An architect can be engaged by a client to look after the whole process of a house build; from initial discussions, through to construction and final completion.

The four steps for a new home or renovation are as follows:

The following discussion only details the first part of an architect’s service, which is the Preliminary Design.

Step 1 – Preliminary Design

The Preliminary Design usually commences with the Architect meeting with the Client and preparing a Design Brief, or the client’s “wish list.” The Design Brief includes detailed requirements of what the client wishes to have in the new home, such as the number of rooms, room sizes, layout overview and key relationship of spaces. The design brief should also outline other significant items, including possible styles, aesthetics and budget.

The architect will then visit the site, often as part of the design brief meeting, and take notes about the land that the home will be sited. These notes may detail the surrounding environment, such as infrastructure, properties and landscape. Additionally, the orientation of the block is also noted for solar options, appropriate views, the fall of the site for levels, and any other important local items that are relevant to the new home.

Once the architect and the client are happy with the design brief and all information has been exchanged, the architect will begin the process of putting “pen to paper.” This involves drafting a proposal of the new home plan. The process duration depends on the client’s wants and needs, as the architect may need to produce several options to fulfil the design brief. Each design complies with the brief, however only one design is usually preferred by the client. Once the Architect has decided he or she has drafted the best design to answer the brief, the Preliminary Designs, or drawings, are presented to the client for further comments.

Although the Preliminary Design usually answers the original Design Brief, it is common the new design will present alterations to that brief. The client then has a chance to evaluate the Preliminary Design and make changes to the brief, if they wish, before progressing to the next stage of Design Development.