Helpful Terms to Know Before Working with an Architect

Every profession has its jargon, and architecture is no exception. From French words like “charrette” to obscure terms like “assemblage,” architects might as well speak a language of their own. 

When working with clients, architects should do their best to avoid jargon. But some architectural terms cannot be avoided. Before starting the design process, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with a few of them.  

This article will discuss some of the most useful terms to know before starting the architectural process. After reading, you’ll feel more confident communicating with an architect and prepared to start the design process. 

14 Terms to Know for Working with an Architect 

1. Program 

An architectural program is a document that outlines all the components of a building and the spatial requirements. For example, a program for a commercial office may break down the square footage of desk space, conference rooms, collaborative zones, and break rooms. 

Some clients have a program before meeting with an architect. Others go through a programming study to determine their needs. 

2. Precedent 

A precedent is anything that inspires or guides the design. Architects study past and present examples of design to generate ideas and solve problems. 

When you start working with an architect, they will likely show you precedents to understand your needs, goals, likes, and dislikes. Precedents are not necessarily specific to your building type or industry. For example, a space in a church can help inspire the design of an office building. 

3. Benchmarking 

Benchmarking falls under the broad umbrella of “precedent research.” The process involves researching similar projects to the one you are planning and comparing costs, performance data, and design solutions. 

Early in the design process, you will likely go on several benchmarking tours to see similar facilities, discuss your opinions, and talk with occupants. This opportunity helps you imagine new ways of approaching the problems with your current space. 

4. Basic and Supplemental Services 

Most architectural contracts break services into two categories: basic and supplemental. Basic services are the duties your architect needs to perform to complete design work and see the project through construction. 

Supplemental services are any necessary services outside the scope of basic services. These services can include existing facilities assessments, master planning, interior design, and Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) selection. 

5. Massing

Massing refers to the general shape and size of a building. You will likely hear this word in the early phases of the design process when your architect is testing different spatial configurations. Your architect may create massing models to help you visualize how the building will fit onto the site. 

6. Solar Orientation 

Solar orientation refers to the building’s position along the sun’s path. Along with the building’s massing, solar orientation is a crucial factor to consider in the early stages of design. 

A building’s orientation has a large impact on energy consumption and utility costs. The goal is to keep the building cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 

7. Elevations and Sections 

Architects use many types of drawings to represent a design. In addition to floor plans, you will likely see elevations and sections.  

Elevations are a two-dimensional view of a building’s exterior or interior. Sections cut through the building, perpendicular to a vertical line. They explain how different floors connect and provide a sense of scale. 

8. Building Certification System 

A building certification system, also known as a green building rating system, is a third-party program that verifies a project was designed, built, and operates as intended. These systems help improve performance, reduce environmental impacts, and promote occupant well-being. 

There are many certification systems available. While Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is the most well-known, the Living Building Challenge (LBC) is the most rigorous and holistic. 

Other rating systems, like WELL and SITES, target more specific goals. WELL focuses on occupant health, and SITES focuses on sustainable landscapes. 

9. Energy Use Intensity 

Energy Use Intensity (EUI) refers to the energy a building uses per square foot annually.  

The number is calculated by dividing the total energy consumed by the building in one year by the total gross floor area. Like Miles Per Gallon for vehicles, EUI is the prime indicator of a building’s performance.

10. Operational and Embodied Carbon 

Operational carbon refers to the carbon emissions buildings release through their energy use, like the energy associated with heating and cooling. 

Embodied carbon refers to the emissions released during the life cycle of a material or system. It is calculated by tracking the emissions released at each phase of a material’s life cycle, including extraction, transportation, manufacturing, construction, maintenance, and disposal.  

Reusing existing buildings and reusing materials is the most effective method for reducing embodied carbon emissions.  

11. Life Cycle Costs 

A life cycle cost is the total cost of a material or system over its lifetime. It includes the cost of maintenance and replacements. 

Often, materials or systems with a low initial cost have a higher life cycle cost. For example, Composite Tile (VCT) has a low initial cost but requires constant maintenance and needs to be replaced often. In the long run, VTC will cost an owner more than a more durable option like polished concrete. 

12. Biophilia 

Biophilia refers to our innate love for nature and our evolutionary desire to spend time outdoors. Since psychologist Eric Fromm coined the term in 1964, biophilia has made its way into many fields, including architecture and interior design. 

Research finds that spending time in and around nature produces many health benefits, including reduced stress and improved cognitive function. As such, many designers work to incorporate natural elements into the built environment. This practice is known as “biophilic design.”

13. End Users/Occupants 

“End users” or “occupants” are the people who use the completed space daily. For example, end-users for a school may include teachers, administration, and students. 

End users often differ from stakeholders (those with a financial stake in the project). Although most design meetings involve stakeholders, your architect should meet with end users. Understanding the occupants’ needs and wants leads to the most successful projects. 

14. Phases of Design 

The design process involves several stages, each with a name. The most important phases are Pre-Design, Schematic Design, Design Development, Contract Documents, and Contract Administration. 

Each phase has its goals and deliverables—helping the project move forward. To learn more about each, read about the seven steps of the architectural process. 

Learn More About the Architectural Process 

Like all professionals, architects use internal jargon. If you haven’t worked with an architect before, some terms and phrases may be confusing, but brushing up on a few key terms can prepare you for the process ahead. 

As mentioned, architects should try their best to avoid jargon when communicating with clients. If your architect ever says something you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to speak up and ask questions. An architect should help you understand the design and guide you through the process. 

Along with an architect, you will also work with a contractor. Prepare by learning about the construction terms every building owner should know.