Our Design Process
Integrating the Whole by Understanding the Parts
Every project is made up of many interconnected parts—structure, systems, materials, and space. Tooch Design approaches each project by understanding these elements individually and how they work together as a whole, reducing conflicts, improve buildability, and give homeowners confidence that their project is thoughtfully and clearly designed.
Phase 1: Pre-Design (Existing Conditions & Systems Understanding)
Purpose:
Establish an accurate understanding of the site, structure, and existing systems before design begins.What We Do:
- Identify project goals, priorities, and constraints
- Document existing conditions and as-built information as needed
- Review existing architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing conditions
Deliverables:
- Project goals and scope summary
- Existing conditions and as-built documentation (as applicable)
- Initial understanding of structural and building systems constraints
Phase 2: Schematic Design (SD) – Whole Concept, Part Awareness
Purpose:
Develop the overall design concept while understanding how individual systems fit within it.What We Do:
- Explore layout, scale, and spatial organization
- Study how structure and basic building systems integrate with the design
- Use early drawings and visualization to test relationships between space, structure, and systems
Deliverables:
- Schematic floor plans and diagrams
- Preliminary massing and layout studies
- Conceptual visualization illustrating overall design intent
Phase 3: Design Development (DD) – ASMEP Integration
Purpose:
Refine the design by coordinating architectural elements with structural and building systems.What We Do:
- Develop materials, assemblies, and key details
- Coordinate architectural design with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements
- Refine visualization to reflect build-ready relationships between all components
Deliverables:
- Refined plans, sections, and elevations
- Coordinated design decisions reflecting ASMEP integration
- Updated visualization and models showing how parts work together
Phase 4: Construction Documents (CD) – Coordinated Whole
Purpose:
Produce clear, coordinated drawings that communicate how all parts come together in construction.What We Do:
- Translate the integrated design into detailed, permit-ready documentation
- Coordinate dimensions, systems, and details across disciplines
- Ensure architectural intent aligns with structural and building systems
Deliverables:
- Permit-ready construction documents
- Coordinated architectural drawings reflecting ASMEP systems
- Clear documentation suitable for pricing, permitting, and construction
Phase 5: Construction Support (CA) – Maintaining Alignment
Purpose:
Support the project as it is built, ensuring the coordinated design is understood and followed.What We Do:
- Respond to design and coordination questions
- Clarify relationships between architectural elements and building systems
- Help maintain alignment between design intent and constructed reality
Deliverables:
- Design clarifications and coordination support
- Ongoing assistance to help the project stay aligned with the integrated design
