Design Development
In the design development phase, we take the foundational ideas from the schematic design and create a comprehensive, three-dimensional representation of your home that includes material studies. This stage brings together input from consultants and additional team members, ensuring that the project evolves into a detailed, buildable vision. Through scaled drawings, we’ll explore how the structure, materials, and architectural details reflect the initial design concept. Together, we’ll review whether the design aligns with your goals, verify that everything is in balance, and address any final adjustments needed to bring your vision to life.
As we progress, our team will examine how essential systems—such as HVAC and lighting—integrate to ensure your home operates efficiently and seamlessly. This is also the ideal time to address any desired changes; once design development is approved, making alterations, particularly to structural elements, can be costly once construction begins. Speaking up now can save both time and additional expenses for revisions later in the process.
At the end of this phase, you’ll receive accurately scaled drawings illustrating your project as it will appear once completed. These include a detailed site plan, floor plans, and exterior elevations with window and door schedules that help with the cost estimating process. Here, you have another chance to review and provide input for any final refinements. Additionally, the architect begins selections for interior finishes and fixtures, while the contractor refines the preliminary pricing started in the schematic phase. These detailed drawings will then serve as the foundation for the next stage: creating construction documents.
Lessons Learned:
- Price Windows and Doors During Design: Did you know that an exterior window and door package can represent 5-15% of total construction cost in a modern home? Consider using our window and door schedules to obtain early pricing from local window manufacturers and retailers to help make decisions on window and door function, brand, trim, and technical features during this design phase. There are great options for every budget but getting a handle on total package cost early can help the owner make important decisions about design.
- Value Engineer During Design: To keep your custom design aligned with your budget and schedule, consider bringing a builder into the conversation early to explore value engineering options and minimize the need for later redesigns.
- Hire a Structural Engineer: Bringing in an engineer at this phase is critical to making key design decisions such as framing and foundation strategy as well as targeting a permit intake date. Harmony Architecture has great working relationships with many Structural Engineering firms throughout the Pacific NW to help streamline the process and keep costs down.