Architects meet with clients to discuss their needs and desires. They visit proposed building sites, analyze their requirements, and review land-use bylaws as well as other codes and regulations. They work with construction companies on costs, construction schedules and site supervision. Architects also develop concept sketches of proposed designs for presentation to clients. This typically results in presentation drawings that include site plans, perspective drawings, models and videos.
With a client’s approval of the design and budget, architects proceed through design development and on to the construction document stage. These documents, usually created on a computer, include:
- Detailed construction drawings
- Specifications (written instructions for contractors)
- Contract and construction documents
When architects plan layouts, they must keep in mind how the building’s interior, structural, electrical and mechanical systems relate to each other in terms of placement and space. They take into account codes and regulations that influence the layout. They make recommendations on the sustainability and energy efficiency of the site and building design, including its operation and maintenance.
Architects prepare estimates of construction costs with information they get from building contractors. They may also consult with:
- Soil engineers and surveyors
- Structural, electrical and mechanical engineers
- Urban planners
- Landscape architects
- Interior designers and kitchen consultants
- Cost estimators
- Acoustical engineers
- Local planning, zoning and building code officials
- Community organizations
- Contractors and construction companies
- Materials and equipment manufacturers and suppliers
Architects frequently meet with clients to:
- Evaluate designs and discuss concerns
- Give advice about building sites, tenders and the selection of contractors
- Report on progress and costs
- Review plans
- Choose materials, finishes and colours
Architects also may prepare land-use studies and carry out long-range land development plans.
Architectural firms put in a considerable amount of time marketing their services to potential clients so they have a steady and growing workload. This includes networking and developing a wide range of promotional material.
Some architects specialize in areas such as:
- Programming
- Sustainable design
- Building and construction technology
- Specifications writing and cost estimating
- Project management
- Arbitration
Individual architects or architectural firms may choose to specialize in, or be associated with, the design of particular types of buildings. These could include:
- Residential buildings, such as single- and multi-family homes or high-rise apartments
- Commercial buildings, such as office buildings and shopping centres
- Institutions such as churches, schools or hospitals
- Historic or heritage rehabilitation (restoration of older buildings)
- Urban design