Architectural Project Feasibility

What is a project?

A project is a set of tasks that must be completed within a defined timeline to

accomplish a specific set of goals. These tasks are completed by a group of people
known as the project team, which is led by a project manager, who oversees the
planning, scheduling, tracking and successful completion of projects.

Besides the project team, projects require resources such as labor, materials and equipment.
Organizations and individuals manage projects with a wide range of objectives. These can take many
forms, from constructing a building to planning an event and even completing a certain duty. Retailers,
for example, may pursue projects that improve the way they track order fulfillment. Construction teams
complete projects any time they plan and build something—and so on!

What Are the Characteristics of a Project?

There are certain features or characteristics that are unique to projects and differentiate them from the
daily operations or other types of activities of an organization. Here are the main characteristics of a
project.

1. Any Project Needs a Project Manager and a Project Team

One of the most important characteristics of a project is that it’s a team effort. While the structure of
project teams might change from one organization to another, projects usually involve a project
manager and a team of individuals with the necessary skills to execute the tasks that are needed to be
accomplished in a project.

2. Every Project Needs a Project Plan

Project team members need clear directions from the project manager and other project leaders so that
they can execute the work that’s expected from them. These directions come in the form of a project
plan. However, a project plan is more than just a set of instructions for the project team. It’s a
comprehensive document that describes every aspect of a project, such as the project goals, project
schedule and project budget among other important details.

3. All Projects Go Through the Same Project Lifecycle

The project life cycle refers to the five phases all projects must progress through, from start to finish.
The five phases of a project lifecycle serve as the most basic outline that gives a project definition. These
five phases are initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and closure.

4. All Projects Share the Same Project Constraints

All projects no matter their size or complexity are subject to three main constraints: time, scope and
cost. This simply means that projects must be completed within a defined timeline, achieve a defined set

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of tasks and goals and be delivered under a certain budget. These project constraints are known as the
triple constraint or the project management triangle and are one of the most important project features
to know about.

5. Every Project Needs Resources

A resource is anything necessary to complete a project. Such as: labor, raw materials, machinery and
equipment. For example, in a construction project, materials are an essential resource. That said, other
resources — like time, labor and equipment — are just as important. A project manager must be able to
identify all of the project resources in order to create a resource plan and manage the resources
accordingly. When resources are left unaccounted for, it is easy to mismanage them.

Types of Projects

Types of Projects by Funding Source

One simple way to categorize projects is to look at their source of capital.

 Private projects: Projects that are financed by businesses or private organizations.

 Public projects: Projects which are funded by Government agencies.
 Mixed projects: Projects that are financed by a public-private partnership.

Types of Projects by Industry

Projects can be executed by large or small organizations from any industry. However, some industries
are more project-intensive than others. Here are some of the most common types of projects by
industry.

 Construction projects: The main goal of any construction project is to make a building
that can be used for different purposes such as infrastructure, residential or commercial
use.
 Manufacturing projects: Manufacturing projects consist of manufacturing physical
products to generate profits for a company.
 IT projects: Information technology projects consist in establishing an IT framework for
the processing of data at a company-wide scale.
 Software development projects: The main goal of a software development project is to
create a software product for a client.
 Business projects: The term business project could refer to creating a new business,
creating a new business unit for an existing company or simply launching a new business
initiative.

There are many different types of construction projects, and each adds a lot of value to our
society. Construction projects allow you to use highways and roads to drive and stores to shop at.

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 It is essential to understand the various types of construction projects. Understanding the nature
of construction projects will allow you to appreciate the many benefits a project manager can
bring to your community.

Construction is an approach to building or assembling infrastructure in civil engineering and

architecture. Construction involves the use of a detailed plan and design, as well as the assembly
of different materials and elements to create a structure. These projects are usually managed by a
project manager and overseen by a construction engineer, project architect, or construction
manager.

Main types of construction

 Construction infrastructure projects: Building a bridge, a road, a mass transportation

system or a water treatment facility.
 Residential construction projects
 Commercial construction projects: Building a shopping mall, a parking lot or a hotel.
 Institutional
 Industrial

1) Infrastructure construction is essential for the survival of our world. Highway

construction is the most common type of infrastructure project you will encounter. You
have likely encountered road construction at one time or another in your lifetime.
Infrastructure construction is also called civil construction.

If you drive past roadwork, you will likely pass one of the many construction projects. These
highways are built and maintained by the construction manager. It is possible to expand the road
or add lanes if the area grows in population. Another important part of civil construction is the
bridge. Bridges are among the most complex and difficult construction projects you can manage.

Because of their complexity, bridges can cost more to build than other construction projects.
Bridge construction and repair are essential for ensuring safety and allowing people to travel
easily from one point to the next. Building airports is the last type of infrastructure construction
project. A construction crew could either build a new airport or fix an existing one to make it
more attractive. These airports can also be expanded to accommodate more terminals.

2) The residential construction project can include constructing new homes, apartments, and
condominiums.
3) Commercial construction projects are the most common type. This category includes buildings
that serve a commercial purpose. Commercial construction is when a project is being built to

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 bring your local Target or Costco to your area. These construction projects often have a huge
scope. This means they need more equipment and more workers.
4) Industrial construction project is focusing on the building of warehouses. These complex
projects can be very difficult. To get this project off the ground, you will need the assistance of
skilled and experienced subcontractors. A large, open space with high ceilings is necessary to
build a warehouse. This design will allow you to store more products than other designs.

What Is Architectural Project?

Architectural Projects:

Architectural Projects are among the documents required for building permits. Architectural
projects are prepared by the architects of the building in question. Before starting a project, the
architects will examine the main issues such as land structure, road route, electricity – water
network, tree and climatic conditions. This study is called “First Review.

Since the past, people have given importance to the aesthetic, robust and functional structures in which
they live and work. Therefore, aesthetics, robustness and functionality are the three main elements of
architecture. Many of buildings have been built up to date with aesthetic architecture in the world and
in our country, and at the same time, with its robust and functional structure, accommodating three
different factors together. For this reason, Architects who want to achieve success must combine these
three basic elements of architecture – aesthetic concern, building strength, building functionality – with
their own knowledge and skills.

 Aesthetic is the appeal of a building covers the combined effects of a building's shape, size,
texture, color, balance, unity, movement, emphasis, contrast, symmetry, proportion, space,
alignment, pattern, decoration, culture and context.
 Robust is the ability of a structure to withstand events like fire, explosions, impact or the
consequences of human error, without being damaged to an extent disproportionate to the
original cause."
 Function' refers to the purpose of a building or structure. It can also relate to the proper
operation, process or performance of something and how it works

Projects should not be considered purely as technical and numerical data. Projects are taken into
account on ecological, economic, social and cultural issues. In this way, the balance in public
and industrial areas, residential areas or the existing order is maintained. In addition, the
problems that may arise due to the balance created become predictable and solutions to possible
problems are quickly produced.

This process is carried out jointly with the engineers

Roles and Responsibilities of Architects in Construction Projects

Architects are in charge of design and project planning, and they are also responsible for the
visual appearance of buildings and structures. The term “architect” refers only to individuals who
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are registered with a local governing body. To become licensed, architects must meet specific
professional training requirements and pass an exam. Architectural services can be obtained from
individuals without licenses, but they cannot call themselves architects and cannot sign
construction documents.

Architects work hand-in-hand with other professionals such as civil and HVAC engineers to
deliver qualified designs. Architects have several responsibilities during all stages of a project,
from the initial drafts and meetings to the inauguration of a building. Architects are appointed by
the client, and they have the duty of gathering all the information and ideas necessary to create a
functional space that meets client needs while being code compliant.

Once an architect is contacted by a client, a meeting is called to discuss the project needs and
requirements. Several meetings may take place until both parties are satisfied with the conceptual
design. However, designing an entire building is a huge task for a single person; architects work
with civil and structural engineers to discuss technical issues and the structural integrity of a
building. Architects role is important in every stage of a building project.

What is project feasibility?

Feasibility is the possibility and ability for something to be done.

A feasibility study is one of the first steps in a building project. It allows you to assess your
current space and identify constraints and opportunities. After the study, you can discuss the
results with your team, weigh the pros and cons of each option, and determine the best course of
action

Project Feasibility refers to whether or not a project will be successful and how to overcome
potential obstacles for the project. If you're in a project management role, conducting a feasibility
study can help you evaluate a project from start to finish and make decisions before the project
begins.

What does a feasibility study analyze?

Feasibility studies analyze particular areas the project affects in order to consider its impact
across the entire business. These studies analyze five types of feasibility:

 Technical feasibility: This focuses on the project's technical needs and determines how a
company can meet those needs. For example, a project may require tools or software that
a company doesn't currently have, and the study can help them determine whether the
project merits the investment.
 Economic feasibility: This refers to cost and provides detailed information about project
spending, expected revenue, projected profits and the company's return on investment. It
outlines the financial benefits of the project to determine its worth.
 Legal feasibility: This addresses the legal requirements of the project, such as permits or
licenses. The feasibility study defines legal requirements and confirms whether
compliance with legal requirements will benefit the company overall.

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  Operational feasibility: Operational aspects of the feasibility study include references to
how the organization will adapt to the project and how the project serves the
organization's goals and mission. For example, a feasibility study might that determine a
project will require additional personnel, so the company may launch a hiring initiative.
 Schedule feasibility: This sets the timeline for the project and expectations for milestones
or goals. It addresses time constraints and strategies to overcome delays.

An architectural feasibility study investigates and evaluates the potential of a site or building.
It sets out clearly a brief history of the site, its overall condition and significance. It explores
the planning constraints and opportunities as well as evaluating the planning of statutory
services.

The feasibility study considers all aspects of a building project, including site analysis,
zoning regulations, building codes, environmental impact, and budget. It provides a
preliminary design that gives clients an early visual representation of the project, helping
them make informed decisions about its feasibility.

The most important part of a feasibility study is the thorough and accurate assessment of the
project's viability. This includes analyzing the technical, economic, legal, scheduling, and operational
aspects to determine whether the project is achievable and sustainable.

Our feasibility studies are always tailored to meet a Client’s needs. They can range from a
relatively simple assessment to a complex review of different sites and potential uses. In all
cases the project is appraised, options are identified in discussion with the Client and outline
schemes can be developed, costed and reviewed with the Client.

The Architectural Project Phases

After having detailed information about the demands of the employer and the land where the
structure will be located, sketches are drawn according to the size of the land. Afterwards, cross-
sectional and appearance drawings are made. While making these drawings, environmental
factors are not ignored and the general aesthetics and architectural features of the environment
are taken into consideration.

Projects should not be considered purely as technical and numerical data. Projects are taken into
account on ecological, economic, social and cultural issues. In this way, the balance in public
and industrial areas, residential areas or the existing order is maintained. In addition, the
problems that may arise due to the balance created become predictable and solutions to possible
problems are quickly produced.

This process is carried out jointly with the engineers who carry out the static project and
undertake the project management.

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After the sketch and design stage, perspective and technical drawings are made. After the
approval of the project developed with sketch drawings, the Preliminary Project should be
prepared.

The Preliminary Project is to present the design ideas mentioned above on paper to the employer.
Following the approval of the preliminary project, the next step is “Final Project”.

Architectural Feasibility Study

An architectural feasibility study considers all of the aspects of your proposed project. Through
an architectural feasibility study, our clients can test the viability of the project before
undertaking any real significant expense. The study attempts to answer the big questions early in
the decision making process.

An architectural feasibility study investigates and evaluates the potential of a site or building. It
clearly sets out a brief history of the site, its overall condition and significance, as well as the
constraints and opportunities.

To conduct an architectural feasibility study we meet with the clients and discuss their ideas,
their needs and wants. We visit the site to conduct an initial site assessment. Preliminary designs
and accompanying photo montages of a proposed development are then created. In an effort to
keep costs low the design is not overly detailed but will incorporate the basic principles.

These preliminary designs are used as the basis to explore the feasibility for the project before
detailed costly and complex drawings, surveys and accompanying reports are undertake. The
preliminary design undertaken as part of a feasibility study will have to be revisited if after the
study the project is economically viable and has received tentative approval from the planning
authority.

All of the relevant stakeholders can then be approached with the preliminary designs. The
planning authority can provide feedback as to the potential likelihood of the project receiving
planning permission. Estimated development costings can be put together based on the
preliminary designs.

The design can be used to test the market demand for the proposed development. It can be very
useful for potential purchasers to get an accurate realization as to what can be achieved out of a
potential site. Furthermore, it can reassure investors that the site or proposed development has
significant potential and revenue return.

Undertaking an architectural feasibility study will also allow the development vision to be tested,
scrutinized and focus direction for the development. Each and every factor directly or indirectly
associated to the project can be examined through the study.

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Perhaps most importantly, the feasibility study can sometimes a much needed and cost-effective
reality check for investors by answering the questions relating to the proposed project that
require accurate answers, in order to avoid the dangerous pitfalls and money being wasted on
projects that are not viable.

An architectural feasibility study has many different facets to the study. Usually the study has
very different approaches depending on the type of development objectives. Typically the study
starts with a detailed evaluation on the suitability of the site for the development in question.
Concept designs are then created for the site in line with the aesthetic quality desired. A budget is
generated based on quantifiable construction costs. Finally documents of analysis are generated
asking and answering the big questions. If the project passes the architectural feasibility study it
proves the project is viable on a range of fronts.

We develop preliminary design proposals and use the preliminary design as the basis to ask the
big questions and assess how accurate the specific answers are. We have the knowledge and
experience to guide you through the big questions to properly evaluate and scrutinize the validity
of the proposals.

Various dimensions of feasibility studies done for an architectural project.

 The feasibility study considers all aspects of a building project, including site analysis, zoning
regulations, building codes, environmental impact, and budget. It provides a preliminary
design that gives clients an early visual representation of the project, helping them make
informed decisions about its feasibility.

Architectural Site Analysis & Feasibility Study

 We know that architecture is not just about drawing plans and designing spaces. There is a lot
more that goes into every decision that is made, even before planning and beginning to design.
Just like the preliminary site analysis and feasibility study, which is considered to be an essential
stage before starting any ‘real’ work on the project.

What is site feasibility study and analysis?

Picture this: You are setting off on an unknown journey along a mountainous road with hairpin bends
and don’t know how long the journey will take, which paths are smooth and which areas are high-risk
zones. You cannot plan your journey, there are bound to be unexpected turns, and you are constantly
driving under a lot of stress.

Now, what if someone took a helicopter ride over the mountain before you embarked on that journey
and informed you in advance about all the paths that are smooth and the bends that are really risky?
You will not only be able to plan your journey better but also take it easy as you already know what to
expect and can avoid the avoidable.

That’s what site feasibility study undertaken by architectural firms, developers and contractors does for
a client.

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In other words, it is research undertaken before beginning any design work, to determine 1.) The
possibilities of building on a site 2.) Whether it is financially and practically viable.

Based on this analysis, a site feasibility study report is made. The report includes data like site and
surrounding area characteristics, soil nature, source of water and electricity, zoning details, land use
development in compliance with local rules, technicalities of the structure, cost analysis and more
factors. Feasibility reports play an extremely useful role for clients to decide whether or not to
commission a design. Clients can look at the report and understand the best use of space, be aware of
the inherent risks of building a project on that site and see if it is compliant to planning constraints laid
down by regulatory bodies.

Feasibility studies for building projects help architects, developers, contractors and clients make key
construction-stage decisions during the pre-concept stage. It also ensures that broad financial viability is
assessed and cost estimates are made more accurately.

Who does site feasibility analysis?

The burden is usually on architects and architectural firms to prepare site feasibility study reports with
the help of other professionals like planners, MEP engineers, civil engineers, surveyors and project
managers contributing to the overall study.

The architect remains the key stakeholder, collaborating with these other disciplines and incorporating
their information into the final feasibility study report, while the land owner or developer is involved
throughout the study.

Benefits of site analysis & feasibility studies

#1 Maximizes ROI (Return on Investment) for clients

With architects analyzing key aspects of a site beforehand, clients can check the viability of the project
before investing any real amount in it. They can also address any constraints at the outset, which can
avoid any issues later on, saving them huge expenses. What’s more, cost estimates proposed in site
feasibility reports help clients understand labor costs, material costs and more at the outset and agree
upon an economically viable solution.

#2 helps make informed decisions

Architects create preliminary plans, projections and forecasts based on the findings of their analysis,
which gives everyone involved an overview of the structure, discuss iterations in advance and finalize
the finer details. It lets architects and clients make informed decisions and lock details before any work
for the building begins.

#3 Saves time

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Neither clients nor architects are mind readers, so converting clients’ ideas into concrete plans requires
in-depth planning and arriving upon mutual decisions. Based on the site analysis, architects make a
proposed concept and recommend project components, which helps save time for everyone involved in
visualizing. At the same time, all stakeholders involved consider practical aspects of the project
together, which optimizes everyone’s time.

#4 No legal implications

When you create a site feasibility report, you take into account whether the proposed plan is binding
with local regulations. The planning authority can see the preliminary plans and designs and give
feedback. It can keep the project and your client away from any legal entanglement later on.

#5 tapping hidden opportunities

Architectural site feasibility study can sometimes open up not-so-obvious design opportunities and new
ways to maximize the space’s possibilities, because you get to look at the project in an in-depth manner.

#6 Better productivity

By freezing the finer details of the project at the beginning, all members of the architectural firm,
developers, contractors and external stakeholders can work with better focus, to achieve the same
vision.

Stages of site feasibility studies

Each architectural firm approaches site feasibility study in a different way, depending on the scale and
scope of the project. Typically, the study consists of these broad stages and elements, which culminate
in a site feasibility report:

1. Site Evaluation and Suitability

Architectural firms start by understanding key parameters like site location, type of land, surface
elevation, nature of soil, availability of water and power, electrical energy, climate conditions,
connectivity by road, rail and air, approach roads, site neighborhood, utility lines, telecommunication
availability and social infrastructure in and around the site. This is done by primary research by land
surveyors i.e. visiting the site, talking to local representatives as well as secondary research i.e. using
tools to understand the site topography, sun orientation etc.

2. Market Analysis & Demographics

Depending on the type of project, some architects also do an in-depth segmentation of the market and
evaluate the demographic profile of the area or the city. For example, if an architectural firm has been
given a project for development of a recreation center in a Tier-III town, it would help to understand the
highlights of the town, the age-wise population, and literacy rate, Socio Economic Classification and
more, which can become a part of the site feasibility report.

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3. Regulation Parameters

It involves taking into consideration and understanding the local government’s zoning guidelines,
limitations set by the municipality, FSI rules and more at this stage. This helps architects plan as per the
possibilities available within the legally permissible framework.

4. Drawings and Master Planning

Based on the above elements, the site masterplan and building drawings are made at this stage. The
plans typically show the building structure and layout, number of towers, number of floors, landscaping,
circulation, amenities and more important design elements of the project. 2D and 3D diagrams can be
made at this stage to showcase the development potential.
Land use planning is done with a break-up of how the land will be utilized, for example – recreational
purpose or for residing purpose.

5. Financial Analysis

Financial projections are made based on the area of the project, estimates of raw material requirement,
labor requirement, operation costs, prevalent taxes, depreciation and allied costs.

6. Project Recommendations

Meaningful inferences, projections and forecasts are made based on the findings of the research. A
project schedule is proposed with suggested project components, and justification for the proposal.

7. Application & Approvals

Once the site elements are finalized, architectural firms and real estate developers apply for necessary
approvals to different bodies, seek in-person appointments and create necessary drawings for the
application.

Some of the questions an architectural feasibility study can answer:

1) What is the likelihood of planning permission being granted?

2) What are the construction costs associated to the development?
3) What are the likely operations costs of the facility?
4) What are the likely profit projections for the facility when fully operational?
5) What are the alternative usages of the facility and which use is the best match for the site
and present project participants?
6) What are the non-negotiable issues affecting the project viability?
7) What is the level of risk involved in the investment?
8) What is the expected time frame associated to the completion of the project? When it is
likely the facility will be fully operational and when is it likely to generate a profit?
9) Do you have the organizational capacity to take on a project of this sale and have you
access to the key people to drive the project?
10) An architectural feasibility study often plays a valuable role in securing necessary funding
from banking institutions or availing of any grant aid available.

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