Design Process

Designpad is a full-service architecture firm with a sustainable bent. From concept to concrete, we work with clients to actualize dreams. This isn’t just about drawings - we work with clients to get timely permit approvals, neighborhood consensus, the right contractor and the most out of their construction.

Let’s get real

Schematic Design

During the first phase the goal is to understand the client’s desired scope of work or wish list, and working together, generate some initial design ideas. These are presented in drawings of the floor plan and often in 3D computer renderings to help convey the design intent. We perform in-depth research of jurisdictional planning and building codes to ensure the feasibility of the project. Through several rounds of design presentations, we start to move in the desired direction.

Thoroughly Plan

Design Development

In this phase, we work to further develop the design and start to get into the finer details like finishes. The goal here is to get a clear understanding of the look, feel and anticipated experience of the proposed spaces - keeping in mind the importance of natural light, flow and connection to the outside. This is also when we begin the process of fulfilling requirements for submitting the entitlement permits.

Detailed Drawings

Construction Documents

A culmination of the design where drawings and specifications set forth in detail the requirements for the construction of the project. The drawing set includes all of the plans, elevations, sections and details required for the construction of the project. The full set of documents required for permit review and approval are submitted to the appropriate government agencies. DesignPad serves as the client’s agent and shepherds the project through the process. 

Helping you make choices

Contractor Bidding

DesignPad assists the client with contractor interviews and document coordination for bidding the project.

Let’s do this

Construction

Perhaps one of the most important phases of the project - during construction, the architect serves as the representative of the client, present for the duration of construction. We coordinate and communicate with the contractor to ensure that the project is being built per the contract documents and endeavor to ensure that any issues that arise during construction are resolved in a timely manner.

Let’s Celebrate

Close-Out

Time to celebrate! Upon completion, DesignPad inspects the project to check that there are no open or unresolved items, identify any remaining issues, and confirm that the project was built per the design and satisfaction of the client.