What to Expect from Your Architect: A Guide to the Architectural Design Process

Whether you’re planning a new commercial facility, updating an existing building, or developing a community space, choosing the right architect is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. But what exactly does an architect do and what should you expect when working with one?

At Design 3 Architecture (D3A), we believe that good design is built on collaboration, communication, and clarity. Here’s what the architectural process looks like and how a professional architect guides every step of the way.

1. Understanding the Architect’s Role

   An architect does more than draw plans. They serve as your project’s creative lead, technical expert, and trusted advisor. They deal with balancing design vision with functionality, safety, and budget.
   
   Your architect coordinates consultants, manages documentation, and ensures your project meets building codes and local regulations. In short, they transform your ideas into a buildable, efficient, and compliant reality.

2. The Five Phases of Architectural Design

   Phase 1: Schematic Design
   This is where ideas take shape. Your architect listens to your needs, reviews your goals, and creates preliminary layouts that show how the project might look and function. At D3A, this phase includes:
   – Reviewing your project goals, site, and budget.
   – Exploring multiple design options and layouts.
   – Preparing concept drawings and a preliminary cost estimate.
   
   Phase 2: Design Development
   Once a direction is chosen, the design becomes more detailed. The size, character, materials, and systems of the project are defined. D3A ensures every design choice aligns with your functional goals and financial plan.
   
   Phase 3: Construction Documents
   Detailed construction drawings and specifications are prepared. This is the “blueprint” contractors use to build. D3A also coordinates all necessary consulting engineers (civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical) to ensure every component integrates seamlessly.
   
   Phase 4: Bidding and Negotiation
   If your project is being competitively bid, your architect can help you evaluate contractor proposals, answer bidder questions, and assist with contract preparation. D3A’s team supports clients through this process to ensure transparency and alignment with project goals.
   
   Phase 5: Construction Administration
   During construction, your architect should be retained to remain actively involved. D3A would visit the site to monitor progress, review contractor submittals, and confirm that the work meets the design intent. We also would review payment requests and help resolve any design-related issues that arise during construction.

3. Additional Architectural Services

   Many projects require services beyond the basics. A full-service architecture firm like D3A can provide:
   – Interior design and casework detailing
   – Landscape and site planning
   – Feasibility and site analysis studies
   – 3D renderings and visualizations
   – Post-occupancy evaluations
   – Coordination with specialized engineers and consultants
   
   From programming and code review to project management and visualization, D3A offers the experience and flexibility to meet your project’s unique needs.

4. Why Choose Design 3 Architecture

   Since 1982, Design 3 Architecture has delivered thoughtful, functional, and enduring design solutions across Pittsburgh and the surrounding region. Our team brings decades of experience in commercial, retail, municipal, and institutional architecture, with a reputation for quality and collaboration.