Detailed design & construction documents: precision-driven architectural documentation

After refining the schematic design based on feedback from engineering consultants, we create detailed construction drawings and specifications. This step involves collaborating with clients to finalize materials, finishes, and fixtures, guiding builders effectively. This phase ensures adherence to building codes, material specifications, and sustainability targets, while maintaining the original design vision.

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Close-up of a window with a hexagonal perforated screen at Bumble Bee Academy, an early learning centre designed by Poiesis Architecture. The design balances light, visibility, and safety.

Bumble Bee Academy, an early learning centre designed by Poiesis Architecture.

Photography by Scott Norsworthy.

Detailed design

With schematic design approved and engineering coordinated, we finalize materials, fixtures, and systems—ensuring alignment with the project vision, performance goals, and budget.

Architectural material & finish selection

  • Building Components Finalization: Selecting all building components, including exterior materials, interior finishes, and fixture specifications for high-performance durability and aesthetics.

Interior detailing (as applicable)

  • Layout and Specification: Detailing elements such as kitchen and bathroom fixtures, flooring, lighting, and millwork, integrated with engineering systems.

Site & landscape integration

  • Outdoor Space Coordination: Designing porches, patios, and entryways with a focus on durable materials and native landscaping.

Engineering coordination

  • System Integration: Aligning structure, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems with architectural design to ensure elegant built forms, optimize energy efficiency, minimize complexity, and prevent costly modifications.

Passive house strategies

  • Energy Efficiency Enhancements: Implementing airtight construction, superior insulation, and thermal bridge-free detailing to boost energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

  • Performance Standards: Rigorously evaluating material selections such as windows, doors, and skylights, as well as HVAC systems, home appliances, and fixtures to ensure they align with the design vision and provide durability with low maintenance.

Client review & approvals

  • Presentation of Selections: Presenting refined selections and layouts to ensure alignment with client expectations before progressing to full construction documentation.

A fully coordinated architectural and engineering set, ready for permits and pricing—ensuring technical precision, compliance, and design integrity.

Construction documents

Comprehensive architectural drawings

  • Detailed Documentation: Creating plans, elevations, sections, and construction details with thorough coordination of materials and systems.

  • Subconsultant Coordination: Integrating documents from team subconsultants for seamless permit and construction processes.

Material & finish specifications

  • Quality Assurance: Documenting all chosen finishes to guarantee quality and longevity.

  • Fixture and Finish Schedules: Providing a complete list of fixtures, appliances, doors, windows, and both interior and exterior finishes.

Structural & mechanical coordination

  • Engineering Integration: Aligning HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and structural systems with architectural plans to facilitate efficient construction.

Building code & regulatory compliance

  • Standards Adherence: Ensuring all plans comply with the Ontario Building Code and other regulatory requirements, incorporating Passive House standards where applicable.

Construction tender packages

  • Bid Document Preparation: Crafting bid documents for contractor selection and detailed cost estimation.

  • Contractor Coordination:

    • Single Contractor: Included in standard fees if the contractor has been involved since the schematic design.

    • Multiple Bids: Additional coordination and bid package preparation, incurring extra costs.

Frequently asked questions

  • Detailed drawings reduce misinterpretation, prevent costly construction errors, and streamline permit approvals, ensuring the project runs smoothly from start to finish.

    • Standard Construction Drawings: 2–8 months, depending on project complexity.

    • For multiple bid packages: 3–9 months, depending on scope and coordination requirements.

  • Our fees are determined based on Royal Architectural Institute of Canada guidelines.

    • Detail Design Fees – Typically calculated as a percentage of construction costs, determined at the conclusion of schematic design.

    • Enhanced Detail Design Services – Fixed fees based on complexity and scope (e.g., detailed interior coordination, custom millwork, etc.).

    • Construction Documentation Fees – Based on projected construction costs, established at the end of schematic design.

  • Yes, we work with contractors during this phase to refine costs based on finalized material choices and layouts.

  • If changes are necessary after this phase, they can lead to revisions across multiple consultant drawings, which may affect both costs and project timelines. Additionally, such changes might require obtaining updated approvals from the building department. To minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth process, we strongly recommend finalizing all major decisions before proceeding with permit applications.

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