Crafting Distinctive Dwellings: Unraveling the Design Conceptualization Journey for a Unique Home | The Architectural Design Process

The previous blog showcased the 3D modeling procedure, today we will explore the design conceptualization procedure for creating a distinctive house design by employing the same design illustration.

This is to document the entire process to show more related articles in pursuit of our design conceptualization techniques. This process or approach may or may not be similar to different architects' approaches to creating a unique house design. There are a lot of idea generation in this process and one of the methods in generating ideas I'm about to share with you.

This is the introduction part of the of the series Architectural Design Process in the Design Conceptualization of a House using Sketchup.

As part of the Process, the first one is how to Craft Distinctive Dwellings. We will unravel the methods and manage the process as we journey together. 

Idea Generation in The Design Conceptualization Process

Design Brief 

There are a lot of ideas that may come in the first place whenever you encounter design challenges to come up with a unique house design idea. 

The first base to start your idea generation is the Design Brief given by the client. Whenever a client comes to you, He/she may already have ideas in his/her mind. This may be coming from a house they have visited or from a magazine they have seen. Any idea that comes out of the client is the starting point. The Design brief is a document for a design project done by the designer to the client. This outlines the whole scope of the project including all deliverables. This will be the reference for all design projects to evaluate the effectiveness of the design solution.

 The Architect, After the initial meeting with the client, will incorporate all the different ideas that the clients want.

 Note: There are other major factors needed to consider before making the design proposal, however, in this post, I will be dealing with .

Idea Generation

There are several ways to create any design composition of a unique house. Every idea is actually unique in a sense that it is not identical to any of other ideas that are generated by designers and even the clients who is the main decision maker if the project will be put into reality. Out of those many ways, let us consider one big factor, the visual effect of the design. The Spatial function is what we can consider one of the obvious factors. It integrates in three-dimensions the program elements and accommodates the multiple function and relationship of spaces.

The Form and shape of the house is dictated by its size and height requirement. As an architect, one of the ways to get a unique shape is to explore all of the possibilities that will match the theme of the design brief. There should be a Design Statement to start with. The design conceptualization process can be broken down into the outline as you progress.

 

This will include;

• Identifying the problem,

• Making Design Solutions to the problem,

• Defining your Design Goals,

• Objectives and

• The Visualization of the design proposal from Sketch to 3d modeling.

Apart from these, there are other factors to consider in presenting a design solution to the client. There are several research required to do a more realistic design approach. This includes the site and contextual analysis, which will affect the size, shape and building orientation as it relates to the existing condition of the site. Some other factors like the views, lightings, air ventilation, topography, weather condition and the other physical features of the site. 

The development of Plan Layout 

Developing The plan layout is the first stage in the presentation of design concept. It will give you a better understanding of the different aspects required in the architectural design challenges. As part of the process, the research and data gathered are essential elements in making design solution. The shape of the plan will affect the form of the house. 

 The Architectural Form

Form is the primary identifying characteristic of a volume. It is established by the shapes and interrelationships of the planes that describe the boundaries of the volume.

 “Architectural form is the point of contact between mass and space … Architectural forms, textures, materials, modulation of light and shade, color, all combine to inject a quality or spirit that articulates space. The quality of the architecture will be determined by the skill of the designer in using and relating these elements, both in the interior spaces and in the spaces around buildings.” according to Edmund N. Bacon The Design of Cities

The Design approach from this example is the exploration of unique design influenced by the form and shape of the house. The form has a relational property that govern the pattern and composition of the element. The perception of shape is derived from the initials of the client which was developed into a volumetric form to define the size, shape and height of the house. 

This was further developed into a more defined volumetric composition and introduced the design elements to complete the house design, such as the placement of windows and doors creating a unique identity which became personal to the client. This is one of the many possibilities of creating a design composition. 

 

The 3d Model 

The Design conceptualization of a house using sketchup and other 3d modeling software are important in the visualization and conceptualization process. With the preparation of 3d model, the design can be more accurate in terms of determining the size, shape and proportion.

The Design Presentation

 The whole process is an activity that is related to the practice of architecture in rendering the design services to the client. The conceptual stage is the stage where designs composition is developed and refined. Ending with the presentation of the design with the following documents that will justify the design solution of the design brief. 

The Design Concept shall be outlined by.

• Design Brief 
• Identifying the Problem
• Design Solution
• Design Goals and Objectives
• The Plan Layout
• Elevations and Sections
• Perspective views

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The Planning Process

The task of doing a master plan for a subdivision is a very challenging task for any designer. The planning activity and design do not come easily. It goes along with much study, observation, research, and analysis. 

Subdivision Planning 

It is one of the comprehensive services rendered by an architect. 

This project is a good subject to share, as we initially do the research, I decided to share the journey hoping that you can learn from this experience. 

The Design Process

How did it all start?

It is very important to share the history of how this project came into place. 

It was amid a global pandemic when this project was conceived. When MM Cortez had initial contact with the client whose mother-in-law, the land owner, won her case from this disputed land. As a result of that, they have decided to do some developments but have no idea what to do and where to start. 

 

Basically, it is located at barangay San Isidro. The land is lying along the barangay road and it is mainly a gateway towards the main hub of the barangay. The main hub is the heart of the community where there are schools, mixed with residential and agricultural land. 

The Site Analysis

 These are the site pieces of information that are essential in the decision-making. To make a more realistic design approach that will help build the community. From the Macro to the Micro level of information, we can get much information as we unfold each of the data gathered from our research. All of these are readily available upon site visitation taking some photographs of the actual condition of the neighborhood and assessing the marketability of the site in terms of its location and accessibility.

 The Circulation and Accessibility to the Site

 The flow of circulation and accessibility to the site is one of the major factors in determining the targeted market. As we go deeper into the feasibility of this project, we can see the actual condition of the site such as the width of roads, availability of the transportation system, and the nearest access to important entry and exit points. 

 

After the site survey, a careful analysis of the site is done. The survey includes;

The area of the site

• Location of the site
• The Land use
• The Existing condition which includes the terrain, utility system, road, vegetation and natural resources, population, etc
• Livable neighborhoods and the growth hub
• Probable impact on existing development and adjacent developments 
• The future developments

Design Standards

What governs the design standards of subdivision planning and design? 

Subdivision planning and design standards are governed by local government guidelines. It follows government regulations in protecting life, health, and property.  And achieving aesthetic goals for the community.

General Design

The major design guidelines and patterns take into consideration the surrounding land use and other natural constraints that impact the quality of the project. 

Subdivision Planning  

The basic framework of the layout is determined by the layout of the street to form a pattern and arrangement of lots. 

It also defines the layout of the site that will provide avenues for utilities and a street classification system. 

There are different options to arrange the street patterns. Here are some of the design guidelines that can be considered:

As we develop the plan, there are several points to consider, finalizing the design process. When it comes to implementation, the cost of the project is the most critical, where the evaluation and presentation of the master plan may vary. This is just one of the many options. As long as the aesthetic design is followed as per the design standards, the decision now will vary from the budget. 

The balance between functionality, within budget, and compliance with the design standards. 

This subdivision plan in its design process still goes a long way. We are just starting with the presentation of the initial design and some of the research and data gathered. The design can change as we continually discuss with the client. 

 

Schematic Design Proposal

The initial study was made and a schematic layout was done initially to show an impression based on the initial data gathered. This includes the number of lots alllocated for the different land uses needed to make a sustainable community. Here's the Aerial View Perspective

To show the blueprint of what is the intent of the proposal, this graphical presentation is to guide the project proponent and the architect with their design goals. This will lead to a better understanding of how the design brief is met. This process will be a daunting task because we need to support the visual presentation with documents like the lot plan, budgetary estimate, and the overall arrangement of the subdivision plan to achieve maximum capacity. This will include;

•  The Financial feasibility studies
• The overall impact of the site to the end-user
• The interrelationship of spaces and their accessibility 

We will update you soon. 

Meanwhile, as you enjoyed reading, I would like to ask some questions;

1. How will you describe the design of the master plan?

2. With the process shown, what else is missing? 

You can share your thoughts in the comment section below, I would be glad to have a healthy discussion to dig deeper into the design of the subdivision plan. 

Architectural Design Projects

 The Architectural Design Project Management team of Arkiventure is launching its project profile readily available in our facebook page 

The new venture has finally been launched to promote our services online. We are now expanding our services to International Market who are looking for Architectural Designers to do the Feasibility Studies, Market and financial feasibility studies, Business plan ideas and Operation, Design Conceptualization and Master Planning for long term.  

Arkiventure has all the architectural Design capabilities, with the years of experience in the Design and Construction of projects. The profile video highlights some of our major projects done and on-going. 

Project Profile:

Here are some of the projects undertaken:

The St. Joseph and Mary Hospital

The Saint Joseph and Mary Hospital is a Design-Build project. This location is in Concepcion Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines. 

The Design of this project is in response to the Covid19 Global Pandemic. The Growing number of patients not only with Covid related illness but with all of the medical needs of the locality. We will be featuring all of its Design process from its inception up to the final Completion of this project. 

As of now, this is on the Design Development stage where the client has given us the "go" signal to proceed with the design development documentation. The completion of all Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Sanitary Drawings are on the way for completion.

The Citta Italia Residence

The Citta Italia is a one of our design profile in Residential design category. It is inspired by a Mediterranian Style of Architecture which is just right for its name. 

With 4 carport and a two storey residence. 

The Fitness Center Gym

This is a completed project in mid 1990. A four-Storey Fun and Fitness Gym right at the heart of The City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines. One of the Structures inside the compound of The Party Place. 

The Party place is a Restaurant with recreational facilities including this Fitness Center.

The following projects listed below are on-going projects under research and development. The MOA are already signed to undertake the Design and Construction of the projects. 

Arkiventure has started the research and the drafting of the Feasibility Studies. 

The Agri-Tourism Development Project

This is a 89 hectare development. An agricultural land converted to Agri-Tourism Development. Initially, the composition of the Master Plan will be with a theme park highlighting the Agricultural and Tourism. Structures that might come into play are Farm market, Restaurants, Hotels and Recreational Facilities and many others.

There are three main themes of the development which will be in three phases as well:

1. Residential development

Part of the development includes residential development that will give priority to the residents of the locality. To provide housing in their growing community. The proportion of which will be determined from the the Market research result. 

It will be a unique housing development as it will consider the use of indigenous materials available like bamboo. This is to incorporate the agri-tourism and promote the cultural heritage.

Farming is encouraged and in this development will boost the farming industry where the residents can olso have within their bakyard a plot to do farming. 

 

2. Agri Tourism Development

The next one is the Agri-Tourism Development. This will be the focal point of the development where majority of the land will be develop in this context.

A place where tourist can be accommodated not only for the purpose of staying overnight but for longer terms with the Training program integrated with it. Facilities should be provided with the Administration building, the Training Centers, Hotels, restaurants, market place and some recreational facilities.

Some facilities under study will be the creation of recycling plants and vermiculture facilities to augment the need of an agricultural facilities.

3. River Bank Landscape Design and Rehabilitation Development

Since the land is surrounded by rivers with a 100 meter riverbank protection, The Landscape design will be incorporated to make full use of the riverbank development and consider the planting of bamboo trees to blend with the hardscape design. 

The Subdivision Master Plan

There are 2 Subdivision projects on the way, One is a 3 Hectare and the other one is a 9 Hectare Development

This is under study for future subdivision development. An agricultural land converted into residential land.

What we do?

The services covered are under the following stages:

Pre-Design 

The Pre-Design stage is where the client is in need of assistance to determine what kind of project is most suitable for his land. There are clients with their available land where they have the budget but don't know if the project they are thinking would be feasible.

Arkiventure helps determine the right kind of project and make its recommendation to what needs to be done and will give a deeper data gathering to support the feasibility studies of the project. 

This is the stage where all aspects of the studies will be covered like;

a. The Feasibility Studies which will cover the technical aspect of the studies. To provide the client with a thorough investigation of the site, its land use, impact to the environment, the site survey and analysis, the design formulation and conceptualization.

b. The Market Feasibility cover the market of the project. If there will be a good proponent to determine the demography that will be essential in the complexity of the project, its catchment area to support the technical aspect of the study.

c. The Financial Feasibility will determine the Return of Investment, The project proposal and its probable cost and the business aspect where the project could generate income. Cash flow projection and analysis to get the maximum income against its expenses.

Design 

Architectural Design is the initial stage to do the building design which will then lead to the other aspect of design such as Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Sanitary.

The design stage is the regular design which contains 4 phases; the Schematic phase, the Design Development phase, The Contract Document Phase and the Construction Phase.

Arkiventure covers all these phases classified as Design-Build service. 

Comprehensive Design Services

The comprehensive services covers the more complex design service such a Subdivision planning, Community planning. The planning aspect that covers a huge land which requires more comprehensive studies. This will also cover the same phases of design aspect from Pre-Design to Design Service. 

If you have a similar project design requirements, you can contact us if you need our services. You can reach us at arkiventure2@gmail.com. Our official website will be launching soon. 

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Schematic Design | Townhouse

What is a Townhouse?

Townhouse is defined as a single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of three or more attached units. The construction shares common foundation to roof but with no vertical overlap of any parts to the adjoining unit . Usually share open spaces to either one side or both sides but with a private parking for each unit.

What is Schematic Design?

A Schematic Design is the initial design studies of an architect, the first stage of his professional practice, in submitting a design proposal to his client. The Schematic Design includes all other aspects of design schemes using free hand sketches to be able to analyze the importance of each of the aspects of the design requirements. The design is developed through the process and in constant meeting with his client. 

The Interpretation of the client's design requirement is the presented in sketch or 3d model to show the initial design. The Schematic may lead to further develop the design in terms of its form and its design character which would affect the color, balance and harmony of all the elements in the design composition.

The Schematic Design is a very important document in the practice of architecture. It will serve as a basis and guide leading to the next stage of his design practice. The ultimate goal of the schematic design is to be able to construct the design, where documentation will be based on the final and approved design scheme. While the design is in the schematic design, all design presented are oftentimes referred to as "Conceptual Design". The four stages comes progressively from Schematic Design phase, Design Development, Contract Document and the Construction stage.

The Townhouse Design and the 3d modelling method

Going back to our Design Scheme, The presentation method is done in 3d model done in sketchup. As we cover the 3d modelling in our blogpost and the architectural design niche, It would be better to relate everything into the tool used that covers the 3d modeling and the art of presentation as well in parallel with the discussion in the architectural profession and the practices.

Sketchup in the design conceptualization of any structure, together with all the softwares in the production of the documents like; autocad and revit for a more precise documentation of the drawing requirements in constructing the design, for other 3d rendering softwares like Lumion, 3D Studio and Rhino to name a few.

What led the designer to come up with that kind of Design Scheme? 

Ever wonder How do architects design a house? There are so many attractive house design you can see around you, just like any work of art, the process is long and the reward is satisfying to all architects. This is a showcase open to the public eye. A portfolio that can speak of itself. 

How do Architects Design a house?

The design process is the same for all, it goes to 4 key stages;

The Schematic

The Design Development

The Contract stage and

The Construction stage

Some architects offer their services up to the contract stage, where they assist their client hire a qualified contractor to build the house they designed. This is the regular service of an architect. But the rise of market competition, a scheme has been formulated to allow architects to build their designs, otherwise known as the Design-Build scheme.

How Is The Design Of A House Done?

The house design is done at the Schematic stage where ideas are first introduced by the client. There may be some inspiration they got from another house design. More often, clients come with different design references and ideas. 

As the client discusses his ideas, the architect in turn makes a visual interpretation of all those ideas together. The appropriate design is carefully analyzed based on many consideration, the design, however is being translated into a hand sketch. As shown below. Having a good sketch can get your client’s approval very quickly. 

This can be a series of meeting with the client to discuss further some of the requirements to build the house design proposal. A 3d model and 3d renderings can go further with the visual presentation.

The Planning process

Sketches are initially done at this stage of the planning process. This will start the story telling process in architecture. In theory, every line that the architect draws will tell a story. Every strokes and every line means a lot. Here’s how the story goes

The floor plan composition

While there are sets of exterior design character the client brings, the architect put it all together with the plan layout first. The manner in which spaces are arranged. This is key player in influencing the style of architecture. But this is done with the intention to solve the circulation pattern where the movement of people living and the functionality of each spaces are analyzed. 

There are different process in doing the plan layout;

Determine The Space Requirements

The architect will list all space requirements need in the  design of a house. This will match the client’s space requirements and the number of his family members. This will lead to the arrangement of the plan that will coincide with the other space requirements needed to function as a family’s dwelling place where they can inter mingle with common spaces like the living spaces, dining areas and play areas. 

Group The Spaces According To Classification

Spaces are classified as public, private, semi private or semi public. It would be easy to group the spaces with these classifications. Which one that requires much privacy within and which one is a semi private. This part of the analysis will go deeper into knowing the family’s activities and personalities. Dad and mom may have different preferences as well as the children. Mom’s usually owns the kitchen, so the different arrangement should be considered with the personality of the person using it most though the whole family shares the space together. As well as the living areas, that can be supported by an adjacent terrace and the traffic flow pattern as a connecting link from outside to inside of the house going to different places of the house like the kitchen and dining to the bedrooms. 

Functional Grouping - Arrange The Plan, Size of Spaces And Shapes

The space classification will be converted into a sketch of spaces that will be arranged according to Functional groupings, circulation and functionality, Sizes and Shapes that will affect traffic flow and accesibility of each spaces according to its related functions.

 A Space diagram can help identify which spaces needs to be in a certain group from private, semi-private, public and semi-public 

There are other factors that will affect the layout. The outside factors are the

• Sun orientation
• The terrain or slope of the site
• Vegetation or existing trees inside the lot
• Adjoining lots

Balloon Diagram

Before heading to the plan layout, the space allocation can be done in the process called balloon planning. This will guide the architect and the client in their decision making process. As part of the evaluation process, the architect will inform the client about the manner of arrangement and why it should be in that arrangement, as it is discussed, the client can give their inputs if the tupe of arrangement will be suitable and comfortable to all members of the family,  if the arrangement is satisfied, then it will progress to the Floor plan Layout. 

Floor plan layout

The floor plan layout is used in two distinct uses;

• Prepare for design development
• Prepare for construction

At this stage the plan layout should be developed in such a way that it will fix all sizes of the space. The basic framework will be drawn to create the outline of the plan. The grid line will serve as a guide to align all walls both exterior and interior. This will give a better means to calculate the total floor area of the house being designed. The placement of doors and window can also be done at this stage. 

The major factor in deciding the budget requirement of the house will be more or less accurate. So the architect can provide an estimated budget per square meters. The design of a house is also determined if the client’s idea will be possible to achieved. With the design idea in mind, the architect can create a new and unique design solution. 

The Plan layout is developed further as the architect prepares another step of the process in designing which the exterior design of the house. 

Exterior Design

 After doing the floor plan layout, the next step is to do the Exterior Design. This is a two-dimensional drawing that will show the 4 sides of the exterior layout of the house. The Plan is a visual respresentation where you will see the top area of the plan and determine the layout in relation to the activities of the end-user. While the Exterior Design is the beatuty and austhethics of the house. The exterior design represents the identity of the client and the character of the house. It can be characterize according to the influences of the different styles of architecture representing different periods. The level of details will determine the different styles of architecture.

The Influences Of Styles In Architecture - The Building Envelope

There are many factors the architect will do the design, most of the clients' requirement are exterior design or the general outlook of the design. The different styles in architectural design such as Mediterranean, Classic, Modern or Contemporary are some of the significant styles obvious in any house design, just to name a few. These styles were derived from the different periods in the history of architecture. The design features are characterized by the details of architectural elements like;

• The Design of Roof and its Shape, 
• Height and Details of Gutter Sections. 
• Detailed Design and Shape of Windows and Doors
• Wall Treatment and 
• Details of Moldings

The different types of roof

Depending on the style and functionality of the house, the different style of roof arrangement will affect the exterior design of the house. It can be a high pitched roof, gable or flat roof. 

Gutter sections represent character and styles in different periods of style in the history of architecture. The style and proportion are considered in terms of functionality and proportion. 

Doors and windows represent styles as well, the size and shape can give different character to the design of a house. It can be a casement type or sliding, full glass window and doors. 

The wall treatment can give a major impact on tge design. Painted walls or with patterned finishes. This will be decided with the clients budget requirements. 

Lastly, the mouldings and accessories required by the design especially in classical styles and other periods in architectural styles.

The Perspective Views 

Part of the architects design process which plays a very important role in getting the design commissioned is the visual presentation. The presentation of the design can be explained by the architect in his design presentation. This presentation explains the full aspect of the design from evaluating the interpretation of space to space relationship according to the peresonality of the end-user. The arrangement of the plan will be influenced by their activities. Generally, the main functions are the Living Room, Dining, Kitchen and the Bedrooms. How they will be arrange will be different based on the preferences of each end-user. This will affect the arrangement of the spaces, sizes, shapes and the adjacencies. The perspective view is the ultimate visual presetation to impress the client, However, the challenge is to maintain the overall style of the house exterior regardless of the changes in space requirements. The shape of the plan can be based on the initial space allocations but it may change eventually after it has been presented to the client but may require to maintain the exterior design.

Here are some examples of the perspective views;

 

Hope you enjoyed reading, please comment below and share your thoughts. 

The Schematic Design Stage

The Architects first Design stage | The Schematic Design | 

This is the initial stage in the practice of Architecture. Before an architect presents his design, he makes an analysis to the design requirement and present a design solution in response to the client's requirements. There are other things that the architect should look at whenever he is doing a design scheme.

There are different styles of presentation at this stage. The perspective view is the architect's impression of the design. The graphic styles are the architect's tool in conveying his ideas . Aside from showcasing his artistry, the design solution goes beyond that. The perspective is what will make the client understand the whole concept of the design. Plans, however, are essential drawing requirement to justify the whole design presentation.

At this point, The client and the architect should come up with initial agreement of the architect's scope of services. May have some probable construction cost of the project where the basis of the Architect's fee is determined. The size of the project will also be determined with the budget costs so that the design will not overshoot the budget.




The Different Presentation of Styles

First impression last. The presentation of the design is dependent on how well you can present the project in different styles. This is one of the discipline an architect should possess or improve to be able to communicate his design properly.

Here are some of the styles done;

1. Sketches are presented on the next appointment with the client. These sketches are the result of the architect's careful analysis of the design solution. It will start with the idea as to what would be the client's perception of what they want to achieve.

2. Manual Renderings and Digital prints

on multiple media, this is the type of presentation done in water color, acrylic, markers as shown below. 

A photo montage is a manual and digital renderings using an actual photo and photoshop software to edit the rendering. 

From this old sample of manual rendering in pen and ink, you can see the drastic change in the design presentation of projects in architecture.

3. 3D Renderings are computer generated renderings. 3d models are done with 3d softwares like 3D Studio max, Sketchup, Autocad 3d, Rhino, Revit and many more.

4. 3D Animations - There are more highly sophisticated 3d animations but in this example, as it is still in the schematic stage, the design and 3d presentation are still being developed. This is done in sketchup to show the overall size and shape of the proposed structure.

Posted by 3dartrender on Sunday, February 18, 2018

There are several ways the architect can do to achieve a design to the client.

For exterior outlook, here are some of the ways to generate the design ideas;

• It can be a design inspiration from any existing design and modify some of its features.
• it can be a metaphor of  shape coming from observation to nature. Like a Seashell, a spider web, ant hill, or to any object that may relate to the context of the design requirement.
• It can be an analogy to any historical building that may be a good basis for a representation of the design and function of the structure you are designing.
• It can be a response to a particular situation that will help solve a particular problem of a client. Like a disabled person who wants to have a multi-level floors without necessary using stairs and lifts. A circular design with ramp can influence the building envelope.
• It can also be an influence of the natural land terrain.

The Schematic design stage is the analysis stage where all aspects of the design is considered, aside from the technical consideration that will influence the design approach. The architect then gives the professional advise as to the Cost of the project.

The Fee of the Architect in this stage is part of the whole fee broken down into the different stages of the design process. It comes usually about 10% to 20% of the architects fee. If the architect's fee ranges from 7% to 10% of the construction cost, The Schematic design fee is determined by computing the 20% of the agreed architect's fee of 7%  to 10% of the construction cost.

For more detailed explanation about the breakdown of fees, see our blog on How do architect's get paid? - a case study


If you have any comments and questions, you can do so by typing  your questions on the comment box below. I would love to discuss further.