Building Design

---

Building design refers to the broadly based architectural, engineering and technical applications to the design of buildings. All building projects require the services of a building designer, typically a licensed architect.

Smaller, less complicated projects often do not require a licensed professional, and the design of such projects is often undertaken by building designers, draftspersons, interior designers (for interior fit-outs or renovations), or contractors. Larger, more complex building projects require the services of many professionals trained in specialist disciplines, usually coordinated by an architect.

Building Structure

---

This is the exciting stage of actually constructing the new building. The plans for the building would have been drawn up by an architect with the help of planners and engineers and approved by various authorities. The contractors will have been selected and work is underway. The work involves many machines including cranes, concrete mixers and pumps, excavator and trucks, and also scaffolding.

Construction:
The construction team will excavate the site; create the foundation of the building; erect the support framework (skeleton, also called the superstructure) around which the building will be built (usually reinforced concrete and/or steel sections); build the structure, one floor at a time (out of brick or other materials) and install pipes and cables for plumbing and electrical services and IT networks.

Finishing:
Finishing refers to the non-structural elements that are applied to the exterior and interior of the building. It involves covering the brick or concrete of the building with a finish such as plaster, painting the walls, installing any external cladding and windows, installing internal walls (sound-proof insulated panels), adding electrical outlets, installing plumbing fixtures (toilets and sinks) and laying down the flooring (tiles or carpets). Once the building is finished, and all the safety checks are passed, the tenants can start using the building.