What Is an Architectural Project?

An architectural project is a comprehensive document used to clarify the issues of 'how a structure will look' and 'how it will be built'. An architectural project prepared to eliminate question marks about the project can be transferred to a paper or designed using digital media.

In order for an architectural project to be approved, the plan, section and appearance details must be prepared in accordance with both aesthetic and technical and legal requirements.

As can be understood, an architectural project; It considers not only aesthetic concerns but also the functionality, safety, economic efficiency, environmental impacts and legal compliance of the structure. In this sense, it is very important. As Yükselen Architecture, we will explain the entire process that you need to proceed carefully.

The content of the architectural project:

Floor plans (usage order of each floor)

Facade drawings (external view of the building)

Section drawings (vertical sections showing the internal structure of the structure)

Situation plan (position of the structure within the plot)

Material and measurement information

Details of compliance with regulations must be included.

What are the Stages of an Architectural Project?

The architectural project stages cover the entire process from the design to the construction of a structure. These stages may vary depending on the expectations from the project and the size of the project. However, the approval process generally works as follows:

1. Preliminary Project (Study Project / Concept Project)

This stage is the stage where the first ideas of the project emerge and the basic concept is determined.

• Determination of the Requirement Program: The expectations, needs, budget of the client and the purpose of the project are analyzed in detail.
• Land Analysis: The physical characteristics of the land where the project will be built, environmental factors, legal restrictions (zoning status, elevations, etc.) are examined.
• Initial Sketches and Concept Development: Architects create their first ideas, sketches and general layout plans in line with the data of the land and the requirement program. 3D models or mock-ups can also be used at this stage.
• Preliminary Budget: Initial estimates are made regarding the overall cost of the project.

2. Schematic Design

This is the stage where the concept determined in the preliminary project is further detailed and the basic characteristics of the project become clear.

• Creation of Functional Schemes: Relationships between spaces, circulation areas and functional connections are determined in more detail.
• Dimensioning and Arrangements: Approximate dimensions of spaces, floor heights, façade arrangements and outlines of the structural system are determined.
• Material and Structure Approach: The main materials to be used and the general approach of the carrier system are determined.
• Cost Estimate Update: The cost estimate is updated according to the preliminary project data.
• Institutional Opinions: When necessary, preliminary opinions are obtained from the relevant municipality or other institutions.

3. Pre-Implementation Project

This is the project prepared in order to obtain the necessary legal permits for the construction of the structure. At this stage, the project is brought into compliance with the relevant regulations (zoning regulations, earthquake regulations, etc.).

• Architectural Drawings: All architectural drawings such as floor plans, sections, elevations, roof plans and layout plans are prepared in detail and to scale.
• Space Details: The dimensions of the spaces, site lists and general details are clarified.
• Other Discipline Projects: By coordinating with other engineering disciplines such as construction, electrical, mechanical, and landscaping, these projects are integrated into the architectural project.
• Static Calculations: Static calculations are made by the civil engineer and a static project is created.
• Fire Safety and Energy Identity Certificate: All necessary legal documents and calculations are completed at this stage.
• License Application: All prepared projects and documents are submitted to the relevant municipality for license application.

4. Implementation Project (Detail Project)

After the license project is approved, it is the project that includes all the details of the construction and guides the contractor.

• Detailed Drawings: Detailed drawings, sections and joints of each structural element (doors, windows, stairs, floors, walls, etc.) are prepared.
• Material and Technical Specifications: The type, brand, application method and technical specifications of all materials to be used are determined.
• Specifications: Technical specifications are prepared that specify how the work will be done, the qualities of the materials to be used and the workmanship standards.
• Quantity and Survey: The quantities of materials to be used and the work to be done (quantity) are calculated and the approximate cost (survey) is determined.
• Site Inspection: The implementation project is the basis for the inspections carried out by the architect on site during construction.

5. Post-Implementation Project

This is the project that shows how the structure was actually built after the construction is completed.

Record of the Actual Condition: All changes, revisions and implementation details made during the project are processed in this project.

Maintenance and Operation: It is an important reference source for the future maintenance, operation, renovations or possible additions of the building. All stages must be completed carefully for the healthy progress of the architectural project. Paying due attention to each stage is essential for the success of the project.

Who Prepares the Architectural Project?

The Basic Architectural Project Preparer: Architect

The architect is the person who is the "brain" of the project, creating the design, aesthetics, functionality, spatial organization and general concept of a structure. In order for an architect to prepare a project as an authorized person; he/she must be a graduate of the Faculty of Architecture, be registered with the Chamber of Architects of the Turkish Engineers and Architects and have a Bureau registration certificate.

How long does it take to draw an architectural project?

How long does it take to draw an architectural project will vary depending on many variables such as the size of the area and the expected details. However, if an average time is given, the entire architectural project processes (from concept to permit stage) of a simple single residence (villa or detached house) can generally vary between 1 and 3 months. For larger or more complex buildings, this period can start from 6 months and extend to several years. These periods only cover the drawing and projecting stages; the construction process itself is a separate time period.

What is an Architectural Project Approval and Preliminary Approval Certificate?

Architectural Project Preliminary Approval Certificate (Preliminary Review/Preliminary Acceptance)

Architectural project preliminary approval certificate is a document indicating that the basic lines of the project and its compliance with the zoning legislation have been preliminarily checked by the relevant units of the municipality before the license application of a project and that it has been deemed positive in terms of compliance with the license process.

Architectural Project Approval Certificate (License Project Approval)

Architectural project approval certificate is commonly known as "construction permit" among the public and is an official permit document that must be obtained from the relevant municipality or governorship in order to start the construction of a structure. This document shows that the project meets all legal and technical requirements.

What to Do After the Architectural Project is Approved?

The construction process begins after the architectural project approval is completed. This process, which starts with the license application, covers the process up to the delivery and usage phase. You can access all the details about the building permit in our article titled 'What is a Building Permit?'.