19_015 Checklist for creating construction design documents

1. Research and planning for the design phase

  • Define project scope, goals, and objectives.
  • Conduct site analysis to understand site conditions, topography, climate, and surroundings.
  • Gather client requirements and preferences.
  • Research local building codes, regulations, and zoning restrictions.
  • Identify any special considerations such as sustainability goals or historic preservation requirements.
  • Develop a project timeline and budget.

1.1. List of contacts

  • Compile a comprehensive list of contacts, including clients, stakeholders, design team members, regulatory authorities, consultants, and contractors.

1.2. General site conditions

  • Conduct a thorough analysis of the site’s existing conditions, including topography, vegetation, soil quality, and accessibility.
  • Identify any constraints or opportunities presented by the site’s features.

1.3. Storm drainage

  • Research and assess the existing stormwater drainage patterns and infrastructure on and around the site.
  • Determine if there are any flood zones or potential drainage issues that need to be addressed in the design.

1.4. Sanitary sewage

  • Investigate the site’s connection to existing sanitary sewage systems and determine the capacity and limitations of these systems.
  • Ensure compliance with local sewage regulations and consider any need for on-site sewage treatment.

1.5. Electric lines

  • Identify the location and proximity of electric lines to the site.
  • Coordinate with utility providers to understand potential impacts on the design and construction process.

1.6. Public transportation authority:

  • Collaborate with local transportation authorities to understand nearby transit options and potential impacts on the project.
  • Incorporate transportation considerations into the site layout and design.

1.7. Geotechnical data

  • Gather geotechnical data through soil testing and analysis to understand soil composition, bearing capacity, and any potential ground movement risks.
  • Use this data to inform foundation design and structural considerations.

2. Master planning phase

  • Develop a comprehensive site plan showing the building layout, circulation, landscaping, and infrastructure.
  • Consider space allocation, building orientation, and overall site organization.
  • Explore different design concepts and alternatives.

2.1. Natural factors

  • Consider natural elements such as sunlight, wind patterns, views, and natural features that can influence site organization and building orientation.
  • Incorporate sustainable design principles to harness these factors for energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

2.2. Boundary and topographical survey

  • Obtain an accurate boundary survey to define property lines and easements.
  • Conduct a topographical survey to understand site contours, slopes, and existing elevations.

2.3. Site grading and drainage

  • Develop a site grading plan considering proper water drainage, minimizing erosion, and preventing flooding.
  • Design swales, retention ponds, or other drainage features as needed.

2.4. Vehicular circulation

  • Plan efficient vehicular pathways and road layouts within the site.
  • Consider traffic flow, entry/exit points, and vehicle access to various facilities.

2.5. Parking and parking decks

  • Determine parking requirements based on local regulations and project needs.
  • Design parking areas that are easily accessible, well-lit, and safe for users.

2.6. Service areas

  • Identify locations for service areas, such as loading docks, utility access points, and waste disposal facilities.
  • Ensure these areas are discreetly integrated into the overall site design.

2.7. Street widths

  • Determine appropriate street widths based on traffic volume, parking needs, and pedestrian safety.
  • Comply with local road standards and regulations.

2.8. Pedestrian circulation

  • Plan safe and efficient pathways for pedestrians, considering walkways, sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian amenities.
  • Promote walkability and connectivity throughout the site.

2.9. Easements

  • Identify and preserve any required or existing easements for utilities, access, or other purposes.
  • Ensure that the site plan respects these easements.

2.10. Utilities

  • Coordinate with utility providers to plan the routing of water, sewer, gas, and electrical lines.
  • Design utility layouts that minimize conflicts and disruptions during construction.

2.11. Fences and walls

  • Determine the need for fences or walls to provide privacy, security, or aesthetic enhancement.
  • Integrate these structures harmoniously into the site design.

2.12. Exterior lighting

  • Develop a lighting plan for safety, security, and ambience.
  • Consider energy-efficient lighting fixtures and their placement to minimize light pollution.

2.13. Signage

  • Design signage elements for wayfinding, branding, and information dissemination.
  • Ensure signage placement conforms to local regulations and enhances user experience.

3. Schematic design phase

  • Translate the chosen concept into preliminary sketches and drawings.
  • Develop floor plans, elevations, and initial site plans.
  • Begin to define the building’s form, massing, and overall aesthetics.
  • Discuss initial materials, colours, and finishes.

4. Design development phase

  • Refine and further develop the design based on feedback from the client and stakeholders.
  • Develop detailed floor plans, sections, and elevations.
  • Incorporate structural, mechanical, and electrical systems into the design.
  • Begin to specify major building systems and components.

4.1. Building construction and safety requirements

  • Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and safety standards specific to the project’s location and type.
  • Incorporate fire and life safety measures, including exits, fire-rated materials, and emergency systems.

4.2. Electrical

  • Develop detailed electrical plans showing outlets, fixtures, switches, and circuits.
  • Design lighting layouts for both interior and exterior spaces.
  • Ensure adequate electrical capacity for the building’s intended use.

4.3. Water supply

  • Plan the water supply system, including water source, distribution pipes, and storage facilities.
  • Address water pressure, flow rates, and backflow prevention measures.

4.4. Plumbing

  • Design the plumbing system, including sanitary waste disposal and venting.
  • Specify plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, showers, and other water-related appliances.

4.5. Sprinklers

  • If required, design a fire sprinkler system to protect the building from fire hazards.
  • Determine the appropriate locations for sprinkler heads and coordinate with architectural and structural elements.

4.6. Fuels

  • Plan the distribution of fuels, such as natural gas or oil, to relevant equipment and appliances.
  • Ensure safety measures are in place to prevent leaks or hazards.

4.7. Telephone

  • Design telephone and communication systems to accommodate the building’s needs.
  • Include wiring, outlets, and connections for phones and other communication devices.

5. Construction documentation

  • Prepare detailed, dimensioned, and annotated drawings for all aspects of the project.
  • Develop architectural plans, sections, elevations, and details.
  • Include structural drawings, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) plans, and other relevant documents.
  • Ensure drawings are coordinated and aligned with each other.
  • Create a specifications document outlining materials, finishes, and construction methods.

6. Bidding documents

  • Assemble a comprehensive bid package that includes drawings and specifications.
  • Clearly define the scope of work, project requirements, and expectations for contractors.
  • Include any addenda or clarifications based on client feedback.
  • Set a bid submission deadline and method.

7. Contract documents

  • Finalize the drawings and specifications based on feedback from the bidding phase.
  • Address any issues or conflicts that arose during bidding.
  • Include a construction schedule, payment terms, and other contract-related information.
  • Ensure legal and regulatory compliance.

8. Bidding and negotiations

  • Distribute bid packages to potential contractors and respond to their questions.
  • Conduct pre-bid meetings to clarify project details and requirements.
  • Evaluate bids and select the most suitable contractor.
  • Negotiate contract terms, pricing, and any necessary adjustments.

9. Construction administration

  • Hold a pre-construction meeting with the chosen contractor to discuss project logistics.
  • Review and approve shop drawings and submittals from the contractor.
  • Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and quality of work.
  • Address any issues or changes that arise during construction.
  • Manage communication between the design team, contractor, and client.
  • Review and approve payment requests from the contractor.
  • Conduct a final inspection and ensure all punch list items are addressed.
  • Verify completion and issue a certificate of substantial completion.