Design Development is a term defining the later stages of graphic representation of a custom design Project. In the architectural or building arts fields, it may follow the stages of initial meetings and programming of area/spatial requirements, Schematic Design and Preliminary Design. For many architectural projects, Design Development includes items that constitute the next phase of work, “Working Drawings” or “Contract Documents”. All aspects of the design will be systematically enhanced in their definitiveness, accuracy and aesthetic appeal during this stage of the project.
Tangible exhibits associated with Design Development usually include dimensioned site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections of the proposed building and walls and/or perspective views of the proposed project.
Other methods of graphic communication may also be employed. Computer based drawing programs of computer assisted drawing (CAD), building information modeling (BIM), computer assisted sketching (SketchUp) and computer assisted rendering are offered in the Design Development stage of work when appropriate.
Design Development goals include a determination of the:
- Floor area(s) required to accomplish the Project program;
- Detailed massing and graphic detailing of the building envelope;
- Detailed appearance of the structure;
- Rough ideas of structural, mechanical and electrical design
- Choice of materials and methods of construction, and
- The probable range of construction costs.