As an architect working in Bangladesh and leading Archiconnect, I’ve seen many people—homeowners, real estate developers, and business owners—start a project without fully understanding what an architect does from start to finish. That’s where this guide comes in.

Yes, architects design buildings—but that’s only part of the job. Our work is actually broken into 7 major architectural services, based on international standards like those used by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Each stage has a reason. Together, they help make better buildings, smart decisions, and safer investments. Whether you’re building a house in Dhaka or developing a commercial space anywhere in Bangladesh, these 7 services create a roadmap to success.

Overview: The 7 Major Architectural Services

Here’s a quick list of the standard architectural services—this is also called the architect's scope of services:

• Pre-Design / Programming
• Schematic Design
• Design Development
• Construction Documentation
• Bidding & Negotiation
• Construction Administration
• Project Closeout / Completion

Let’s walk through each one in simple terms.

Pre-Design / Programming

What is it?

This is where it all begins. Before drawing anything, we ask the important questions:

• What are your needs?
• What is your budget and timeline?
• What kind of land are we building on?
• We do research, site studies, and interviews. We also check local rules and restrictions.

Deliverables may include:

• Project brief (summary of goals and needs)
• Site analysis
• Feasibility studies

This stage is often overlooked but it’s key to preventing problems later. Think of it as the foundation of the foundation.

Schematic Design

What is it?

This is the fun part! I start sketching broad ideas and layouts, including rough floorplans and building shapes. We explore a few concepts before choosing the best one together.

Why it matters:

You get to see how your building might look and function early on, so we can make changes before things get more detailed.

It encourages clear communication between us.

Design Development

What is it?

Now that you’ve chosen a design direction, I’ll refine it with technical precision. We add correct dimensions, identify construction details, and coordinate with engineers—structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical.

We also decide on materials, colors, finishes, and more.

Why it’s critical:

This step prepares your design for construction. Sloppy work here causes expensive mistakes later. Our goal is design clarity and error prevention.

Construction Documentation

What is it?

This is where we create a full, detailed drawing set—what we also call “working drawings.” This is what your contractor will use to actually build the project.

What’s included:

• Detailed floor plans
• Elevations and sections
• Door and window schedules
• Construction notes and specifications
• Compliance with building codes

This stage directly affects construction pricing and quality. Contractors base their quotes and work on these documents, so precision is a must.

Bidding & Negotiation

What is it?

Once your drawings are done, it’s time to pick a builder. I help you gather bids from contractors, compare them, and make sure they understand the project clearly.

I assist with:

• Review of bid proposals
• Clarifying technical questions
• Evaluating price and scope
• Negotiating contract terms

This is especially helpful if you don't have experience in construction—you don’t want surprises later.

Construction Administration

What is it?

Now we’re building! But my job isn’t over. I visit the site regularly to check that everything is being built to plan.

In this stage, I handle:

• Site inspections and reports
• Reviewing shop drawings and materials
• Responding to RFIs (contractor questions)
• Approving invoices / payment applications

This is how we prevent costly mistakes, delays, or poor workmanship.

Project Closeout / Completion

What is it?

When construction is nearly complete, I help wrap up the project.

My tasks during closeout:

• Final walk-throughs and “punch lists” for last fixes
• Help with getting final occupancy certificates
• Submit as-built drawings
• Ensure clean documentation for the client

This step makes sure your building is delivered as promised—and you get peace of mind.

Additional Services Many Architecture Firms Offer

At Archiconnect, besides the 7 phases, we also offer extra services to add more value, depending on your project:

• Site selection and land-use studies
• Interior design & fit-out
• 3D visualization and rendering
• Green building and energy analysis
• Master planning for larger projects
• Legal and permit support
• Post-occupancy check-ups

We provide a full-circle solution from land to lifestyle.

Learn More: Top Architecture Firms in Bangladesh

Why These 7 Services Matter When Hiring an Architect

Each of these seven services adds structure, clarity, and protection to your project. Here's how it helps:

• Avoiding rework and wasted budget
• Making informed design and investment decisions
• Ensuring legal and code compliance
• Managing construction quality and materials
• Keeping timelines and finances on track
• Achieving your original goals

At Archiconnect, this is exactly how we work—with a professional process that builds trust and accountability.

Learn More: How to Choose the Right Architect for Your Project

Conclusion

Building is a big task—but not when you follow a proven process. The seven architectural services guide every stage, helping you go from idea to reality smoothly.

If you’re starting a project in Bangladesh and need expert design, construction guidance, or just some honest advice—Archiconnect is here to help!

FAQs

What are the basic architectural services?

The basic services include the 7 main phases: Pre-Design, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding, Construction Administration, and Project Closeout.

What is a level 7 architect?

“Level 7” typically refers to a qualification level in some international education systems. It may not directly apply to Bangladesh, but it usually means a Master’s-level qualification in Architecture.

What are the 5 main points of architecture?

This may refer to Le Corbusier’s Five Points of a New Architecture:

• Pilotis (columns)
• Free plan
• Free façade
• Horizontal windows
• Roof gardens

What are the 4 architectural models?

This concept often refers to system design, not buildings, but here are four types from IT architecture:

• Business architecture
• Application architecture
• Data architecture
• Technology architecture

In building design, models might refer to:

• Conceptual model
• Working model
• Digital model (3D/BIM)
• Physical scale model