The Design Development Phase is when we transition from preliminary designs that show the general scope and look of the project to the detailed design and drawings that show all the components of the project and how they fit together.  

 

All the interior design aspects of the project are developed including selections of finishes, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures and appliances.  Interior elevations are drawn for all customized spaces.  Also, exterior elevations become fully resolved and critical control details are established.

 

We bring in engineering consultants to the design team.  Both a structural engineer and a civil engineer are usually required and are in contract directly with the homeowners.  We also coordinate with other specialists as required for areas such as like audio-visual, acoustics, sustainability, energy efficiency and mechanical engineering.  These additional consultants also in contract directly with the homeowner.

 

We issue templates to all the consultants on the design team.  All specialists add their project requirements to their own drawings.  After our review and approval, these consultants finalize their designs and we integrate their drawings into our set of drawings to make a final bid set and, subsequently, a contract documents.

 

We also initiate the municipal review process during this phase.  Depending on the project and municipal requirements, the sequence of reviews could include the Board of Appeals, the Planning Board, the Architectural Review Board and the Building Permit Application.  This review process starts during this phase and continues through the Construction Documents Phase.

Phase 3:  Design Development