Design Considerations
House specifications including all the instructions necessary to start building the house from floorplan to construction techniques are conveyed to the contractors via blueprints. Plans should include all the necessary details. The more details the less things are left to interpretation by the different sub-contractors. Design plans should include the following:

1. Front elevation
2. Left and right elevations
3. Rear elevation
4. Floorplan for all the floors
5. Roofing plan
6. Foundation plan
7. Interior elevation
8. Framing details
9. Electrical layout
10. Plumbing diagram
11. Special instructions
12. Wall wall cross section
13. Set of specifications to include instructions for the subs
14. General construction specifications and requirements

If you were to work with an architect, he/she and you will work together to arrive at the general conception of the finished house. An architect will first do a schematic design based on your discussions with him about the style, type and size of house you want. During the schematic design phase he will sketch the house profile and some components for you to review and make changes. He will also consider the lot size, topography, orientation, climate and configuration. Next, the architect will move to design development phase. You will need to come up with more details including finishes, exterior materials, roof style, electrical and other features. Cost estimate will evolve from this phase. If it is approved, the architect will move to create the construction documents to start building the house. The construction document will include detailed plans along with special instructions and specifications. In addition, an architect may for a fee manage the building project from bidding to the final construction.