Group 1 - Role of Architects in Architectural Projects.
Group 1 - Role of Architects in Architectural Projects.
Group 1 - Role of Architects in Architectural Projects.
PROJECTS
GROUP 1
GROUP MEMBERS
It involves:
1. Identifying Needs: Understanding what the client wants and needs from the project.
2. Gathering Information: Collecting data about the site, budget, and any relevant regulations or
constraints.
3. Setting Objectives: Defining the project’s purpose, scope, and desired outcomes.
4. Exploring Concepts: Generating preliminary ideas and visions for the design.
• The architect collaborates with the client to define the project’s objectives, scope, budget, and
requirements.
• The architect gathers information on site conditions, local regulations, and client needs, and
PROJECT DESIGN
Design is the realisation of an idea, or the resolution of requirements, through means of
communication such as drawings, plans, specifications and models.
This initial phase serves as the foundation for the entire project.
TASKS TO BE DONE:
● Client meetings: Extensive discussions with the client to understand their needs, budget,
and desired functionality of the space.
● Site analysis and existing structure study: Evaluating the physical characteristics of
the building site, including zoning regulations, environmental factors, and access points,
Research the cultural, environmental, and historical importance of the site, Document
commercial and industrial developments.
● Space Planning: Defining the types and sizes of spaces needed within the building,
considering the client’s program.
OUTLINE PROPOSAL
To determine the general approach to layout, design and construction in order to obtain
authoritative approval of the client on the outline proposals and accompanying report.
TASKS TO BE DONE:
SCHEME DESIGN
The purpose of the scheme design process is to complete the brief and decide on particular
proposals such as
1. Planning arrangement
2. Appearance,
3. Construction methods,
4. Cost.
SCHEME DESIGN
This stage involves developing floor plans, site plans and building elevations for this design phase.
This will give you a complete description of the building systems (structural, mechanical, HVAC,
plumbing and electrical), interior and exterior finishes and the building site.
You should stay in this design phase until you have the basic form and function approved by the
client.
TASKS TO BE DONE:
Detailed design should provide sufficient information for applications for statutory approvals (such
as building regulations approval) to be made.
Architects are responsible for creating detailed drawings and testing the project feasibility. BIM and
CAD software speed up the process significantly. During this stage, multiple revisions and re-
drawings take place to incorporate changes based on client needs, budget and regulations.
TASKS TO BE DONE:
● Overall layout.
● Road layouts and landscape.
● Operational flows and departmental operational policies.
● Horizontal and vertical circulation routes, including accessibility requirements.
● Schedules of accommodation, including occupancy numbers for each space.
● Identification of standard and non-standard room layouts.
● Room data sheets, if appropriate.
● Building dimensions and gridlines.
● Architectural plans sections and elevations of buildings, parts of buildings and drawings.
● Outline specification including schedules of components, defining the performance and/or
material standards required (including colours).
● Elements of design that require specialist input or early choice of manufacturer. Designers
should investigate suppliers certificates, warranties and compliance with standards.
DETAIL DESIGN
i. Client/Owner – owner of the proposed project, requires the Construction work, provides
site/land for construction and will enter into contract with successful tenderer/bidder upon being
successful.
iii. The tenders are evaluated, and a tender evaluation report is produced recommending the
preferred tender bid;
iv. The employer reviews the tender evaluation report and awards the contract;
v. The contract is negotiated and eventually signed by both the contractor and the employer;
vi. The contractor is responsible for the provision of insurance and the surety/ guarantee as
stipulated in the contract;
viii. The contractor establishes his or her camp and site office and orders the materials
required to start construction;
ix. The contractor sets out the work and starts construction.
TYPES OF TENDER PROCUREMENT
Request for Quotations: Architect may recommend using this method for small projects
where less formal and direct procurement can suffice.
Direct Procurement: Architect ensures that any contractor directly procured aligns with the
project’s technical specifications and delivers on the design objectives.
TYPES OF PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES
Open Procedure: Architect prepares all design-related documents for open competitive
bidding and ensures that bidders receive all necessary technical information.
Traditional Procurement: Architect designs the project, oversees the tendering process, and
manages the construction on behalf of the client.
Design and Build Procurement: Architect may provide initial design input, then hand over
control to a contractor who takes on both design finalization and construction.
Public-Private Partnership (PPP): Architect helps ensure the project design meets public
sector needs while working with private contractors to realize the project.
Turnkey Projects: Architect may oversee the design phase and ensure that the contractor
delivers the completed project according to design specifications without significant input during
construction.
TENDERING, TENDER EVALUATION, RECOMMENDATION & AWARD
Preparation of Tender Documents: Architect prepares or provides input on technical drawings,
specifications, and other documents required for the tender process.
Tender Evaluation: Architect participates in evaluating tender submissions, ensuring they meet
the technical and design requirements.
Recommendation for Award: Architect advises on the most qualified contractor based on their
technical capacity, experience, and alignment with project goals.
Contract Award: Architect may be involved in formalizing the contract award process by
ensuring the selected contractor understands the design and project deliverables.
SITE HANDOVER
Site handover to the contractor typically refers to the initial phase of a construction
project where the client formally transfers the site to the contractor to begin construction.
This process ensures that the contractor has full access to the site and all necessary
permissions to start the work.
2. Documentation Review:
Ensure all necessary documents are prepared and reviewed, including site plans, permits,
and surveys.
Verify that all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
6. Handover Meeting:
Conduct a formal meeting between the client and the contractor to discuss
the project timeline, milestones, and specific requirements.
Address any questions or concerns from either party.
7. Handover Acceptance:
Sign a formal handover acceptance document to acknowledge the transfer of
the site.
Ensure both parties agree on the condition of the site and any outstanding
issues.
Essential Documents for Site Handover to the Contractor:
1. Site Plans and Drawings: Detailed architectural and engineering plans
that outline the design and specifications of the project.
2. Permits and Approvals: All necessary permits and approvals from local
authorities to commence construction.
3. Survey Reports: Existing site surveys that provide information on the
site’s current condition and any potential issues.
4. Health and Safety Protocols: Documentation of health and safety
procedures to ensure compliance with regulations.
5. Utilities Information: Details on the availability and location of
essential utilities like water, electricity, and sanitation.
6. Contractual Documents: Copies of the construction contract, including
any amendments or addendums.
7. Insurance Certificates: Proof of insurance coverage for the
construction site and activities.
8. Environmental Reports: Any environmental assessments or impact
reports relevant to the site.
9. Access and Security Information: Details on site access points, security
measures, and any restrictions.
2. Documentation Preparation:
Assist in compiling and organizing all necessary documents for the handover.
Review and verify the accuracy of all documentation.
3. Site Meetings:
Participate in site meetings to discuss the project timeline and address any potential
issues.
Provide guidance on design-related matters and ensure adherence to the project plan.
4. Quality Assurance:
Set up quality assurance processes to ensure that the construction adheres to the design
specifications and standards.
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION
Contract administration involves overseeing and managing the construction process to ensure
that the project is completed in accordance with the contract documents, design specifications,
schedule, and budget. The architect plays a central role in this phase, acting as the liaison
between the client and the contractor. The ultimate goal of contract administration is to ensure
that the project is delivered to the client’s satisfaction, with minimal delays, disputes, or
deviations from the agreed terms.
● Design Conformance: The architect checks that the construction conforms to the design
intent and contractual requirements.
● Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that the work complies with building codes, safety
regulations, and any other legal requirements.
3. Change Management
● Change Orders: When unforeseen conditions or design changes arise, the architect
manages and approves any changes to the scope of work through formal Change Orders.
These changes may affect the project's cost and schedule, requiring client approval.
● Architect’s Instructions (AI): If any clarifications or adjustments to the design are
needed, the architect issues AI to guide the contractor on modifications without altering the
contract terms.
4. Payment Certification
● Progress Payments: The architect reviews and certifies the contractor’s payment
requests based on the actual work completed. This involves verifying that the work is of
acceptable quality and that the contractor’s claims match the agreed project milestones.
● Final Payment and Retention: The architect approves the final payment once all work is
completed and any remaining issues or defects have been addressed.
5. Dispute Resolution
● Mediation: In cases where disputes arise between the contractor and the client regarding
the scope of work, delays, or payment issues, the architect may act as a mediator to find a
fair solution.
● Claim Evaluation: The architect reviews and evaluates any claims from the contractor for
additional time, compensation, or other modifications to the project terms.
6. Project Closeout
● Practical Completion: The architect inspects the completed project and issues a
Practical Completion Certificate, indicating that the project is substantially complete
and ready for occupancy, subject to minor corrections.
● Defects Liability Period: After the project is handed over, the architect manages the
Defects Liability Period, during which any issues identified are rectified by the
contractor.
● Final Completion and Handover: Once all defects are resolved, the architect issues the
Final Certificate to mark the formal end of the contract, releasing the contractor from
further obligations.
Stakeholders in Contract Administration
Client/Owner
● Role: The client is the entity funding and commissioning the project. They rely on the
architect to manage the contract and ensure that the project meets their goals, budget, and
quality expectations.
● Responsibilities:
○ Approving design changes, change orders, and payments.
○ Making key decisions about the project’s direction during construction.
○ Providing timely feedback on any significant issues.
○ Final approval of the completed project.
Architect/Contract Administrator
● Role: The architect is typically the primary contract administrator, acting as the client’s
representative to oversee construction, ensure compliance with the contract, and manage
the contractor’s performance.
● Responsibilities:
○ Monitoring construction progress and quality.
○ Certifying payments and managing change orders.
○ Resolving disputes between the client and contractor.
○ Ensuring that the project adheres to the design and contract terms.
○ Managing the project closeout process.
Contractor
● Role: The contractor is responsible for the execution of the construction work as outlined in
the contract documents, drawings, and specifications provided by the architect. They
manage site operations, labor, and subcontractors.
● Responsibilities:
○ Completing the construction work in accordance with the contract.
○ Submitting payment requests based on the work completed.
○ Coordinating with subcontractors and suppliers to meet project requirements.
○ Responding to architect's instructions and resolving issues that arise on-site.
Subcontractors
● Role: Subcontractors perform specific portions of the construction work, such as plumbing,
electrical, or carpentry, under the direction of the contractor.
● Responsibilities:
○ Completing specialized tasks as per the design specifications and timeline.
○ Coordinating with the main contractor to ensure work integrates with other
components of the project.
Consultants (e.g., Engineers, Quantity Surveyors)
● Role: The quantity surveyor handles financial aspects of the project, including cost
estimation, budget control, and managing changes that affect the project’s cost.
● Responsibilities:
○ Reviewing the contractor’s payment claims.
○ Certifying payments based on actual progress.
○ Advising on cost implications of change orders.
Project Manager (if applicable)
● Role: The project manager coordinates all aspects of the project, ensuring that timelines
are met, communication is smooth, and the project stays on budget. They work closely with
the architect and contractor.
● Responsibilities:
○ Overseeing the project’s schedule and managing risks.
○ Ensuring communication among stakeholders is effective.
○ Monitoring the overall project delivery to ensure it aligns with the client’s objectives.
Suppliers
● Role: Suppliers provide the materials and equipment needed for construction.
● Responsibilities:
○ Delivering materials in line with the project specifications and timeline.
○ Ensuring that materials meet the required quality standards.
○ Coordinating with the contractor to address any issues related to supplies.
Regulatory Bodies and Inspectors
This phase marks the transition from construction to the operational phase of the project. It's a
formal procedure where the contractor hands over the completed or partially completed works
to the client. The process ensures that the project has been built to the agreed design,
specifications, and contract terms.
The handing over can be either partial, for phased projects, or complete if all work is done.
Partial handing over: This occurs when part of the project (e.g., a specific floor or section) is
completed and ready for use while other parts are still under construction. It's common in
large or phased projects where certain areas need to be operational before the entire project
is finished.
Complete handing over: This happens when all construction work has been completed,
including finishing works, services (plumbing, electrical), and landscaping. The contractor
submits the project to the client in its entirety.
Importance
● The handover phase provides the owner with resources like certificates, warranties, and
training to operate and maintain the property.
● For contractors, project handover leaves a lasting impression and can influence future
business.
● Certificate of Practical Completion (CPC): Issued by the architect, signifying the project
is sufficiently complete for occupation or use. It marks the official end of the construction
phase and the start of the defect liability period.
● As-built drawings: Updated drawings reflecting any changes made during construction.
● Operation and Maintenance manuals (O&M): Documentation for building systems
(electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.).
● Warranties and guarantees: For materials, equipment, and systems.
Role of the Architect during project handing over
● Inspections and quality control- verify that the work is complete and conforms to the
design, specifications, and other standards
● Ensuring compliance with regulations- NEMA, OSHA, local municipal building codes,
and zoning regulations.
● Issuing the Certificate of Practical Completion (CPC)- shows the architect is satisfied
with the quality and completeness of the project - it also initiates the defect liability period
(usually 6-12 months)
● Finalizing payments-The architect, in consultation with the quantity surveyor, may
authorize the release of retention money or final payments to the contractor once the
project is deemed satisfactorily completed. This step comes after the issuance of the CPC or
once all defects have been rectified.
● Facilitating handover documentation- as-built drawings, operation and maintenance
manuals, warranties, and guarantees.
OCCUPATION & DEFECT LIABILITY PERIOD
OCCUPATION
Occupation certificate - Is a legal document usually issued by the local government agency or
the housing/building department declaring a building's compliance with relevant building codes and
other laws, and indicating it to be in a condition suitable for human habitation.
• Safeguards the building from being demolished as it will be deemed to have complied with
all legal requirements during construction.
• Occupation certificate forms a legal basis for connection of basic amenities that is
Electricity, water and Sewer lines as applicable, in absence of the same such amenities if
connected in prior can be disconnected anytime.
• Guarantees the occupants that the building is safe, as it is deemed to have been inspected
during and after construction, and declared safe and ready for occupation.
• The occupancy certificate is the final approval from the local (County) government that the
house is built legally and is safe to be occupied.
DEFECTS LIABILITY PERIOD
The period for which the contractor is required to “guarantee” the completed works and to rectify
any defects that may be discovered or appear.
The defect liability period starts when the employer is satisfied that the works are complete and
takes delivery. The defects liability period varies, depending on the nature of the work, and can
range from 3 to 12 months.
Patent defect - Means a defect which a reasonable inspection by the Architect would disclose.
Latent defect - Means a defect which a reasonable inspection by the Architect would not disclose.
DEFECTS LIABILITY PERIOD
i. The contractor is responsible for making good items which show defects during the
defects liability period;
ii. Near the end of the defect liability period, the contractor formally requests the
Architect (with copies to Client & QS) to inspect the project and identify any defective
items which the contractor is responsible for making good in terms of the contract;
iii. The money held in retention by the employer will only be paid when the contractor
has properly completed the list of defects and after issuance of certificate of making
good defects by the Architect;
iv. Once the Architect has issued a copy of the final completion certificate, then final
Valuation and payment certificate (release of 2nd moiety) are prepared based on agreed
final account, the client is required to pay the retention money due to the contractor.
MAINTENANCE PRACTICES & ALTERATIONS
1. Post-Construction Evaluation
• Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to assess the condition of the building and identify any
issues.
2. Maintenance Planning
• Maintenance Guidelines: Provide guidelines for routine maintenance to ensure the building
operates efficiently.
4. Historical Preservation
• As-Built Drawing: Maintain updated as-built drawings and specifications for reference
during maintenance or renovations.
• Warranty Management: Track warranties for materials and systems to facilitate repairs
or replacements.
DECOMMISSIONING
Decommissioning refers to the process of removing a building or structure from active use, often
leading to demolition, repurposing, or complete shutdown.
1. Initial Assessment: The architect evaluates the building's current condition, including
structural integrity, materials, and potential environmental hazards (like asbestos or lead).
2. Regulatory Compliance: The architect ensures that the decommissioning process follows
local laws, safety regulations, and environmental standards.
3. Design for Repurposing: If the structure is to be repurposed, the architect may create plans
for adaptive reuse, considering how the building can be converted for a new function.
4. Site Management: The architect works with contractors to plan the deconstruction, ensuring
minimal impact on surrounding areas and preserving any elements that may be reused or
recycled.
5. Documentation: The architect records the process, documenting changes and maintaining
historical records, especially for buildings with cultural significance.
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