The Design Process

 

The steps below describe the design process from beginning to end. However, every project is unique and the scope of work required beyond Programming will vary accordingly. As such, this process will be customized to suit your project and ensure that you only receive (and pay for) the services you need. 

Programming (P):

To design any space, it is critical to first define the requirements and identify the site conditions that might impact decision making along the way. The more information reviewed at this stage, the better informed the design solution will be. The most useful data includes:

  • design and construction budgets

  • existing architectural drawings (for renovations, drawings can be created using site measurements)

  • schematic work by other professionals (architect, engineers, general contractor, etc)

  • measurements & photos of existing site, if applicable

  • description of activities and services to be accommodated

The document created in this phase (the Program) will be used to determine the scope of work and project fee, as well as the design schedule.  

Schematic Design (SD):

This is the ‘big picture’ phase. The design work has begun but the function, scale, relationships and materials palette are being expressed in broad strokes. Coordination with the other professionals on the design team is established in order to ensure a cohesive strategy. The result is a feasible concept, presented in a way that clearly expresses the design intent. Tasks include:

  • developing a schematic space plan, including furniture layout

  • producing elevations of significant design features

  • selecting key furnishings, fixtures and equipment

  • providing options for architectural finishes (walls, floors, ceiling, woodwork)

In addition to the interior designer, your design team may include a project architect, one or more engineers (structural, electrical, mechanical), and a general contractor (GC). Commercial projects may also require additional consultants such as commercial kitchen or A/V specialists.

Design Development (DD):

During the DD phase, all aspects of the concept are augmented and the minutia of the design solution are defined and described. Technical features and construction details are explored and any issues found unresolved at the end of the SD phase are addressed. Tasks include:

  • refining the space plan and developing the lighting strategy

  • completing elevations and construction details

  • designing and coordinating custom millwork and furnishings

  • confirming architectural finishes and hardware

  • coordinating equipment, plumbing and electrical fixtures with other professionals as required.

Up to 50% of a project may be spent in this phase; a thorough DD package leads to more accurate pricing, minimizes errors in construction and results in less time and money spent on changes later on.

Construction Documentation (CD):

The drawings created in the CD phase become the legal documents which will be used for construction. The assembled package is labelled IFC (Issue for Construction) and where applicable, will become part of the architects IFC drawing set: At this time, design work is fully developed and includes all the technical information required to build. These documents include:

  • floor, ceiling, furniture and electrical plans

  • elevations

  • construction details

  • schedules (doors, walls, windows as required)

  • written specifications (finishes, hardware, fixtures and equipment)

 Any design changes required after IFC will incur additional fees at an hourly rate.

Project Administration (PA):

The main focus of the PA phase is to observe construction. Milestone site visits are scheduled throughout the building process to coincide with inspections if applicable. The designer works closely with the GC, and acts as an agent for the client to ensure construction is progressing in compliance with the IFC package. Tasks include:

  • Reviewing shop drawings for architectural woodwork prior to fabrication

  • Reviewing submittals and alternates proposed by the client or general contractor

  • Reviewing rough-in locations for plumbing and electrical

  • Confirming locations of framing and blocking for ceiling and wall-mounted features

  • Issuing change orders, as approved by the client, to address any necessary revisions

  • Providing additional information to others on the design team as required

  • Completing a deficiency report to address any errors or omissions once construction has concluded

If you have any questions regarding the above process or how it applies to your project, please don't hesitate to get in touch !