During which stage are structural systems determined in architectural design?

The correct phase for determining structural systems in architectural design is during the design development stage. This stage follows the schematic design, where initial concepts and layouts are created, including basic forms and spatial relationships. In the design development phase, these concepts are refined, and the details of the materials, structural systems, and construction methods are established.

During design development, architects collaborate with structural engineers to select appropriate systems that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements, ensuring that the design is feasible and compliant with building codes. This is crucial as it lays the groundwork for the construction documentation, where detailed drawings and specifications will be prepared.

The other stages do not focus on structural systems as critically. Schematic design is primarily about exploring concepts and layouts without getting into detailed systems. Construction documentation is where the design is finalized and documented for construction, but the selection of structural systems should already be made prior to this stage. Post-occupancy evaluation occurs after a building is completed and occupied, focusing on assessing how well the design meets user needs rather than on the decisions related to structural systems.