How Involved Is the Architect in the Construction of Their Building?

When you think of the role of an architect in construction, you may picture them designing your building and then moving on. However, architects are more involved in the construction process than you think. 

An architect performs many duties throughout the construction of your building, from the initial sketches to the final product. We've created this guide to explain how architects are involved after giving their plans to the construction crew.

Architect's Involvement in Commercial Projects

Similar to contractors, architectural firms will often use contracts when working. While their specific duties may change, some tasks an architect typically performs include:

• Handling submittals: Submittals are the drawings and other instructions for the building project. The architect will review these documents and perform any action required by the contract or refer the work to an engineer on the job site.
• Completing inspections: Architects will often visit the job site to ensure the work is satisfactory. If any issues arise during construction, an architect will work with the construction crew to resolve them.
• Addressing requests for information (RFIs): An RFI occurs when there is missing information in the construction documents. If needed, the architect will change order requests to fit the needs of the site.
• Performing management tasks: Architects may hold progress meetings, file reports and manage other duties. During construction, an architect will also review progress payments to ensure the construction crew uses the correct materials. 

Architect's Role in Residential Projects

Smaller, single-family homes often require less involvement from an architect. Some architects will sell the home plans to a builder and start a new project. If an issue arises or the family wishes to change the design of their home, the architect will return to alter their construction plans. 
 

Architect's Involvement as Part of a Design-Build Firm

At design-build firms, such as Designblendz, the architect is more involved during the building process. We are a full-service design-build company with a blended team ranging from architects to construction managers. Our entire operation is under one roof, enabling greater communication between the architects and other builders.

We can also contract out our architectural services. In these instances, our capable team of Designblendz architects will remain involved in your project and perform services concerning inspections, submittals and RFIs.

Contact Designblendz for Architectural Services 

If you'd like an architect for a building project, contact Designblendz today. All of our services are under one roof to streamline the designing and building process. Contact us online or call 215-515-4501 to get started on your building's design today.