Design Development: Refining Your Vision with Detailed Designs and Material Selection

Once the Schematic Design phase is complete and your initial ideas are brought to life, the next step in the architectural process is the Design Development phase. This is where your project begins to take on a more concrete form, and we focus on refining the details, selecting materials, and preparing more precise plans.

At JMG Architects, the Design Development phase is a crucial part of ensuring your project is not only beautiful but also functional, practical, and aligned with your vision. In this blog post, we’ll explore what happens during this stage and how it sets the foundation for the construction phase.

What is the Design Development Phase?

The Design Development phase is the third step in our architectural process. In this phase, we take the preliminary designs created during the Schematic Design phase and develop them into more detailed plans. This is where we lock in the architectural, structural, and material aspects of the project. By the end of this phase, all major design decisions have been made, and we have a clear path forward for construction.

The key focus of this phase is refining the design by adding more detail and making crucial decisions about materials, finishes, and systems that will bring your project to life.

Key Elements of the Design Development Phase

1. Detailed Drawings

In the Design Development phase, we build on the initial sketches and basic floor plans developed during the Schematic Design phase, adding more specific details to the project. Here’s what we do:

• Architectural Plans: We refine the floor plans, adding detailed dimensions and specifications for walls, windows, doors, and other structural elements.
• Exterior and Interior Design: We develop the exterior and interior designs in greater detail, including facade treatments, roof designs, and interior layouts.
• Structural Layouts: In addition to the architectural elements, we work on the structural aspects of the project, ensuring that the design is supported by a strong foundation.

These detailed drawings provide a comprehensive view of how the building will look and function. They also serve as the basis for the Construction Documents that will be used during the construction phase.

Want to see how our detailed drawings come to life? Explore our design development process.

2. Material Selection

One of the most exciting parts of the Design Development phase is selecting the materials and finishes that will give your project its unique look and feel. At JMG Architects, we guide you through this process, helping you choose materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and cost-effective.

Here’s how we approach material selection:

• Windows and Doors: We help you choose the right windows and doors based on style, energy efficiency, and budget. Whether you’re looking for large glass windows to bring in natural light or more traditional options, we ensure your selection aligns with the overall design.
• Flooring and Finishes: You’ll choose the materials for flooring, such as hardwood, tiles, or polished concrete, and the finishes for walls, countertops, and other surfaces. We provide expert guidance on how different materials affect the look and durability of your project.
• Exterior Materials: For the building’s exterior, we assist you in selecting materials like bricks, cladding, or stucco, ensuring that your project looks beautiful and can withstand the local climate.

By the end of this phase, all material selections are finalized, giving you a clear idea of how your building will look and feel. Learn more about how we guide clients through the material selection process.

3. Cost Updates

As we refine the design and finalize material selections, it’s important to ensure the project stays within your budget. During the Design Development phase, we work closely with you to update the budget based on the more detailed design and material choices.

Here’s how we manage cost updates:

• Refining the Budget: We provide a detailed breakdown of the costs for materials, finishes, and construction labor based on the updated design.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: If the updated budget exceeds your target, we collaborate with you to find alternatives, such as adjusting materials or scaling back certain design elements, while maintaining the integrity of the project.
• Financial Transparency: Our goal is to ensure there are no surprises later in the process. We keep you informed of any changes and ensure that the project remains financially viable.

This phase ensures that your project is financially aligned with your goals. Discover more about our budget update process.

The Result: A Finalized, Detailed Design

By the end of the Design Development phase, you’ll have:

• Detailed architectural and structural drawings that provide a clear vision of how your project will be built.
• Finalized material selections that reflect your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.
• An updated budget that aligns with the refined design and materials, ensuring the project is ready to move forward without financial surprises.

This phase is critical in preparing your project for the next step: the Construction Documents phase, where we prepare the formal blueprints and plans required for construction and permits.

Why the Design Development Phase is Important

The Design Development phase is essential because it transitions your project from a conceptual idea to a detailed, actionable plan. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Detailed Planning: By refining the design and selecting materials, we ensure that every detail is accounted for before construction begins.
• Budget Control: This phase provides an updated budget, giving you confidence that the project remains financially sustainable.
• Material Decisions: Choosing materials during this phase ensures that the final look and feel of your project aligns with your vision and goals.

At JMG Architects, we take great care during the Design Development phase to make sure your project is on track for success.

How JMG Architects Guides You Through Design Development

At JMG Architects, we believe that collaboration is key during the Design Development phase. We work closely with you to make sure that the design reflects your vision and that every decision—from the layout of the rooms to the materials used—is carefully considered. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your project is not only aesthetically stunning but also functional, sustainable, and financially sound.

Ready to Move Forward?

If you’re ready to refine your design and bring it closer to reality, JMG Architects is here to help. Contact us today to start the Design Development phase and move one step closer to realizing your vision.

Learn more about our full Architectural Design Process or discover how we prepare detailed Construction Documents for the next stage of your project.