It's the owners obligation to provide the “Project Program” and “Deliver the Site” To the Architect.

Project Program (or Architectural Program) is a detailed outline of the client’s needs, goals, and requirements for the project. This document forms the foundation for design decisions.

“Delivering the Site” means providing the architect with accurate site surveys, topo maps, geotechnical reports, and utility information to the Architect for design development.

Site Analysis is a critical step in the architectural design process. It involves the detailed study of physical, environmental, cultural, and legal conditions of a given location to inform and guide architectural decision-making. A thorough site analysis ensures that the design is responsive to its context, sustainable, and meets regulatory requirements.

Architectural bubble diagrams are loose, conceptual drawings used in the early stages of design to visually explore and organize spaces based on function, relationship, and flow -before any formal plans are drawn

Schematic design (SD) is the first formal phase of architectural design, where the architect translates the clients program and site information into preliminary design ideas. It bridges the gap between conceptual thinking and detailed planning, providing a visual and spatial outline of the project.

Design development (DD) is the architectural phase that follows schematic design. It's where the approved concepts are refined into more detailed and coordinated drawings, laying the groundwork for construction documents.

Construction documents (CDs) are the detailed drawings and written specifications and architect, and their consultants produced to guide the permitting, bidding, and Construction of a project: This phase translates the refined design from design development into precise instructions for building.

Bidding and negotiation is the phase of architectural services where the Construction costs are finalized, and a contractor is selected to build the project. It occurs after construction documents are complete and before construction begins.

DESIGN BID BUILD

The permitting phase of architectural services involves preparing, submitting, and coordinating all required documentation to obtain official approval from local authorities to begin construction.

Construction Administration (CA) is the architectural phase that begins after the building permit is issued and construction starts. During this phase, the architect acts as the owner’s representative, overseeing construction progress, answering questions, and ensuring the building is being constructed in accordance with the design intent and contract documents.

For simple residential builds, the client may choose whether to retain the architect for the construction administration phase. In many cases, especially when working with a trusted and reputable local contractor, the owner may opt to manage this phase independently.

While architect-led construction administration offers professional oversight, prompt response to field questions, and assurance that the project aligns with the design intent, some owners are comfortable relying solely on the contractor’s experience and reputation within the community.