The Home and Garden Idea Fair at the Clark County Fairgrounds. More information and competition documents can be located here.

2008-2009_Design_Drafting_Competition_Information.pdf

2009 drawing files

2008-2009_Apendix_A___Apendix_B.pdf

AppendixD-WSEC

Optional download:

Site Plan PDF File

Photo Montage

Context Images / Surrounding Architecture

Architecture Knowledge Review Podcast

2009-02-15T12:27:00.000-08:00

Architecture Knowledge Review Podcast Series

Architecture Knowledge Review is a podcast series for design professionals, featuring interviews, discussions, and best practices by architects and other design professionals who are at the forefront of the profession. Visit this page often for more information on specific topics and presentations. AIA Podcast library can be located here.

Leadership Opportunities for Young Architects

2009-02-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.

- John Quincy Adams, 6th U.S. President, (1825-29)

Leadership is a daunting word and task for many people, especially those who are at the early years of their careers in the profession of architecture. Emerging architects and Associate AIA members are the future of the profession. It is important that emerging architects and Associate AIA Members understand the value of investing time and energy in service to the profession and the community.

Many young architects and Associate AIA members have schedule constraints, caused by workloads to meet the needs of employers and clients, while trying to plan and prepare for the ARE Exam, and balance a personal life. But never lose sight of the importance of engaging in outside activities that enrich your knowledge and give you valuable experience from participating in something you believe strongly about. continued

Test Your Knowledge Quizes - Architecture

2009-02-15T11:41:00.000-08:00

Test Your Knowledge - Architecture
How well do you know your Architecture and what the consumer is looking for... take the quizes and test your knowledge @ The National Association of Realtors®

QUIZ: Architecture

QUIZ: Buyers' Favorite Features

QUIZ: How well do you know buyers and sellers?