Concept design comprises two phases: pre-design – the research and information-gathering phase – and the design phase. During the design phase, you will arrange, attend and record meetings with the client, authorities, consultants and other relevant parties; undertake a preliminary assessment of authority regulations and requirements; prepare sketches, diagrams and other information to adequately explain the concept; prepare design briefs for other consultants; undertake preliminary selection of materials and finishes; and coordinate preliminary cost forecasts appropriate to the size of the project for the client’s consideration.
Concept design implies an idea, or range of ideas, an approach, a guiding concept and a design intent. Concept design deals with the formative ideas: form, scale and mass and the appearance of a building within its surroundings and context, resolving and encapsulating the principles of the scheme. In the initial design stage the general scope and conceptual ideas of the project are explored including scale and relationships between building components. At the end of the schematic design phase preliminary sketches are prepared, providing the opportunity to verify that the desired functional relationships between various activities are in line with your client’s expectations.
Disclaimer
This content is provided by the Australian Institute of Architects for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. It is not legal, financial, insurance, or other advice and you should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result. The Institute endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time. Using this website and content is subject to the Acumen User Licence.