Brener manages the creative process in the field of architectural design, bringing together a building’s requirements, functionality and aesthetics; giving the structure its identity and ensuring its harmony with its surroundings. This process aims to transform abstract ideas into liveable and tangible spaces, within legal constraints, budget and engineering requirements. The stages of this transformation process are as follows.

The Main Stages of the Architectural Design Process

1. Preparation and Concept Development Stage (Idea)

This stage is the starting point where the foundations of the project are laid and the main idea is determined.

• Requirements Analysis (Briefing): All expectations and constraints, such as the purpose of the structure, user profile, functional requirements, budget and schedule, are clarified through discussions with the client.
• Land/Site Analysis:
  
  • The legal status (planning status, plan notes, restrictions) is checked.
  • Physical data (topography, solar exposure, wind direction, surrounding structures, transport) is analysed.
  • Ground investigation reports are examined.
• Concept Development: In light of all the data obtained, the project’s main concept, identity, design language and spatial atmosphere are determined. This is usually concretised through sketches and mood boards.

2. Preliminary Design Phase (Preliminary Project)

This is the stage at which the concept is first expressed through technical drawings.

• Schematic Design: Different spatial organisation alternatives are explored. Mass studies, rough layouts, main circulation schemes and inter-space relationships are resolved.
• Preliminary Design (Pre-Design): The selected scheme is translated into scaled drawings (Floor Plans, Sections, Elevations). At this stage, basic measurements and rough material decisions are made.
• Initial Cost Estimate: An approximate cost estimate (summary of findings) is prepared based on the preliminary project and budget control is ensured.
• Initial Approvals: The preliminary project is prepared for the employer’s approval and, if deemed necessary, for preliminary official applications.

3. Final Project Phase (Coordination)

This is the stage at which the preliminary design is finalised and integrated with other disciplines.

• Architectural Finalisation: All units included in the preliminary design are finalised with precise measurements and technical details. The exact locations and dimensions of architectural elements such as doors, windows and staircases are determined.
• Engineering Coordination:
  
  • Static: The placement and calculation of structural system elements (columns, beams, walls) in the most appropriate manner according to architectural plans.
  • Mechanical: Integration of heating, ventilation and plumbing systems without compromising the architectural plan.
  • Electrical: Determining the placement of lighting, sockets, and low-voltage systems.
• Material Decisions: The nature and quality of the main materials to be used in the structure (facade cladding, roof, floor, walls) are definitively selected.
• Updating the Estimated Cost: The project cost is calculated more accurately based on finalised material and engineering details.

4. Implementation Project Phase (Licensing and Construction Details)

This is the most detailed stage of the project, where it is prepared for manufacturing on site.

• Preparation of Application Projects: Fully dimensioned and standard-compliant drawings (1/50, 1/100 scale) containing all the details necessary for the construction of the structure.
• Detailed Drawings: Critical and complex manufacturing points (facade joints, wet areas, special ceiling details, etc.) are explained using large-scale drawings (1/20, 1/5).
• Technical Specifications: The brand, model and application standards for each material to be used (paint, plaster, coating, insulation, etc.) shall be specified in writing.
• Licence Project Preparation: All drawings are prepared in the format required by the relevant local authorities (Municipality/Provincial Directorate of Environment and Urbanisation) and made ready for the Building Licence application.

5. Construction and Control Phase

This is the final stage where the project comes to life in the field.

This process brings together both the artistic and technical aspects of architectural design, marking the stage at which a building is successfully completed.

For further information and to speak directly with our experts, please contact us. Tel: 0216 486 00 00 E-Mail: info@brener.com.tr