The importance of Architecture Pre-Design

Starting off on the right foot. The importance of Architecture Pre-Design

Traveling is a lot simpler in this day and age. When I was younger we used to pull out the map to figure out where we were going. Things improved a little when services like MapQuest came out. Dad would print off the turn by turn directions, we piled into the family minivan, and off we went on our two & a half-hour trip to the big city. It’s totally different today. With the press of a few buttons, the trusty phone GPS will tell you where you need to go, how long it will take, and the best route for your trip. If only there was a GPS for your next building project. Luckily there is, we call this Pre-Design!

What is Pre-design?

This may be the first time you have heard of this, but if you are planning on constructing a substantial building, Pre-design is essential! It is the GPS that will make sure that your final building accomplishes what you want it to. At TKZ Architecture we believe in Pre-Design, It helps get your project started of on the right foot.

The Pre-Design Architecture Phase involves identifying your building requirements, gathering the appropriate information to make your project a success. During Architectural Pre-Design we sit with the client to fully understand all of your needs and goals for the project. We also do research into the applicable building codes, zoning codes, accessibility codes, and other relevant criteria. With this information, we can develop a program for your project.

What is a building program?

The American Institute of Architects defines a program in this way: “Architectural programming involves research and decision making that helps the architect and owner establish performance requirements and design criteria for the project. Programming can range broadly from identifying the project’s goals and objectives to particular elements, such as the precise characteristics of a space.” What this means for you is that your project will have clarity. Clarity on the size of what’s being built, the different functional spaces, and the quality of those spaces.

Why is this important?

The reasons programming and predesign are important are many. One reason is that Architectural Pre-Design will let you know what can legally be built on your property, and the constraints of that building. Another thing pre-design will provide is the quantity and quality of what needs to be built. This will help you as the owner better understand the cost involved to bring your project to life. Pre-Design and programing also provide a clear roadmap or GPS for what the project should aim for. This is invaluable when building! The better the planning at the beginning, the better the results.

Remember that the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Our Architecture Pre-Design Service helps you make sure your steps are in the right direction.