ARTICLE

Origin’s 5 Steps for Building Design

Have you ever wondered what the design process for a building looks like? Does it feel overwhelming to take the next step to make your ideas a reality?

At Origin Design, our architects have a simple, five-step design process that helps you know what to expect and better understand the process of a building project, from design through construction. 

Step 1.  

Programming: We identify and quantify the spaces you need and want. Add those up, and you have the total square footage for the project.

Step 2.

Schematic Design: This is when we start laying out spaces. We think broadly and make big moves, honing in on a few concepts to help guide the project.

Step 3.

Design Development: Now it’s time to dig into the details. We’ll go room by room to make sure you get exactly what you need.

Step 4.

Construction Documentation: Time to draw! We take all of your ideas and put them into 2-D drawings so the project can be built.

Step 5.

Construction Administration: This is when we verify that your project is being built correctly. The best part? You get to see your ideas come to life! 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Zach is an Architect in Origin Design’s Dubuque office. He has design experience on several different project types, including municipal, recreational, commercial and industrial facilities. He has a strong knowledge of Revit Architecture, Google SketchUp and Adobe Photoshop, where he has the ability to produce high quality renderings, giving his clients a sneak peek of their project before it’s constructed.

Zach Thielen, AIA, NCARB

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We're #hiring a Land Surveying Technician to join our team! Based out of our Dubuque Office, this individual will spend their time performing survey and related engineering work! Are you looking for a position that is hands on and not your average 9-5? This might be the job for you!

Learn more and apply now!


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#workingontomorrow Check out the completed photos from the John Deere Road Corridor project we recently completed the construction engineering for! The corridor required upgrades to several intersections and driveway accesses to facilitate better flow of traffic at peak times to reduce delays and increase safety. 

Learn more about the project here!

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Brian Balser was recently promoted to AEC Design Technology Manager! Congratulations on this much deserved promotion, Brian! We're lucky to have you on our #origincrew!

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Congratulations are in order!

Gabe Bonn, PLS has achieved his Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license in the State of Iowa! This milestone showcases his dedication and expertise in the field of land surveying.

Additionally, shout-out to Cody Austin, P.E., LEED A.P. for earning his Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of Illinois! This accomplishment reflects his hard work and commitment to continuous improvement.

Join us in celebrating their success as they continue to embrace opportunities to grow every day! We're lucky to have them on our #origincrew!

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Are you looking to spend your summer in the field getting real life surveying experience? Our Land Surveying Internship position may be the perfect fit for you! This internship allows you to assist with boundary surveys, ALTA surveys, land subdivisions and other projects! Based out of our Dubuque office, this internship is for the 2025 summer! Learn more and apply now! 

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Angie Marek is celebrating 5 years at Origin Design! We're so lucky to have you on our #origincrew! Happy Anniversary, Angie!

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As we wrap up Engineers Week, our President & CEO, Pat Ready, reflects on his journey to becoming the engineer he is today! Read more below....

"In high school, I enjoyed drafting class and did well in math and science, which led me to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering at Iowa State University. After my first semester, I decided to shift my focus to civil engineering and the rest, as they say, is history. Now, as I mark my 31st year, I can confidently say that the most rewarding aspect of my career has been making a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether leading our team at Origin Design or collaborating with colleagues, developers, council members, or citizens, I’ve truly enjoyed the journey. Cheers to Engineers Week, to our team at Origin, to all engineers, and a sincere thank you to those who trust us to bring your visions to life!"

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Did you know the majority of our Field Services team double as engineers? At Origin Design, we have a team of certified technicians & engineering designers who provide our clients, colleagues and crews with the information they need to keep their project on track throughout the construction process.

Learn more about our field services team here!

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Whether it's regulatory improvements, aging or undersized infrastructure, expansion of facilities or new construction, our Water Resources engineers listen and deliver unique solutions to our clients. 

Their expertise includes:

  • Floodplain development
  • Geothermal well supply
  • Hydraulics & hydrology
  • Instrumentation & controls
  • Stormwater management
  • Wastewater pumping, collection & treatment
  • Water supply, distribution, storage & treatment

Learn more about our water resources team here.

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Meet our Transportation engineers! They know effective planning, design and construction can make the world of difference on roadways, bridges and trails. Our dedicated civil and structural engineers collaborate with both public and private clients to enhance transportation infrastructure.

Learn more about our transportation engineers here!

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Today, we're spotlighting our team of Structural Engineers! While the structural elements of a building or structure often go unnoticed, our structural engineers play an essential role in ensuring safety, function and sustainability. They work closely with the majority of our other service lines to ensure their designs come to fruition while meeting safety standards.

Learn more about the structural team here!

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We're looking for an experienced Senior Structural Engineer to join our growing team! Are you looking for your next opportunity within the A/E Industry? 

Check out the job posting and apply now!

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