From the first sketch to a finished building.
The same architect for the whole journey: from the first sketch to the permit drawings and, where needed, all the way to supervising the site.
Needs assessment, concept and sketches
Every project begins with a conversation and a visit to the site. The sketches grow out of the characteristics of the site, the surrounding buildings, regulations and the needs and wishes of the client. These sketches are then further developed into permit drawings.
- Getting to know the site and the client's wishes, and establishing the starting points — permitted building volume and anything else that shapes the design
- Sketch proposals and an indicative cost framework
Building permit
- Permit drawings — floor plans, elevations and the site plan
- Permit application appendices, including energy, noise and moisture management reports
- Negotiations with the authorities: building control and, where relevant, heritage or fire authorities
Working drawings and construction administration
The principal designer's duties under the Finnish Land Use and Building Act: taking responsibility for the design as a whole and coordinating the specialist disciplines — structural, HVAC and electrical — throughout the project.
- Working drawings
- Coordination of the different designs
- Site meetings and discussions with the other designers
- Managing changes during construction and keeping the drawings up to date
Site supervision
I often take on the responsible site manager's duties during construction as well. For the client, that means one accountable person for the entire project.
- The statutory duties of the responsible site manager
- Inspections and liaison with the authorities
- Quality control on site