This involves appearance, safety, whether it is functional or not, and it must be economical. Architects provide professional services to the owner, both public and private, that is planning a construction project. The architect is involved in almost all phases, from the initial idea to the completed structure. .
The architect and owner meet and discuss the reason for the project, financing, requirements, and legal issues of the project. Sometimes the architect provides feasibility studies, site location and requirements for the design. The next step for the architect is to develop a final set of construction plans often called blueprints. These drawings show the appearance, measurements, and all other details about the structure. Along with these drawings are drawings of the structural system, air-conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and in some cases site and landscape plans. The architect also has to follow specific building codes, fire regulations, and zoning laws. .
The architect also helps the owner in obtaining bids, selecting the contractor and preparing the proper contracts. The architect's job is not over when the drawings and specifications are done. He is must visit the construction site periodically to ensure that all the designs are being followed and that the work being done is up to standard. The architect must also make sure that all proper materials are being used in the construction of the building. The architect's job is not over until the building is complete and all costs are paid. After the job is over the architect sometimes advises on energy efficiency, efficiency of the building to fit is specific purpose, and make appropriate changes. The architect has traditionally used pencil and paper to produce the drawings necessary to complete the project but is turning to computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) software more and more.
