A Comprehensive Guide to Hiring an Architect: Understanding the Architectural Design Process
Many people are unfamiliar with what architects do and the vital role they play in bringing a project to life. Architects are not just designers; they serve as a client’s representative throughout the entire design and construction process, helping to navigate its complexities while ensuring the result aligns with the client’s vision, needs, and budget. Hiring an architect means having a trusted advisor who can translate ideas into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces while managing regulations, technical requirements, and contractor coordination.
At Ziese Architecture, we recognize that every project is unique. Our goal is to make the architectural process seamless and efficient while delivering innovative, high-quality designs. Whether you’re embarking on your first project or have prior experience, we guide you through each phase, ensuring informed decisions and a successful outcome. Below is an overview of the architectural design process.
1. Pre-Design & Feasibility Analysis
The first phase is all about gathering information and setting a strong foundation for the project. This includes understanding the client's vision, conducting site evaluations, and reviewing regulatory requirements. We assess site conditions, zoning restrictions (rules that determine what can be built where), and city regulations to determine feasibility. Our team conducts thorough code research (a review of laws and safety standards) to ensure compliance with legal requirements. If challenges arise, we explore alternative solutions, such as variance approvals (special permissions to build outside standard regulations), to make the project viable. Additionally, we consider environmental and community concerns and engage in discussions with authorities to identify specific project requirements. This phase generally results in drawings of the site and what is currently on it.
Example of a Survey and As-Built Drawing
Deliverables:
Site analysis report (study of existing site conditions)
Zoning and jurisdictional requirements identification
Preliminary code research
Feasibility study and recommendation report
As-Built drawings (drawings of what is already on the site if applicable)
Site survey (drawing showing topography and site features)
2. Concept Design
During this phase, we establish the project's form and function. We develop preliminary floor plans (a top-down view of the building’s layout), spatial organization (how spaces relate to each other), and overall massing (the general size and shape of the building), ensuring that the design aligns with the client's vision. Through this process we can begin to develop conceptual drawings, that will be further refined.
Examples of Spatial Relationship Diagrams
Deliverables:
Planning and zoning requirement identification
Spatial relationship diagrams (bubble diagrams, which show how spaces connect)
Architectural conceptual site plan (a rough layout of the building on the property)
Conceptual floor plans
Conceptual exterior elevations (flat drawings that show what the outside will look like)
3. Schematic Design
This phase refines the concept design into a structured architectural plan. We develop CAD-measured drawings (computer-aided design software-generated drawings with precise dimensions) that define project components within site constraints, regulatory guidelines, and the owner’s program. These drawings outline key spatial relationships and include approximate dimensions, areas, and volumes. During this phase, additional analysis ensures that the design meets functional, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements before progressing.
Examples of Schematic Perspective Drawings by Nvision
Deliverables:
Code analysis
CAD-scale drawings
Architectural site plan
Floor plans
Interior elevations (drawings that show vertical spaces inside the building)
Key architectural details (specific construction features and materials)
Perspective drawings or 3D models
4. Design Development
At this stage, technical components such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural systems are integrated into the design. The architectural drawings are refined to include material selections, finishes, and construction details, ensuring the project is structurally and functionally sound. Coordination with engineering consultants is crucial at this stage to confirm that all building systems work harmoniously. Outline specifications (a list of materials and construction methods) are also created to define the quality levels of major materials.
Example of a Developed Drawing Set
Deliverables:
Updated CAD scale drawings:
Architectural site plan
Floor plans
Reflected ceiling plan (shows lighting and ceiling elements)
Interior elevations
Exterior elevations
Building and wall sections (drawings that cut through a structure to show details)
Key architectural details
Outline specifications for materials and finishes
5. Construction Documents
In this phase, we prepare comprehensive construction drawings required for permitting and contractor bidding. These detailed documents ensure compliance with building codes and streamline approval processes with city officials. The construction documents provide contractors with the necessary information to accurately price and build the project.
Examples of Architectural Details
Deliverables:
Title sheet and project data
Code analysis
Architectural site plan and floor plans
Reflected ceiling plans
Exterior elevations
Architectural Details
6. Bidding & Permitting Assistance
We assist clients in selecting the right contractor by soliciting and evaluating competitive bids (pricing proposals from builders). Additionally, we manage the permitting process, coordinating with city officials and consultants to expedite approvals. Our expertise in regulatory requirements facilitates a smoother transition from design to construction. We also provide responses to city comments and attend meetings with building departments as required to support the approval process.
Deliverables:
Coordination with permit expeditor (a professional who speeds up permit approvals)
Responses to city comments related to architectural drawings
Attendance at final back-check meetings for building department approval
7. Construction Administration
Ziese Architecture provides ongoing support during construction, acting as the client’s advocate to ensure the project is executed according to design specifications. We collaborate with contractors, address unforeseen challenges, and conduct site visits to verify compliance with construction documents. Our role is to maintain quality control and ensure that any modifications align with the original design intent.
Images From Projects During Construction Administration
Deliverables:
Site visits to review construction progress
Coordination with contractors and consultants
Review of contractor submittals (shop drawings, product data, material samples)
Responses to Requests for Information (RFIs—questions from contractors needing clarification)
Review of change orders (modifications to the original design and budget) for consistency with design intent
9. Our Integrated Project Delivery Approach
We employ Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), a collaborative approach endorsed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). IPD brings together architects, owners, and contractors early in the design phase to optimize efficiency, minimize waste, and enhance project outcomes. By integrating real-time cost and scheduling insights into the design process, we ensure that approved plans remain on budget and on schedule, reducing the need for redesigns and unexpected costs during construction.
Get Started with Ziese Architecture
Embarking on an architectural project can feel overwhelming, but with a clear understanding of the process, you can make informed decisions with confidence. At Ziese Architecture, we are committed to guiding our clients through each phase, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience from concept to completion.
If you’re ready to start your project, contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore how we can bring your vision to life.