YARDSTICK STUDIO DESIGN PROCESS

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Every project is unique, and the design process may vary depending on a project's scope, complexity, and goals. Most projects, however, follow a structured framework that guides the work from initial planning through construction.

At Yardstick Studio, the design process is organized into two phases:

Phase I: Vision & Design

The Programming & Discovery phase is the foundation of every successful project. This information-gathering stage focuses on understanding the aspirations, requirements, and limitations that will guide the design process. Through discussions, research, site evaluation, and documentation, Yardstick Studio works closely with clients to define the project's objectives and establish the criteria for success. The goal is to create a clear roadmap that aligns the design with the client's vision while identifying opportunities and constraints early in the process.

During this phase, we document project directives, program functions and space requirements, applicable codes and regulations, and site-specific factors such as context, climate, topography, access, and utilities. We also explore budget expectations, project costs, and scheduling considerations to ensure the project is grounded in practical realities. The information gathered during Programming & Discovery provides the framework for all subsequent design decisions, helping to create a project that is thoughtful, responsive, and aligned with the owner's goals from the very beginning.

Understanding project goals, requirements, budget, schedule, site conditions, and the opportunities and constraints that will shape the design.

The Schematic Design phase transforms the ideas and goals identified during Discovery and Conceptual Design into a coordinated architectural concept. During this stage, the general scope and conceptual design of the project are established, including the scale, organization, and relationship of proposed spaces and building components. Floor plans, building massing, site relationships, and exterior character begin to take shape, providing a clear vision of the project's overall direction.

Schematic Design is also an opportunity to explore alternatives and evaluate different approaches before committing to more detailed technical development. Design solutions are reviewed against the project's program, budget, schedule, and site constraints to ensure the project remains aligned with the owner's goals. By the conclusion of this phase, the design team and client should have a shared understanding of the project's direction and a reasonable basis for analyzing the anticipated cost of construction.

Deliverables at the end of the Schematic Design phase may include conceptual site plans, preliminary building plans, elevations and sections, visualizations, and a statistical summary of the proposed project. These materials provide the foundation for the next phase of design and serve as an important milestone in confirming project scope, quality, and budget expectations.

Exploring design alternatives and developing the preferred concept into a coordinated architectural solution through preliminary plans, elevations, visualizations, and project scope definition.

Phase II: Documentation & Construction

The Design Development phase builds upon the approved Schematic Design and focuses on refining the project while coordinating the systems, materials, and details that bring a building to life. During this stage, design decisions are evaluated and resolved in greater detail to minimize significant changes during the preparation of Construction Documents.

The design team develops a clear, coordinated description of the project's architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, ensuring that design intent, functionality, constructability, and budget remain aligned. Deliverables typically include more detailed plans, elevations, sections, specifications, material selections, and an updated cost estimate, providing the foundation for the Construction Documentation phase.

Refining the approved design and coordinating building systems, materials, and key project details.

The Construction Documentation stage transforms the approved design into the detailed drawings and specifications required for pricing, permitting, and construction. During this stage, the design team prepares a coordinated set of documents that clearly communicate design intent and establish the technical requirements for building the project.

Construction documents consist of both drawings and specifications. Drawings provide the graphic representation of the project, illustrating dimensions, layouts, materials, and construction details. Specifications provide the written requirements, defining material standards, workmanship, and performance criteria. Together, these documents serve as the foundation for contractor pricing, permitting, and construction.

Deliverables typically include detailed architectural and engineering drawings, project specifications, schedules, and other supporting documentation necessary for bidding, permitting, and construction.

Preparing detailed drawings and specifications for pricing, permitting, and construction.

The Bidding & Permitting stage bridges the gap between design and construction. During this stage, Yardstick Studio works closely with the owner and contractor to obtain pricing, review proposals, and evaluate construction costs. Questions that arise during bidding are addressed, and the construction documents may be clarified or refined as needed to ensure that contractors have a clear understanding of the project scope and requirements.

At the same time, the project is submitted to the appropriate authorities for review and approval. We assist in securing the permits and approvals required for construction and respond to comments or requests for additional information from regulatory agencies.

The goal of this stage is to establish a final construction cost, obtain all necessary approvals, and prepare the project for a successful transition into construction.

Obtaining contractor pricing, reviewing proposals, and securing required approvals and permits.

The Construction Support phase extends architectural services into the construction process, helping ensure that the project is built in accordance with the design intent and project specifications. During this stage, Yardstick Studio maintains communication between the client, contractor, consultants, and other team members, facilitating coordination and helping to resolve questions as they arise. We also respond to requests for supplemental information, clarifications, and additional drawings when needed to support the construction team.

Construction Support typically includes site observations at key milestones to review progress and evaluate whether the work generally conforms to the design documents and established quality standards. This phase provides an important opportunity to identify potential issues early, coordinate solutions, and support informed decision-making throughout construction. As the project nears completion, the construction documents may also be updated to reflect significant field modifications and as-built conditions, providing a more accurate record of the completed work.

Providing guidance during construction to help ensure the project is executed in accordance with the design intent.

Each stage consists of a series of interconnected activities with specific objectives and deliverables. This structured approach ensures that project goals, program requirements, budget considerations, and design decisions are carefully evaluated before moving forward, creating a clear path from vision to completion.