Design Process

Schematic Design
This is the initial drawing phase of the design process. Based upon the narrative established in the Program Statement, the architectural/engineering firm prepares a preliminary design of the project for review by the requestor and project manager. This preliminary design will attempt to address the location and size of the spaces, as well as the footprint of the total project. In small projects this phase may be included with the design development phase.

Design Development
The architectural/engineering firm works in this phase with the project manager and the requestor to fine tune the design and incorporate structural and engineered details for the building systems as well as the end user specific systems. Interior design work also begins developing at this stage, which includes the layout of furnishings, built in cabinetry, etc.

Construction Documents
This is the final stage of the design process. Construction documents are the designer's specifications for the contractor that will perform the construction work. These documents are very detailed and technical in nature and involve both drawings and specification manuals.

Design Review
Upon reaching 95% completion of the construction documents, a comprehensive review of design details is provided by all operational support departments internal to the County along with a cost estimate. The purpose of this review is to confirm that the project will be constructed of materials, systems and characteristics which comply with HCFD standards, operating procedures and maintenance requirements, and can be constructed within the approved budget.

Drawings, Revision and Finalization
Drawings are then revised as appropriate from the design review.

Document Preparation
Final construction documents are created in preparation for bidding the work.