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Schematic Design
Once the project direction has been set in the initial design session, the process of defining the project begins. The schematic design encompasses several components. The drawing component consists of 1/8" scale plans and exterior elevations which are generally freehand but provide a to-scale, yet artistic depiction of the proposed building. Room sizes and locations are worked out for the first time. Size, shape, scale, and materials begin to be fleshed out. And the architect endeavors to think more about buildability of the house as he/she starts to build the house in his/her mind.
The second component often includes a list of specs and allowances that is architect-generated by collaboration with the owner. This helps complete an early picture of the project scope by defining the quality level of finishes. The goal at this stage then is to use this tool to get some contractor-input on project cost estimates.
This leads to the third component of schematic design which often occurs, which is some form of contractor interviews. Its exact format can vary from project to project, but it is most commonly an hour interview each with three contractors who are similar in skill and competence. Most often a client will select a contractor to work with based on their impressions from these interviews. So ideally, at the conclusion of the schematic design phase, the project design direction has been defined and possibly refined, a workable, realistic and comfortable budget has been established, and the project team has been solidified with the selection of a contractor. |
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