ARCHITECT'S SERVICES

The previous post was about the advantages that an Architect possesses over a draughtsman or a civil engineer.  

This post will give you, the client, an idea of the responsibilities, the scope of work and services that you can expect from the Architect, as prescribed by the Council of Architecture (CoA) in the Conditions of Engagement of Architect

SCHEDULE (STAGES) OF SERVICES OF AN ARCHITECT:

The Architect, after taking instructions from the Client, renders services under the following Stages:

CLIENTS BRIEF – STAGE 1:

Client's requirements - The Architect ascertains the Client’s requirements of the project.

Site visit - He visits the Site and examines site constraints and potential.

Examines the Codes, Legislation and standards- as they affect the project.

Requirement list - He prepares in agreement with the Client, a list of requirements.

Conditions of Engagement, scope of work/fees - He acquaints the Client with the Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Charges.

Letter of Appointment - The Client engages the Architect and both effectively enter an agreement by signing a standard Letter of Appointment.

Fees payable - Advance (Retainer) - The Architect is paid a Retainer (Advance) of Rs 20,000/- or 5% of the total fees payable, whichever is higher, as a token of Intent.

CONCEPT DESIGN – STAGE 2:

Site evaluation - The Architect prepares a report on site evaluation, state of existing buildings, if any; and analysis and impact of proposed development on the immediate environment.

Survey of site - He obtains from the Client or gets a detailed topographical survey of the site prepared, at the Clients expense, which shall include all the necessary data related to the existing structure, existing public utility lines, trees, pavements, roads, restrictions, easements and boundaries.

Soil tests - He obtains from the Client or gets soil tests, site borings or such other tests on sub-soil conditions done at the Clients expense.

Conceptual designs - He prepares preliminary conceptual designs to explain his understanding of the Client’s requirements.

Rough cost estimate of project - He prepares a rough estimate of the cost of the project on the basis of the area. Under no circumstance does the architect guarantee such estimate of cost.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 10% of the total fees payable.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND DRAWING – STAGE 3:

Incorporate changes in drawings - The Architect modifies the conceptual designs incorporating required changes.

Preliminary drawings - He prepares the preliminary drawings, sketches, study model etc. for the Client’s approval.

Preliminary cost estimate - He prepares a preliminary estimate of cost on the basis of the area.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 20% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stage 2.

DRAWINGS FOR CLIENTS / STATUTORY APPROVALS – STAGE 4:

Drawings for approval from Statutory authorities - The Architect incorporates the Client’s suggestions prepares drawings necessary for approval from the Client / statutory authorities.

Compliance - He ensures compliance with codes, standards and legislation as applicable.

Assist in obtaining approval - He assists the Client in obtaining the statutory approval, if required.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 35% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2 and 3.

WORKING DRAWINGS AND TENDER DOCUMENTS – STAGE 5:

Provide information to consultants - The Architect provides Consultants with all the necessary information to allow them to perform their specialist work.

Specifications, detailed estimate of cost - He prepares Working Drawings, Specifications and Schedule of Quantities sufficient to prepare Estimate of Cost, (in consultation with his consultants).

Preparation of Contract documents - He advises the Client and gets approval on the form of Contract and method of placing the Contract.

List of Contractors - He prepares a short list of suitable Contractors with appropriate justification.

Tender drawings - He prepares Tender drawings and tender documents including mode of measurement, method of payments, quality control procedures and other conditions of contract, to describe the whole project adequately for the purpose of placing the main Contract.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 45% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3 and 4.

APPOINTMENT OF CONTRACTORS – STAGE 6:

Invite tenders - The Architect invites, receives and analyses Tenders.

Appointment of Contractors - He advises the Client on the appointment of the Contractors.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 55% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3, 4 and 5.

CONSTRUCTION - STAGE 7:

Working drawings for construction - The Architect prepares Working Drawings and details for the proper execution of works during construction.

Issue drawings to Contractors - He issues sufficient copies of working drawings, schedules, specifications, Bill of Quantities and other contract documents to the Contractors for the proper execution of works.

Approves Works progress schedule - He approves the Works Progress Schedule, prepared by the Contractors.

Approves samples - He approves samples of various elements and components submitted by the Contractors and Vendors

Appointment of Site Supervisor - He advises the Client to appoint and pay a Construction Manager or Clerk of Works or Site Supervisor, (who shall work under the guidance of the Architect), for the day-to-day supervision at site, in order to ensure that the work at site proceeds in accordance with the contract documents and drawings.

Attends meetings - He attends conferences, meetings to ensure that the project proceeds generally in accordance with the conditions of contract.

Site visits - He Visits the site at intervals mutually agreed upon, to inspect and evaluate the construction work and keeps the client informed on the quality and progress of work. Where necessary, he clarifies any decision and offers interpretation of the drawings and specifications at site.

Quality control check at site - The Architect shall ensure that the drawings are being correctly interpreted at site, and the finishing is of acceptable quality. In case of adverse certification, the payments of the contractor shall be with held until the defects have been rectified.

Advises on unexpected time/cost variations - He advises the Client if the Contract time is likely to be varied, or if the total authorized expenditure is likely to be exceeded.

Check Contracor's bills - If required by the Client, the Architect checks the Contractors applications for payment (Bills) with the help of the site engineers, and issues Certificates authorizing payment for an additional fees of 1%.

Issue Certificate of completion - He issues Certificate of Virtual Completion of works.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 90% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

COMPLETION – STAGE 8:

Completion reports - The Architect prepares and submits completion reports and drawings for the project as required.

Occupation certificate - He assists the Client in obtaining Completion or Occupation Certificate from the Statutory Authorities wherever required.

As-built drawings - He issues two sets of as-built drawings including services and structures.

Fees payable - The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 100% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages and the retainer.

Now that you are aware of the services that can be expected of an Architect, it is time to choose an Architect. The sooner you bring an Architect on board, the more fully your vision can be realized – even exceeding your expectations. To choose the right Architect read more in the next post:

• CHOOSING THE RIGHT ARCHITECT 

Related posts:

• PREPARING THE PROJECT BRIEF
• CHOICES
• VAASTU PLAN
• CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT

ADVANTAGES THAT ONLY AN ARCHITECT HAS

In the previous post you read about the work of an Architect and the kind of work he does. Yet, many people are unsure whether they really need an Architect as there are quacks who offer plans for a very low price. 

In this post you can read about the special advantages that you will have by selecting an Architect for the design and construction of your house. 

ADVANTAGES OF HIRING AN ARCHITECT: 

Whether a person is dreaming of a new home or planning a commercial development, the key to ensuring that his vision becomes reality with least stress, is to involve an Architect early. An Architect enriches any project in the following ways:

An Architect adds value: A mediocre building built cheaply, is money wasted whereas a building based on a thorough analysis of your needs and design options, by a professional trained to see and realise all the possibilities, is likely to provide satisfaction beyond expectations and add value to it.

He gives form to the client's vision: An Architect involves you in the creative process and uses his extensive training and experience to give form to your vision and then integrate it intelligently into the building site, to produce an attractive project that reflects your aspirations.

His buildings are in harmony with nature: Houses designed by Architects will be sensitive to their surrounding environment and will use the natural elements, topography and exploit the scenic views in the best way possible.

He provides a functional and aesthetic design:  An Architect is concerned with the aesthetic aspect and uses his creativity, his knowledge (Vaastu Shastra), his experience to create spaces and buildings that are functional, visually appealing, comfortable, healthy and a pleasure to be in.

His designs are adaptable:  An Architect ensures the long term use of the buildings he designs, by integrating adaptability into his designs, so that they evolve with new ways of living or working.

He is familiar with local building codes and by laws: and ensures that the project will comply with all the building regulations and neighborhood building zoning laws. He can also help you in getting the necessary Statutory approval and the completion or occupation certificate.

He is a trusted advisor to the client:  An Architect collaborates with you, the Client and serves you as a trusted advisor. He is knowledgeable about good, cost efficient products and helps you in choosing the right Contractor and the best form of Contract.

He manages the budget and time schedule:  An Architect is sensitive to the Client’s budget and time schedule. He manages the project, people and issues, ensuring that the deadlines are met and the costs are controlled

He co-ordinates with other agencies: Though an Architect cannot claim to have the detailed knowledge of specialist building disciplines essential throughout all stages of a project, he knows when to consult and co-ordinate with other professionals (engineers, quantity surveyors, building contractors etc) for their specialist expertise.

He inspects the quality of work:  An Architect inspects and evaluates the building construction works, and ensures that the quality of construction is of a high standard. He makes sure that the Contractor corrects any defects in the work.

He verifies the Contractor's bills:  An Architect verifies and certifies the Contractors Bills for payment, based on the actual progress of work at Site, thus ensuring that the Contractor doesn’t get paid more than for the work he has done, or for defective work.

He handles project management:  An Architect can be entrusted to manage the project from selection of the site to the completion of the building, while you focus on your core operations, thus saving you valuable time and providing you with complete peace of mind.

So tap the knowledge, efficiency, environmental awareness and brilliant design that Architects bring to any project. The sooner you bring an Architect on board, the more fully your vision can be realized – even exceeding your expectations. To get a fair idea of the services and responsibilities expected of an Architect, go to:

• ARCHITECT' SERVICES

Related posts:

PREPARING THE PROJECT BRIEF
CHOICES
VAASTU PLAN
CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT

SUMMARY OF AN ARCHITECT'S WORK

After preparing the Project Brief and preparing a rough sketch of the plan you have in mind (using the Vastu Plan), it is time to meet an Architect. Who is an Architect and what is the nature of his work?  

The word "architect" comes from Latin architectus, which in turn is derived from the Greek arkhitekton (arkhi, chief + tekton, builder"). An Architect is a person trained and licensed to plan, design and oversee (supervise) the construction of a house or a building.

OBJECT OF AN ARCHITECT:

An Architects’ primary object is to provide for the spatial and shelter needs of people by the creative organisation of materials and components into a structure which is functional, economical, practical, artistic and aesthetic while considering pragmatic elements such as cost, construction limitations and technology.

ARCHITECT'S TRAINING:

Architects are trained in many areas, from historic preservation to structural engineering. Like doctors and lawyers, Architects need to complete extensive university programs of at least 5 years and lengthy internships. In most parts of the world, Architects must pass a series of rigorous exams in order get the license to practise. In India, the initials 'B.Arch.' designate a registered or licensed Architect. <

SUMMARY OF AN ARCHITECT’S WORK:

Client's brief: An Architect receives instructions from the Client on the type, function, capacity and approximate cost of the building required.

Site inspection: He surveys and inspects the site of the proposed building and obtains an accurate site plan.

Sketch: He then prepares a sketch scheme of the floor plans, the elevations, and the perspective drawings. These schemes may have to be revised a few times before one is finally approved.

Plan approval:  from local statutory bodies and local authorities is obtained.


Contract and working drawings:  At the next stage Contract documents are drawn up including detailed drawings and specifications and estimates of costs.

Site visits:  Once the Contract is awarded to a Building Contractor, the Architect has to pay periodic visits to the building site to supervise the work in progress and issue instructions to the Site Supervisor.

Check contractor's bills: He also checks the Contractor's bills for payment. 

Evaluation:  An Architect may also be called upon to prepare land surveys, evaluate lands and buildings for insurance, mortgage or transfer purposes.

Technical advice: He may give technical advice on planning, improving or beautifying landscapes (that is the field of landscape architecture), highways, entire towns, estates, historical monuments, etc.

PERSONALITY TRAITS EXPECTED OF AN ARCHITECT: 

The role of the Architect is constantly evolving. When choosing an Architect, look for the following traits:

Rational:  He should have a rational and pragmatic approach as his work is an interdisciplinary field, drawing upon mathematics, science, art, technology, social sciences, politics and history.

Analytical: He should have an analytical and mathematical ability to help him solve design problems and handle building cost and estimations.

Imaginative:  He should be imaginative- a creative artist with an interest in designing.

Observant: He needs to be observant and aware of surrounding social and environmental factors.

Up-to-date:  He should show a keen desire to update knowledge of latest developments in structural techniques and materials,

Understanding of law and finance:  He should have good understanding of legal and financial matters.


Indoors and outdoors:  An Architect has to do outdoor as well as indoor work.

Gives clear instructions:  He should have the ability to issue clear instructions and explanations to team-mates, clients and contractors.

Perceptive:  He should have a good perception of social and psychological attitudes,

Authoritative:  He should have an authoritative personality, as he needs to give instructions to a number of people, technical and non-technical, including Architects, Contractors, Surveyors, Designers, Structural Engineers, Plumbing, Sanitary, Electrical, Acoustical and Air-Conditioning Consultants, along with Bricklayers, Masons, Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers. 

This is the summary of an Architect and the work he does. Many people are unsure whether they really need an Architect as there are quacks who offer plans for very low prices. In the next post you can read about the special advantages that only a qualified Architect has.

• ADVANTAGES THAT ONLY AN ARCHITECT HAS

Related posts:

• PREPARING THE PROJECT BRIEF
• CHOICES
• VAASTU PLAN
• CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT