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Certainly, in architecture, the Construction Phase – Office is an essential part of the construction process. This phase involves the architect’s responsibilities once construction is underway, particularly while the architect is in the office (as opposed to on-site).
Here are some of the key responsibilities that might be included:
The architect will handle the administration of the construction contract between the client and the contractor.
The architect will manage the project’s timeline and budget, keep track of all documentation, and coordinate with the various individuals involved, such as engineers, contractors, and consultants.
The architect will finalize architectural drawings and specifications, ensuring they are in line with the project’s budget and time constraints.
Issues invariably arise during construction, and the architect must often come up with creative solutions while adhering to the design vision. This could include structural changes, alternative construction methods, or reallocating resources.
Contractors and subcontractors often have questions on interpreting the design plans and specifications. The architect will need to provide clarifications and potential revisions.
Any changes to the design plans or specifications sought by the contractor must be approved by the architect. The architect must assess how these changes will affect the project overall.
The architect can be responsible for submitting necessary permit applications to local authorities, ensuring the project complies with local building codes and regulations.
The architect approves payment requests from contractors, verifying that the requested amount aligns with the amount of work completed.
From the office, the architect reviews reports from site visits, ensuring the construction work aligns with the design plans.
Throughout the project, the architect will need to maintain comprehensive documentation. This includes correspondence, drawings, meeting minutes, billings, and changes orders, among others. This documentation often proves vital for resolving disputes, questions of liability, or for future reference.
The architect often facilitates regular meetings between all parties involved in the project. This may include client meetings, contractor meetings, coordination meetings with engineers or other consultants. The purpose of these meetings is to keep everyone updated, handle potential issues that have arisen and ensure the project is on track.
Once construction is nearly completed, the architect will participate in the project closeout process. This involves confirming that all work has been done according to the project documentation and standards. The architect will usually conduct a final walk-through to identify any issues that need fixing (also known as a ‘punch list’). They also make sure warranties, manuals, and other project-related documents are in order and handed over to the client.
Some architects conduct post-occupancy evaluations, which involve visiting the completed project after a certain period to evaluate how well the building is serving its intended functions and where improvements can be made in future projects.
If a project is designed with a specific sustainability goal (like LEED certification), the architect will ensure that these requirements are being properly executed and documented. This might involve submitting necessary evidence to the certifying body and coordinating with them often.
When construction is underway, the architect is usually the one to ensure that all work complies with local building codes and zoning laws, as well as with any additional environmental or safety regulations.
In some cases, the architect may have to source, specify and order materials for the project. They have to ensure that the material is both aesthetically suitable and structurally sound.
Shop drawings are detailed plans or blueprints submitted by the contractor or subcontractors, showing how they intend to implement parts of the architectural design. It’s the architect’s job to review these and make sure they adhere to the intended plan.
As construction progresses, minor modifications to the design are almost inevitable. The architect needs to refine and amend the plans as required, often providing further detailed drawings for particular parts of the construction.
This process involves the architect and other parties working together to improve the project’s performance and ensure cost-effectiveness.
On more complex projects, an architect will need to maintain clear communication with other specialists or consultants involved, such as structural engineers, HVAC or electrical engineers, to ensure a harmonious and cohesive approach.
Delays can be costly, and the architect is often tasked with the management of any disruptions to the project by creating alternative plans or finding solutions.
The architect can play a key role in identifying and addressing potential risks associated with the project in order to mitigate any adverse effects these risks may have.
Architects often act as the main point of contact for all stakeholders involved in a project, including clients, contractors, sub-contractors, suppliers, local authorities, and others. Good communication is crucial for everything to run smoothly and for all parties to know exactly what is required of them.
The architect keeps the client updated about the project’s progress and any issues that arise. It is also their responsibility to make sure the client understands the implications of any decisions they make on the project.
Usually after the project is complete, the architect will provide “record drawings” to the client. These are revised versions of the design drawings, which show the “as-built” conditions and any alterations from the initial designs that occurred during construction.
After construction is complete, many projects have a warranty period (also called a defect liability period), where any issues that arise related to the construction work done are fixed by the contractor at no additional cost. Architect is generally responsible to review and approve these warranty claims.
If any disagreements or disputes arise between parties involved in the project, an architect may be involved in their resolution due to their comprehensive understanding of the project
On completion of projects, architects often assess the successes and challenges of a project as a form of reflective learning. This can include a review of design, technical solutions, budgeting, programming, and other aspects critical for the delivery of a project.
Completed projects also typically serve to showcase the architect’s work. Hence, documentation of the entire process, taking photographs on completion, etc., are often necessary for marketing and portfolio management.
If Building Information Modeling (BIM) is used in the project, architects may have a key role in coordinating and managing the BIM process. This includes ensuring the information is updated and used effectively for enhanced project delivery.
In addition to on-site checks, architects play a crucial role in upholding the quality of construction from the office by reviewing reports, examining photos, and conducting virtual walkthroughs if possible.
Construction phase can serve the architect as an opportunity to continuously refine their skills in all aspects of project delivery including project management, different types of construction, latest materials on the market, etc.
Architects work closely with interior designers, landscape architects and other professionals as needed to ensure that all aspects of the project are harmoniously integrated.
This involves supervising the implementation of energy-efficient designs and systems. In case of green building standards, the architect has to take care that all requirements are properly executed and installed.
For commercial, urban, or public projects, ensuring accessibility is a key requirement. The architect supervises if all the accessibility standards are being implemented as per legal requirements and design stipulations.
