The Architectural Design Process: Stages, Time and Fees

An architectural project starts with a written brief, takes shape through sketch and schematic design, and becomes buildable through permit and construction documents. Each stage rests on the approval of the one before, so the most expensive change is the decision that was not made early. This guide explains the stages you go through with an architect, and what drives time and fees.

1) Brief and site analysis

How many people will live or work there, which spaces are needed, is growth planned, what is the budget? These questions become a written brief. At the same stage the site’s zoning conditions, orientation, slope, views and surroundings are studied. The earlier survey and ground information arrive, the fewer revisions follow.

2) Sketch and concept

The architect turns the brief and site analysis into several alternative layouts and massing options. The goal of this stage is to find the right option, not to draw detail. Changes are cheapest here; settling your decisions now speeds up everything that follows.

3) Schematic / preliminary design

The chosen sketch becomes scaled plans, sections and elevations; room sizes, levels and the material approach are set. The first realistic estimate of construction cost is possible at this stage. Coordination with structural and services engineers should begin here; if column positions and service shafts are added to the plan later, the plan breaks.

4) Permit design

This is the set of drawings submitted to the authority, showing compliance with regulations. Together with the engineering designs it forms the core of the permit application. The format and content the authority requires vary with local regulations; incomplete or non-compliant drawings send the application back and add time.

5) Construction details and site support

The permit design shows what the building will be; construction details show how it will be built. Details for windows and doors, stairs, wet areas, facade and interiors let the contractor price and build correctly. Many architects also offer periodic site inspection during construction; the scope of that service should be written into the contract separately.

What drives time and fees?

Building size and complexity, how quickly decisions are made, the number of revisions, and the scope of service (permit design only, or details and site support included). In many countries professional bodies publish minimum fee scales; the Chamber of Architects’ scale in Turkey is one example. When comparing quotes, compare scope before the total: a quote that includes details and site support will naturally be higher than one covering the permit design only.

Common mistakes

1) Starting without a written brief: the architect draws from guesses and revisions multiply. 2) Asking for major changes after schematic design: the engineering designs are redrawn too. 3) Building from the permit design alone: details are missing and decisions are rushed on site. 4) Not stating the number of revisions in the contract: the most common cause of disputes over extra fees. 5) Comparing quotes on price alone: two quotes with different scope cannot be compared.

Frequently Asked Questions