Breakdown of Architectural Process and Fee Structure (Simplified)

What are the components of an architects’ fee and process?

Prospecting owners typically ask for a breakdown of the architect’s fees that they’re paying for. The answer would normally come in the form of a proposal outlining in detail the inclusions and exclusions of the scope of services of an architect.

The proposal is made by a professional who is very much aware of what is at stake. Coming from experience and wary of any slip-ups, we meticulously write up a solid proposal wherein risks are allocated and liabilities are clearly defined. In the end, we have this proposal that’s sleek and airtight, words so precise and devoid of any potential for miscommunication.

But, the architect’s proposals become intimidating and full of industry-specific vocabulary. How then can one understand and appreciate the architect’s scope of services and fee structure, without the proposal?

Read the images and the captions for a simplified version.

In the process of trying to explain such a complex service, I kept getting stuck and dependent on jargon. So I simplified further by trying to build a box, what would the architectural process look and sound like if I were trying to make a simple Box?

Here, the box is interchangeable with a house or any building.

Here's an overview of the whole process and the approximate fee. It goes Concept - Schematic Design - Design Development - Contract Documents - Construction - End.

Some projects have more or fewer steps and steps may not be linear, here the process is simplified for understanding.

I'm going to get crucified for over-simplifying, but I'm placing higher importance on understanding first before going deeper.

And, well, it's still better to consult an architect like it's better to consult a lawyer or doctor.

This is the most exciting part. The possibilities are endless and creativity is at its peak.

With the client, we explore options and arrangements that seek to fulfill their current and future needs.

We define the parameters and seek to solve those parameters as creatively and practically as possible.

The result would be a clear plan, model, and image that reflect what we strive to create.

This is also the most ideal picture of what we want to create.

Then, it all changed when the consultants attacked. (Kidding)

Once we've defined the general arrangement of the building, we get help from our engineers, who are always happy to help.

We integrate the utilities and structures into our design and make changes as we go along. Changes could be like a higher floor to floor level or moving an area to make space for some pipes going up.

It's a high-level dance between what is defined by the schematic plan and the practicality of integrating the utilities and structure.

We try to keep as much of the original schematic design intent as possible.

So, we've gotten inputs from clients and our friendly engineers. What else do we need to do?

This step is all about details,i.e.

gutter details, to make sure it doesn't leak

toilet details, so the contractor has the right dimensions

ceiling details, so gypsum boards get bought instead of ficem boards.

Basically, just stuff that we're supposed to detail so the building doesn't go boom, or you don't accidentally have a pool party in your living room.

1000 hours later....

Can you feel it? Your dream's about to become a reality!

We've designed your dream home, the engineers are happy with their plans, the details are perfect, all that's left is to make it.

Well, since we've planned it out carefully, we're better equipped to handle the construction. All that's left is to follow the plans and adjust to the site and market conditions as necessary.

Could you imagine if we didn't have plans and just started constructing? How painful would that be huh?

And we're done! Here's a summary with a bit more detail. In practice, architects can vary their scope and timeline from one package to another, i.e. some architects submit permit plans at the Contract documents phase.

But, this should give you an overview of a simplified architectural service without too much complexity.

Plans by themselves, don't make a building, but planning surely helps!