From Brief to Building
A structured workflow that moves from client requirements through construction completion, with clear deliverables and decision points at each stage.
Process Overview
Client Briefing
We begin every project with comprehensive understanding of your requirements, constraints, and aspirations.
Activities
- Initial consultation meeting
- Site visit and documentation
- Program requirements discussion
- Budget and timeline alignment
- Preliminary scope definition
Deliverables
- Project brief document
- Site photographs and measurements
- Regulatory summary
- Preliminary schedule
Your Role: Share your requirements, constraints, and aspirations. The more we understand your needs, the better we can serve them.
Site Analysis
Thorough understanding of site conditions, constraints, and opportunities that will inform design decisions.
Activities
- Detailed site survey
- Topographical documentation
- Solar and wind analysis
- Neighboring context study
- Utility and access assessment
Deliverables
- Site analysis report
- Constraint diagrams
- Opportunity mapping
- Regulatory compliance summary
Your Role: Provide access to site and any existing documentation (previous surveys, title documents, utility records).
Concept Development
Exploration of design options responding to site conditions, program requirements, and client aspirations.
Activities
- Massing studies
- Plan organization options
- Conceptual sketches
- Material palette exploration
- Design presentations
Deliverables
- Concept presentation
- Schematic floor plans
- Preliminary elevations
- 3D study models
Your Role: Review concepts, provide feedback. This is when major design decisions are made.
Design Development
Refinement of approved concept into detailed design with all major elements defined.
Activities
- Detailed floor plans
- Elevation development
- Section drawings
- Material selection
- Structural coordination
Deliverables
- Design development drawings
- Material specifications
- Preliminary cost estimate
- MEP coordination
Your Role: Approve materials, finishes, and design details. This phase locks major design decisions.
Construction Documentation
Complete drawings and specifications that contractors will use to build your project.
Activities
- Working drawings
- Detail development
- Specification writing
- Coordination with consultants
- Approval submissions
Deliverables
- Complete construction drawings
- Technical specifications
- Door/window schedules
- Approval documents
Your Role: Review and approve final documents. Obtain necessary financing or approvals.
Construction Administration
Oversight during construction to ensure design intent is realized and quality standards maintained.
Activities
- Contractor coordination
- Site observations
- RFI responses
- Submittal review
- Change order evaluation
Deliverables
- Site visit reports
- Clarification drawings
- Progress documentation
- Substantial completion certificate
Your Role: Engage with construction progress. Final decisions on any changes or substitutions.
Ready to start your project?
Let's discuss how ARKA can bring your vision to life.