Which phase focuses on refining designs and detailing specifications?

The design development phase is critical in the architectural process as it emphasizes refining designs and detailing specifications. During this phase, the preliminary concepts established during the schematic design stage are further developed and clarified. It involves specifying the materials, systems, and finishes that will be used in the project.

This is the stage where architects collaborate with various stakeholders, including engineers and consultants, to ensure that the design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, compliant with regulations, and within budget. By solidifying these details, the design development phase lays a foundation for the next stage, which prepares comprehensive drawings and documents needed for construction.

In contrast, schematic design primarily focuses on conceptualizing the project and establishing relationships between spaces rather than refining details. Construction documentation comes next and is about producing the detailed drawings required for construction, while post-occupancy evaluations happen after the building is completed and occupied, assessing how well the design meets the users' needs and performance parameters.