Before a building design comes to paper, the project needs to be examined from various angles. Phase zero of architectural design is the preliminary stage that forms the basis of a successful design. In this phase, everything from understanding the needs to examining the project context is done.
What is the goal of phase zero?
The main goal of phase zero is to provide the intellectual and analytical infrastructure for design; that is, to answer the question of what, where, with what purpose, and with what limitations should be designed?
Main stages of phase zero
- Problem definition and needs assessment
Accurately understanding the client's requirements
Identifying project goals, expected performance, and legal constraints
Specifying the overall framework and physical program of the project
- Contextual studies and environmental conditions
Examining the characteristics of the project site (location, dimensions, slope, soil type, access)
Evaluating climatic factors such as sunlight, wind direction, rainfall, etc.
Identifying adjacent land uses and environmental impacts
- Economic analysis and financial feasibility study
Initial estimation of design, construction, maintenance, and operation costs
Examining the economic justification of the project and cost-effective implementation methods
- Analysis of similar projects and competitors
Studying successful domestic and international examples
Examining the strengths and weaknesses of existing designs
Gaining inspiration to improve design quality
- Ideation and preparation of initial sketches
Drawing initial designs (sketches) to examine ideas
Identifying spatial and structural opportunities
Preparing to enter phase one
Summary
Phase zero plays the role of the "backbone" of design. In this phase, the architect, with a deep understanding of the project and its conditions, creates a solid foundation for creative, functional, and realistic design.