As described in previous articles, architectural services are broken into five phases. The fourth phase, and most time intensive, is the construction documents (CD) phase. This is when the architect, structural engineer, interior designer, landscape architect, and specialty consultants design and draw the building in detail, producing a set of drawings and specifications that the contractor can build from. The construction documents advance the design from an architectural and aesthetic standpoint, while providing the necessary information to coordinate building systems and ensure constructability. This phase is coordination-intensive and includes routine interaction between the architect, consultants, contractors, and the owner.
During the CD phase, the architect serves as communicator and coordinator across all the members of the design team, owners, and contractor and ensures design intent is executed across disciplines. At this stage, details are developed to reinforce the floor plans, building sections, and elevations previously designed. The design team gathers sample materials and develops a complete material palette. Mechanical, electrical, and lighting drawings are developed in conjunction with fixture selections. Coordination of various building elements, systems, and details continues between consultants. The architect will review structural, landscape, interior design, and other specialty drawings for consistency with the architectural design intent, owners’ goals, and the work of other consultants. The architect will also design specific details such as trim and interior millwork, as well as exterior elements like transitions between various materials and how windows and doors will integrate with wall assemblies.
A meeting cadence is set to facilitate the Owner’s decision making and detailed meeting notes are kept to document these decisions. Typically, this involves the owner meeting with the architect numerous times over a series of months. Often, additional meetings with the contractor provide feedback on feasibility and budget. If necessary, the design team can issue a 50% complete set of CDs which can be used by the contractor to provide an updated budget.