The Schematic Design Phase is similar to what a lot of residential designers call “conceptual design,” where the basic design concept is developed. However, instead of just creating a single plan that the client is expected to love, enclave | architecture develops multiple conceptual building/site layouts for each project, then creates preliminary exterior building massing for the layout that best fits the client’s needs, and finally refines the overall concept into a preliminary design that can be further developed in the next phase. We also assist the client in selecting a general contractor for the project and obtaining preliminary construction pricing in this phase.

The Design Development Phase is exactly what it sounds like: developing the concept that was created during the Schematic Design phase. This includes refining the client’s selected site and building layouts, honing the exterior design, selecting base materials that have an impact on construction methods, and developing initial construction details. Throughout this phase, enclave | architecture works with the owner on refining the design and the selected contractor to help ensure that the design stays within the client’s desired budget and construction details are in line with construction methods that the contractor is comfortable using.

The Construction Documents Phase is the point of the project where the detailed plan set is developed. By this time, the site and building layouts are finalized, so the design team can focus on developing the notes and details needed to obtain jurisdictional approvals and construct the project with minimal questions and issues. Additionally, enclave | architecture coordinates with the structural engineer and other applicable consultants to ensure all documents are aligned, confirms that product specifications are clear and accurate, and stays in contact with the contractor in an effort to maintain the budget and construction methods specified.

The Permitting and Approvals Phase is often the most confusing part of the project for clients, designers, and contractors alike. Due to our experience in the commercial design world, enclave | architecture is able to navigate these processes with ease. The detail developed during the CD phase enables reviewers to evaluate the documents with minimal questions, and the detail level plus the contractor’s familiarity with the project allows the contractor to develop a more accurate final construction estimate. And when questions or issues do come up, enclave | architecture is able to respond in a quick and competent manner.

The Construction Administration Phase is one of the most neglected phases in the residential design world, and yet is one of the most critical steps to ensuring that the constructed project meets the goals and objectives communicated by the client. enclave | architecture recognizes the importance of this step; rather than handing off the plans and leaving the owner to coordinating with the contractor to figure things out, we collaborate with the contractor throughout construction to ensure that things progress in accordance with the construction documents and any questions that come up are dealt with promptly.

In addition to the above five project phases, which are provided standard for every enclave | architecture new build project, owners can also request our assistance with many other items as needed. Some examples include:

basic assistance with selection of interior fixtures and finishes

assistance with selection of an interior designer for projects needing more detailed interior finish selections and specifications

land use coordination with jurisdictions

pre-design and/or pre-construction meetings with jurisdictions