The first step of the design phase is the schematic design. The schematic design is where the architect gathers information on the client's needs, style, and wants for the project, and from there he will create two to three design options for the client to review. In the design development, the architect will take the schematic designs and develop them into an approved design concept. Any changes the client wants to make to the design should be communicated to the architect during this phase. Construction begins once you’ve settled on a design concept that fits your needs.

Architectural design is considered to be a process in which policy is established. Policy in this respect is the allocation of values in the various areas of the architectural design field. Current architectural designs and construction practices are placing increasingly higher requirements on concrete, in terms of strength, durability, and sustainability.