S c h e m a t i c    D e s i g n

Schematic design establishes the big picture concept.  Drawings show massing, views and spatial relationships.  We work closely with our clients and fellow professionals to create the best design solution for your goals, site, timeline and budget.  Receiving a construction budget estimate at the conclusion of this phase is recommended. 

The schematic design documents guide the project’s development through to completion.  In projects with multiple clients and owners, it is especially important that these documents represent the common goal, agreed upon by all participants in the design process.  This collaboration is essential.  Architectural Schematic Design fees are often 15% of the total design fee for a project. 

The documents often created in this phase of work include: 

·   Site analysis drawings showing legal constraints, human and vehicular circulation, the motion of the sun, direction of wind, etc.

·   Diagrams of spatial relationships between building components, the site, and any built or significant natural context.

·   Design drawings showing massing and form.

·   Creative documents that show options including floor plans, sections, perspectives and models.

·   A collection of images which serve as a touchstone for key ideas or feelings important to the project.

·   Three dimensional representations, either images and walkthroughs created with 3-D modeling software or models built from wood or cardboard.

·   Building code research allows us to determine how the building will be constructed based on the type of use (occupancy), size, and site limitations.