The project begins with a precise definition of its programme, objectives and development parameters. The brief establishes the required functions, spatial requirements, quality standards, priorities and principal constraints. Available information on the site, its planning context and the intended development is reviewed to define the initial scope of architectural services, required disciplines and key project parameters.

The agreed brief forms the basis for a commercial proposal setting out the scope of services, deliverables, project programme and professional fees. Once the terms are approved, the architectural services agreement is formalised by contract. The agreed scope defines the responsibilities of the project team and provides the contractual framework for the subsequent stages.

The site and its wider context are examined in detail before the principal design decisions are established. Depending on the project, this may include topographical and geotechnical information, existing utilities and infrastructure, transport and pedestrian connections, existing buildings, landscape, heritage and environmental conditions, as well as planning and development constraints. For large or phased developments, the analysis extends across the wider territory and its existing and potential connections. The findings establish the factual basis for the concept and identify conditions requiring further investigation as the design develops.

The concept defines the spatial and architectural structure of the project. At building scale, this includes the organisation of functions, massing, circulation, principal architectural elements and relationship to the site. For larger developments, it also establishes the distribution of uses, building groups, public spaces, access routes and the logic of development phases. The concept is tested against the programme, site conditions, planning requirements and preliminary cost considerations before the principal design decisions are approved.

The approved concept is developed into a coordinated architectural proposal. Plans, sections and elevations are developed alongside structural and engineering principles, while façades, materials, landscape, public realm and other key design components are defined to the required level. On complex projects, several buildings, disciplines or development phases may be coordinated within a single design framework. Changes to the brief, programme or cost parameters are reviewed as the design develops, with their implications resolved before the project proceeds to detailed technical documentation.

The developed design is prepared for the approvals required by the relevant jurisdiction and project type. Depending on the location, this may include planning and urban design approvals, building regulations, environmental or heritage procedures and other statutory submissions. The required documentation, approval route and timing vary by country, authority and procurement strategy. Where permitted by the applicable procedure, individual approvals may proceed in parallel with design development or technical design.

The design is developed into coordinated technical information required for construction and procurement. Architectural, structural, engineering and specialist information is integrated with drawings, specifications, schedules, details and material requirements. The composition and level of documentation depend on the project type, jurisdiction, procurement route and construction strategy. Where required by the procurement route, the documentation can also provide the basis for contractor pricing, tendering or negotiated procurement.

During construction, the architectural design is carried through to the completed building within the agreed construction-phase scope. Where architectural site supervision is included, this may involve site inspections, review of contractor submissions and samples, responses to technical queries, clarification of design information and review of proposed changes affecting the architectural design. The extent and frequency of site involvement are defined by the architectural services agreement and applicable local practice. On large or phased developments, construction may proceed simultaneously across different buildings, packages or phases.

The completed project is prepared for handover and operation. Depending on the agreed scope, the final stage may include review of completion documentation, coordination of outstanding items, handover information, commissioning-related design matters and post-completion architectural support. Where the project includes further phases, extensions or changes in use, information from the completed stage can inform subsequent development.