Trevor Scott explains the sustainable architecture process
You’ve decided you want a sustainable architecture design. Here’s what you can expect after you call GreenEarth Shelter to make an appointment.
Initial appointment
We have an initial “get to know each other” meeting where we discuss your brief and budget together; along with other issues, such as materials of construction, and any special features you would like to incorporate into your proposed building. After discussing and determining my fee, I follow up with a site visit to check out the orientation, size, topography and other details of the block. I make a brief survey, which generally involves measuring up, and taking some levels and photographs.
Schematic design
Then I start the Schematic or sketch design stage of a building for you, based on the agreed budget, brief and site conditions; and taking into account all the possibilities for a sustainable design that conserves as much energy as possible. Thus orientation is vitally important for winter sun in living areas; while items such as cross ventilation, eaves and pergolas are also important for improved summer cooling.
Just as important is the choice of building materials. For example, we might look at using heavy materials such as brick or stone for thermal mass, and lightweight, absorbent materials such as fibre glass batts or straw bales for insulation. And certainly the amount of glass – and the placement of windows and external doors – will have a very important part to play in all of this. The Schematic Design stage is complete when I have accurate scale drawings and sketches ready for you to look at.
Design development
After some modifications we proceed to the second stage, Design Development. This is a more detailed study of the design and includes a more accurate estimate of the building cost.
Documentation
The third stage is called Documentation; this is where I make accurate working drawings and specifications of the building. This stage is very time consuming and is worth about 40% of my fee.
Contract administration
The fourth and final stage is called Contract Administration. At this stage I monitor the building construction, as the “nuts and bolts” of the building are put together. It is most important after investing in accurate drawings and specifications, that the builders construct the building exactly as described. It is also the architect’s job during this stage to check the builder’s work and certify all claims for progress payments.