Every architect has a specific design creative process they follow during the schematic design phase. Over the years, I developed a method that I found to be more efficient and effective. Today, I’m sharing all my steps, from receiving the project to submitting the first schematic design package.

You can also head to my youtube channel to watch my process live.

MY CREATIVE DESIGN PROCESS

THE 7 STEPS I FOLLOW

Step 1 - Site Introductory

After the client approaches me and we kick-off the project with their program list (a.k.a. spaces needed), I head over to google maps to check the site. I try to understand the context, the neighborhood, the topography, the orientation of the lot, etc. Most clients hire surveyors to get accurate dimensions of their lot, which I use as my base.

Step 2 - 2D Drafting, Space planning

After receiving the survey plan, I start drafting the house border and vaguely adding walls to define my spaces. This phase is also called “a bubble diagram,” where I approximately input the required rooms without worrying too much about the exact square footage just yet. This step allows me to understand the flow of the spaces and their adjacencies.

Bubble Diagram Example. Credits: The Architecture Handbook

Step 3- 3D Modeling, materials, and finishes

After the house starts taking shape, I like to take it over to my 3D software and take a quick tour to make sure the scale of the spaces and the walls are correct, and everything fits perfectly on the site. Oftentimes, Steps 2 & 3 happen simultaneously, and I go back and forth between my 2D software and 3D software to finesse things as I go.

3D Rendering Example. Credit: Malak Bellajdel Designs.

Step 4 - Drawing Set

Once I finish my 2D and 3D, I start drawing production. The most critical part of this step is picking a scale that will be legible. Depending on the size of the project, most of my plans range between 1'/8” = 1’-0” to 1/4”=1’-0”. This scale fits perfectly on an ARCHD 24”x36” sheet. All drawing sheets must include a north arrow, a legend, a scale bar, a drawing title, and room labels.

Step 5 - Image Renderings

Rendering production is the way to sell the project and its concept. The main rendering image is called “the money shot.” The money shot is not necessarily the angle that shows most of the design, but it should be THE angle that explains the design intent when the designer is not there to explain it.

Step 6 - Video Walkthrough

Recording the video walkthrough is probably my favorite step since it gives the most holistic view of the project. I try to put on my storyteller hat and use my video to tell my design story. I put myself as the intended user who’s about to approach the building for the first time. Where would I look first? Is there an anchor element that will guide my eye to explore the project? Which space would I move to next? Click here to watch a video walkthrough example

Step 7 - Package Design

The last step is to package my design for the client to review and give me feedback. The package usually includes a PDF file with all the drawings and renderings and an MP4 video format for the walkthrough. All packages are uploaded to a google drive folder and shared with the concerned parties. Click here to see a client package example.

Architecture is a creative field, and there’s no “one process fits all.” The process above is specific to my way of approaching projects and solving problems for my clients.

I would love to hear about your creative design process in the comment section below.

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My Creative Design Process - The 7 Steps I Follow