Design development is an important part of the early design process in architecture.
In this guide, you’ll learn what they are and why they are so important to architecture firms.
You’ll also learn tips on how to move effectively and efficiently through this process with the help of the Monograph Project Planner.
What is design development?
The design development phase is an interim check between the schematic design and construction documentation phases. The name aptly describes this phase of design:
It is evolving – from a schematic concept to a more refined and detailed architectural idea.
This is where we evolve the design in detail by diving deep into finishes, materiality and system integrity.
Why is the design development phase so important?
The design development phase is an important part of the architectural design process – it saves time and money in the later stages of design and construction.
Design development can be used as a basis for cost forecasting in bids, providing the basis for construction estimate.
These documents may also be used as part of the early building permit approval process.
Elements for design development
As we develop the design, we will use all of these elements not only as outputs but as tools to explore our building design.
Typically, clients will also use these deliverables to obtain preliminary project prices.
plans
Floor plans and mirrored ceiling plans for all levels need to be fairly complete for this output.
The plans must be graphically complete except for simple formatting: rooms must be marked and numbered, doors must be marked, and details must begin.
Extensive plans shall be provided for the unique programmatic areas in the project such as lobbies, restrooms, auditoriums, modular housing units, classrooms, etc.
sections
The design development kit shall contain a series of section drawings, including building sections, wall sections and detail sections, to be drawn and detailed to scale.
Sections and section details should explain permissions, infrastructure, adjacent context, and other references that aid in understanding the programmatic design and intent.
heights
All building elevations must be included in the Design Development Kit, and building elevations extended to unique facade conditions with dimensions and material designations must be included in typical conditions.
The heights shall also include the location of all openings including doors and windows, both fixed and operable.
Materials
While the completion schedule need not be complete,
there should be an understanding of the basic materials for all elements of the architecture,
including the structure, envelope, and interior.
Materials should be explained in the drawings,
and coordinated graphically between the drawings. A draft finish schedule should be included,
indicating floor, wall, and ceiling finishes.
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