The scope and feasibility of both architectural and urban projects is usually established in the conceptual design phase, which is the first step in order to establish the overall vision and goals for a project, as well as potential problems and risks. In this course we will learn the defining importance of a well thought out conceptual design phase, the various approaches that can be taken in order to develop it, how it relates to the entire design and construction process, what is commonly included as part of it and the conceptual design process itself.

The course is mainly aimed at practicing architects, engineers and project managers who look to obtain greater knowledge and insight about conceptual design, as well as architecture and civil engineering students that have preferably completed the first half of their degree coursework. It can also serve as an insightful introduction to conceptual design for people with basic design and construction knowledge.

• Understand and describe how the conceptual design phase of an architectural and urban project is fundamental in establishing there scope and feasibility.
• Understand how the conceptual design phase generates the overall vision and goals for a project.
• Explain the importance of a well thought out conceptual design phase
• Understand how the conceptual design phase relates to the entire design and construction process.
• Explain the various approaches that can be taken in order to develop it.
• Describe the different project phases that exist and the place of conceptual design within them.
• Describe the shared characteristics and differences that the conceptual design process has in architecture and urbanism projects.
• Understand what conceptual design implies and includes.
• Understand how the conceptual design phase must take into account engineering, environmental, commercial and technical standpoints.
• Understand the elements, and the complex relationship between them, that make up the conceptual design process.
• Identify and understand the elements addressed during design concept development.
• Understand the fundamental role and describe the strategic nature of architectural representation and visualization in conceptual design.
• Learn de importance of planning and preparing effective conceptual design reviews with clients and stakeholders.
• Prepare and consider an approach towards possible feedback, adjustment and reassessment phases.

Architectural/urban conceptual design: Scope & feasibility

Part 1 – Overview of the architectural & urban conceptual design phase

• Purpose: Scope & feasibility / Schedule & budget
• A Vision
• Projects and their complexity
• Project Phases
• Conceptual design in architecture and urbanism

Part 2 – What does conceptual design imply and include

• Approaches and extent
• Overall vision and goals
• Architectural programming and project requirements
• Research and Case Studies/Best practices
• Engineering and environmental standpoints
• Commercial and technical standpoints
• Risk and problem identification
• Design concept and architectural representation and visualization
• Scope
• Feasibility

Part 3 – Conceptual design process

• Getting to know your client
• Aligning with the client’s vision
• Establishing an architectural program and main requirements
• Site analysis and context Integration
• Identifying and resolving technical challenges
• Considering parametric budgets
• Design concept development:
  • Aesthetic intent
  • General spatial planning
  • Incorporation of engineering and environmental standpoints
  • Incorporation of sustainability
  • Ensuring positive user experiences
  • Basic regulation compliance
• Architectural representation and visualization

Part 4 – End of stage phase

• Conceptual design delivery
• Conceptual design review with clients and stakeholders
• Feedback, adjustments and reassessments

The course is structured in 4 parts. Each part relies on several types of components or learning resources that will support you to achieve the right level of knowledge for each one of them. The first step of the learning process is to watch the 1 hour lesson video, either in a single view or each one of the 4 parts at a time, as well as revisiting it as needed, followed by the completion of the additional learning resources and activities that are offered for each part to complete the course.

eLearning Completion requirement:
You must view all slides for this activity to be marked as completed. Interactive eLearning modules deliver the technical content of the learning objectives. The delivered content will include examples, top tips, scenarios, and interactive activities.

In order to complete the certification of the course you will be required to take an online quiz that will be considered to determine your final grade for the course.

A short quiz tracks how much of the learning has been absorbed and acts as a progress
indicator.

Completion requirement: The quiz does not require a passing grade, but you must attempt it to have the activity marked as completed.

Discussion forum
The forum is the place for you to engage with your peers and tutors. Tutors will reply within 3 to 5 working days.
For further guidance, please refer to the “Discussion Forum – Guidance and Code of Conduct” that is available on the course page.
This activity has no completion requirement.