Architectural Design: INTRO. DESIGN PHASES /CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

Design Phases, participants and deliverables of each stage. Contract Documents

Architectural design is a complex activity that involves multiple levels of knowledge, communication, and production, even on a small project.

 

We architects need to speak our own language both in terminology and through conventions of drawings, which require countless rules about building codes, human dimensions, drawing standards, material properties, and relevant technologies.

 

The scope of construction documentation services will depend on:

  • Size and complexity
  • Number of disciplines involved
  • Stage/Phase of the project

 

Represents one of the major core competencies of architects, they must be able to make technically concise descriptions and execute drawings and other documentation for the proposed design (AIA).

 

The work requires knowledge of principles, conventions, standards, applications, and restrictions pertaining to the manufacture use of construction materials, components, and assemblies.

 

Architectural drawing technique refers to a style or quality of a drawing imparted by the individual drafter to the work. It is characterized by crisp black line work, lettering, consistency, and uniformity.

 

Architectural drawings should reflect the rigid line control of a mechanically produced drawing combined with the artistic expression conveyed through architecture.

 

The scope of construction documentation services will depend on the size and complexity of a project and the number of disciplines involved.

 

But size itself may not always be a driver.

 

In the United States The Uniform Drawing System (UDS) created by the CSI establishes standardized guidelines for organizing and presenting building design information, is a major portion of the U.S. National CAD Standard (NCS). It is used to organize and manage construction drawings for virtually any project and project delivery method, for the entire life cycle of a facility.