The Architectural Process

For some the prospect of taking on the development of a new building project can be daunting.  We've broken the process up into manageable phases and our experienced team at Adams Architectural Associates will guide you through the process to a successful end result.

We are often asked: "How do you, as the Architect, serve your client"?

Following is a step-by-step outline that explains how Adams Architectural Associates develops an architectural and design plan. The seven steps below are basic functions of most architectural firms.  Many of the features, however, are unique to our firm. Throughout the design and construction processes, meeting memos and correspondence are sent to those individuals involved so that everyone is kept informed and updated.  A written building program parallels this philosophy by recording all of the criteria that make up the total building requirements. (click links below for further description)

  1. Finances
  2. The Architectural Contract
  3. Establishing Scope of Work
  4. Schematic Design
  5. Design Development
  6. Construction Documents
  7. Bidding and Negotiation
  8. Construction Administration
  9. Post Occupancy

1. Communicating the financial needs of your project to the people of your church and successfully gaining their financial support is one part of the process. The success of any building project hinges on Finance.

  1. Capital Campaign
  2. Stewardship
  3. Bank Loans
  4. Memorial Gifts
  5. Sales Negations
  6. Church Bonds

2. The Architectural Contract The contract will include the extent of the services to be provided, the fee arrangements and a listing of all parties involved in the contract.

3. Establishing Scope of Work Our Scope of Work will outline:

  1. General Requirements
  2. Site Selection
  3. Financing
  4. Specific Project Requirements
  5. Time Schedule
  6. Contractor Selection Methodology
  7. Consultants
  8. Promotion / Public Relations
  9. Feasibility and Research Studies

4. Schematic Design Includes an updated Site Plan, information from the Program Master Plan and Space Utilization Study; a Floor Plan with Exterior Elevations; may include Interior Elevations or Building Sections; a color artist’s rendering of the building exterior; an a Master Plan & Future Building program booklet. The Schematic Design, booklet and rendering are generally used in the fund-raising process.

5. Design Development After the initial round of approvals, AAA continues to develop the design in more detail to include building sections, wall sections and construction detail. Engineers are engaged to begin the structural, civil, mechanical, plumbing and electrical design. Interior design concepts are begun with color and finish selections being made. Audio/Visual/Lighting consultants are also engaged at this time.

6. Construction Documents During this phase, all working drawings and specifications are completed and the pricing/build-out of the project is completed. Engineering and architectural plans are coordinated and finalized. The interior design plans are completed.

7. Bidding and Negotiation The bid process for the project is completed through one of several methods: through invited contractors only; to a specified contractor only; or in a public bid.

8. Construction Administration Mr. Adams visits the job site on a regular basis during this phase to monitor the quality and progress of the work and to report observed deviations from the contract drawings and specifications. He and the other project partners review and make recommendations on change orders, shop drawings, sample submittals and applications for payment. He acts as the client liaison and point of contact with the contractor and provides a complete final inspection at completion. At that time, a certificate of Substantial Completion is prepared and delivered to the client.

9. Post Occupancy The firm will continue to be available after occupancy commences, and will continue to act as an intermediary with the contractor during the warranty period. They are available to provide on-site inspections one month prior to the warranty expiration date.