What is a Concept Design Project?
A concept design project represents the first and most important step in the process of designing a house, residential building, business building, or industrial facility. Its purpose is to show the investor and relevant institutions the basic architectural idea of the future object, its appearance, functionality, position on the plot, and basic technical solutions.
Before starting the creation of the main design project and obtaining a building permit, it’s necessary to create a quality concept design project that defines all key characteristics of the future building.
Why is a Concept Design Project Important?
Many investors consider a concept design project to be just a formality. However, it’s precisely in this phase that the most important decisions are made, which affect:
- the appearance of the object,
- the layout of the rooms,
- energy efficiency,
- construction costs,
- the possibility of obtaining urban planning approval,
- the future functionality of the object.
A well-created concept design project can significantly reduce later changes and additional costs during construction.
What Does a Concept Design Project Include?
The content of a concept design project depends on the type of object and the requirements of the relevant institutions, but most often includes:
Situation Plan
Shows the position of the object on the building plot, access roads, distances from neighboring plots, and existing infrastructure.
Floor Plans
Graphical representation of all rooms with their dimensions and purpose.
Cross-Sections of the Object
Show the vertical relationships and construction of the building.
Facades
Visual representation of the external appearance of the object from all sides.
Technical Description
A document that detailedly explains the architectural and technical solutions.
Areas and Quadratures
Overview of the useful and gross areas of the object.
When is a Concept Design Project Needed?
A concept design project is most often created for:
- family houses,
- weekend houses,
- residential buildings,
- business buildings,
- production halls,
- tourist facilities,
- reconstruction of existing buildings,
- extensions and superstructures.
In most municipalities and cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a concept design project is necessary for obtaining urban planning approval or location information.
Difference Between Concept and Main Design Project
Many investors are not aware of the difference between these two documents.
| Concept Design Project | Main Design Project |
|---|---|
| Defines the concept of the object | Contains detailed technical solutions |
| Used for urban planning approval | Used for building permit |
| Lower level of detail | High level of technical development |
| Faster creation | Requires more time and experts |
A concept design project represents the basis for creating the main design project.
How Long Does it Take to Create a Concept Design Project?
The creation time depends on the complexity of the object.
Average deadlines are:
- Family house: 7-15 days
- Weekend house: 5-10 days
- Business building: 15-30 days
- Larger residential buildings: 30 and more days
Timely delivery of the necessary documentation can significantly accelerate the design process.
How Much Does a Concept Design Project Cost?
The cost of a concept design project depends on:
- the area of the object,
- the purpose of the object,
- the complexity of the architecture,
- the location of the construction,
- the investor’s requirements.
Most often, the price is formed according to the square footage or according to the scope of design services.
To get a precise offer, it’s necessary to provide basic information about the plot and the planned object.
Advantages of Professional Creation of a Concept Design Project
By hiring a professional design team, you get:
- optimal use of space
- compliance with urban planning conditions
- quality technical solutions
- realistic investment estimate
- lower risk of subsequent changes
- faster obtaining of necessary permits
What Does the Process of Creating a Concept Design Project Look Like?
1. Analysis of the Plot
Overview of urban planning conditions, access roads, and construction possibilities.
2. Conversation with the Investor
Definition of wishes, needs, and budget.
3. Creation of a Conceptual Solution
First sketches and proposals for the layout.
4. Corrections and Coordination
Alignment of the project with the investor’s requirements.
5. Creation of Final Documentation
Preparation of complete documentation for further procedures.
Most Common Mistakes When Creating a Concept Design Project
- Insufficient analysis of the plot.
- Lack of compliance with the urban planning plan.
- Poor orientation of the object.
- Inefficient layout of the rooms.
- Underestimation of future needs of the family or business.
Avoiding these mistakes can save significant resources during construction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I build only based on a concept design project?
No. For the start of construction, a main design project and a building permit are usually required.
Can a concept design project be changed?
Yes, until it’s confirmed by the investor. A concept design project is a phase in which changes are easiest and cheapest to make.
Is a geodetic survey necessary?
In most cases, yes, because it enables precise positioning of the object on the plot.
Does a concept design project affect the construction cost?
Yes. A quality project allows for more rational use of materials and lower construction costs.
Conclusion
A concept design project is not just an administrative document, but the foundation of every successful construction. Through quality planning, proper organization of space, and compliance with urban planning conditions, the investor gets a clear picture of the future object and a solid basis for the next phases of design and construction.
If you’re planning to build a house, a business building, or reconstruct an existing building, a professionally created concept design project represents the best investment at the beginning of the process.
If you need a CONCEPT or MAIN design project, feel free to contact us.