Project Planning and Design

Project planning is a process where you create a budget, schedule, and scope of work to achieve the best balanced plan.

As you work on one section of your project plan, adjust the others as needed to reflect the changes. Continue adjusting each section until you’re satisfied with the design, budget, and schedule.

A well coordinated plan is essential to clearly communicating your project to contractors.

Fully develop your plan by following the Planning Phase, before moving on to the Bidding Phase.

If you need to diagram your project, we show you how to create the project diagrams.

How much design work is required and what does it cost?

The project size, type, and complexity, determine the amount and type of professional design required.

• Architects – design buildings from the ground-up.
• Interior designers – design interior renovations.
• Engineers – design structural, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems.

If you want to knock out a wall, or build an addition to your house, an architect may be needed. If you are not looking to change the structure of your home, an interior designer may be a better fit. Engineers are licensed to design the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems that make the building function.

TIP: “Architects and interior designers design the way buildings look and feel. Engineers design the way buildings work.”

Architectural design often costs 4% to 7% cost of construction; engineering, 1.5% to 3% cost of construction. Engineering design is usually subcontracting through the architect to ensure coordination. The smaller the project, the higher the cost of design will be as a percentage of cost of construction.

Do you need professional design?

Architects everywhere are cringing as we tell you this. In most residential renovation projects the homeowner is the designer, and most homeowners don’t know much about construction. Contractors know that, which is why it’s important to clearly communicate your needs, wishes, and requirements in the project documents.

Getting a solid price in the bidding phase and maintaining control during the construction phase, depends on how well you communicate the project.

Building codes vary by location. In new construction, additions, and in renovations involving structural and systems changes, big cities usually require licensed designers to provide stamped drawings. It helps ensure the design correctly follows building codes and construction standards. It’s a good idea to hire an architect and/or an engineer, if you have a complicated project such as that, even if it is not required in your city. It will help you make sure your project is built correctly and passes the permit process and city inspections.

The permit department in your city can tell you what you need. Contact an architect or engineer near you to find out about specific fees including required minimum hours and trip charges.

TIP: If you need professional design services, make sure you also read Planning – Create the Project Diagrams to better understand the design process.