Anyone who is venturing out into the world of home remodeling or new construction for the first time may not be completely aware of the term ‘architectural design’. Simply put, it is the systematic development or improvement of structural components and elements to maximize the appeal, personality, and functionality of a building. Since architecture itself is a combination of both art and science, professionals who are responsible for amplifying the architectural style or design implement this combined approach to deliver the best results to the homeowners. However, what cannot be denied is the importance of procuring and using high standard and sustainable materials to enliven or realize the structural developments.
Interestingly, the concept can be implemented on both home building and home remodeling projects, but there is a fine line of difference that one must bear in mind. New construction requires you to select and stick on a particular architectural style, while remodeling means achieving synergy between the existing architectural style and the envisioned architecture design. It is a challenge to preserve the remnants of the past structure while introducing new and trending elements into a building.
This concept is, however, not just restricted to just home plans, for it holds considerable significance for creating or improving commercial properties as well. When you hire an expert contractor, he/she applies this concept to provide you with a highly satisfying construction or remodeling result. To discover several other benefits of hiring a commercial contractor, read ‘Why Should You Hire Commercial Remodeling Contractors’ .
Do you want to know the essential elements of architectural designing? These elements form the bedrock of any remodeling or construction project. And hence, you need to know a little about them before embarking on home building journey. Let us read to unravel new and interesting facts.
Selection of Methods – To begin with, you must know that you have to choose one from two construction project delivery methods – Design-to-bid and Design-build. On one hand, in design-to-bid, you have to hire architects to prepare design and drawings and once they are completed, you can go for competitive bidding to select a suitable general contractor. On the other hand, in the design-build phase, you can hire a general contractor who remains responsible for both designing and building the project. The design-to-build project delivery method is not entirely safe because the homeowner remains majorly responsible for the accuracy of the developed designs. Moreover, it can create bad blood between the contractor and the architect.
If you want to avoid these troubles and confusion, we suggest you go for a design-build delivery method. In this process, chances of friction are minimized because the GC handles both designing and construction. For all kinds of omissions and commissions in the project, you can go to your GC for seeking clarification about architecture in Houston. Further, with this process, your project can be fast-tracked and value-engineered effectively. Do you want to explore other aspects and benefits of this project delivery method? Click here to learn more An Insight into The Process of Design Build Approach.
Pre-Design Phase – Once you are done selecting a project delivery method, you have to focus on the pre-design phase. Needs & wish lists contain the changes, plans, and designs that you would like to see in your remodeled or newly-constructed house. Remember, preparing this list will serve no purpose unless you share it with your design team. After all, the professionals need to understand your expectations and vision for the final result. From engineers and architects to specialty contractors and interior designers, the design team comprises the best professionals from each field and is led by the GC. Since the design team is focussed on protecting your interests and delivering the best result, you must pay attention to their suggestions, and most importantly, have faith in their expertise.
Remember, the prime job responsibility of any GC would be to conduct feasibility studies needs. That is so because the local authority usually asks for feasibility studies before clearing permits for your project. Also, analyzing budgetary investment forms an important part of financial feasibility study. Based on your budget, the team can aid in your decision making process and suggest whether you should go for remodeling, new construction, or simply buy a home.
When these feasibility studies are done, the experts delve into site analysis and pave the way for preparing the groundwork for creating home design in Houston. Starting from researching deed restrictions to obtaining the permit, the GC has the expertise to handle it all without causing you any stress. All you have to do is, be considerate of your professional’s limitations and suggestions. To know more about this, you can read ‘Top Things Custom Home Builders Wish You Knew’ .
Design Phase – We can break down the design phase into three segments - Concept design phase, Design development phase, and Construction drawing phase. It goes without saying that each phase makes some unique offerings. While the concept design phase involves developing rough floor plans, roof forms, and exterior building profiles based on needs and wish lists, design development phase gives definite geometric shapes to designs of wall sections, window & doors sections.
Coming to the construction design phase, it requires designers to accept, work on, and add details to the designs developed during the preceding phase. i.e., design development phase. Next, the plans will be forwarded for the engineering design phase wherein structural, plumbing, mechanical, or electrical changes are made or incorporated into the remodeling or home building project.
Once the structural changes are dealt with, it is time for the interior designers to exhibit their skills and make major changes in the interiors of your home. From selecting color scheme to choosing the right set of furniture, these professionals take care of everything. The best part about the design phase is you get to see and review only 3-D construction drawings and plans. That means you get a concrete idea of what you are going to achieve from 12 to 24 months from now on. As a consequence, you can make sure that the final result matches your visualization and is devoid of any error whatsoever. Do you want to know how home builders give shape to luxury house plans in Houston? For a detailed discussion, read ‘How Do Luxury Home Builders Bring Your Dream House to Life?’ .
Pre-Construction Phase – Along with developing construction drawings, the project team is also responsible for preparing submittal documents for pulling the permit. These documents are of huge significance because they contain specifications of materials, selection of products & colors, and define a clear scope of work. Furthermore, these pre-construction documents are going to dictate the contracting type, finalization of subcontractor documents, and developing an execution plan. Apart from representing the needs and preferences of the homeowners, specification development plans reflect the workmanship of the architect and the entire design team. Of course, these designs are nothing less than treasure trove for your home project.
Added to everything discussed above, we cannot help but stress the importance of developing a construction schedule and schedule of values. While the first one keeps your construction work on the right track and prevents any delay, the second one is developed to keep a tab on the cost magnitude and maintain financial transparency. All these development plans and project schedules are the lifelines of your new construction or remodeling because they can facilitate cooperation and coordination between you and the hired professional. There is no denying that these phases are critical and need to be taken care of strategically, but you can actually save a lot provided you hire the right professional. To know more about the economic aspect, read ‘How to Save Money by Hiring Remodeling Contractors’ .
Conclusion – No matter how challenging your remodeling or new construction work is, engaging an experienced and reputable can keep you covered with his brilliance and expertise. Located in Houston, Marwood Construction is a leading general contractor that provides the best quality construction and renovation services to its clients by making the best use of architectural design concept. To ensure a good value of money, you can contact the team at the earliest.