Architecture
With RIO, your project will be a unique and timeless piece of art. Our team will provide their input and direction from the first phases of development till its completion.
Pre-design
The first step in architectural design is to meet the client and discuss their vision and goals. Regardless of the nature and industry of the project, we discuss key points, which include – scope, features, purpose, and functionality.
In this phase, we carry out:
Client consultation
Existing conditions survey and documentation
Photographs
Measurements
Compile existing drawings, if any
Prepare high-level base drawings
Statement of probable build/construction cost
Programming space and use
Code review
This phase ends with the owner’s decision to move forward with a project.
Schematic Design
During this step, we do a series of rough sketches/drawings that illustrate the basic concepts of the design. We also complete initial research on local compliance and regulations at this time.
At the end of this phase, we deliver
Floor plans of all levels with generic openings and plumbing fixtures
Exterior building elevations with representative openings and finishes
Building cross-section
Typical wall section
And we move to the next phase with the owner’s approval.
Design Development
Design development collects the results from the schematic design phase and takes them one step further. This phase involves finalizing the design and specifying items such as materials, window and door locations, and general structural details.
At the end of this phase, we deliver:
Floor plans with a proposed basis of design openings and plumbing fixtures
Overall dimensions
Structural grid dimensions
Interior wall dimensions
Exterior elevations with a proposed basis of design openings and finishes
Additional building sections
Wall sections in all typical conditions
Typical details
Additional details to establish a basis for designing products
Now, we have given shape to the project’s vision through drawings and written specifications.
Construction Documents
By now, we have a final design. We can begin preparing construction drawings/blueprints, notes, and technical specifications for construction and permit applications. Construction contractors will use these detailed drawings and specifications to prepare for their work.
In this phase, we deliver the following in full detail:
Fully annotated floor plans
All dimensions
Room, wall, door, and window identification
Section and detail indicators
General and detailed notes
Fully annotated exterior elevations
All building sections required for construction
Wall sections at all conditions
Fully annotated details
Structural plans
Plumbing plans and schedules
HVAC plans and schedules
Electrical power and lighting plans and schedules
And we move to the final phase.
The building permit phase
At this point, the architect must submit the permit set of drawings as part of a permit application. The city or county reviews the submittals for structural integrity and adherence to zoning laws and building codes.
Permitting can be one of the slowest parts of the construction process, but it protects architects, builders, and property owners from potentially dangerous construction errors.
Simple construction projects in permissive municipalities can get approval in a few days. However, in the case of large-scale projects or ones in historic districts, the permitting process can take months.
