Schematic Design
There are usually two stages to the design process. First is the conceptual design, done for general costing, showing how the building is sited on the land and a general layout and idea of how the building might look. This conceptual design will help you with fundraising activities. When there is agreement on the concept and the funding is in place, you can move to the second phase - the detailed drawings.
Before the architect begins design drawings, it is useful to undertake a design charrette exercise (link to box describing design charrette exercises)
If at all possible, you should design your indoor and outdoor spaces at the same time. The relationship between the indoors and outdoors is an important consideration for the program and how it will support the curriculum. There should be a strong visual connection between the indoors and outdoors, and if at all possible the outdoors should be immediately adjacent to the child's indoor play space.
Preparing the Development Application
Usually your architect will apply for the development applications on your behalf. The requirements vary by municipality - check with your local building department to find out what is required for your development application submission.
Generally, you would include required sets of plans showing: (for example)
- The site plan (including where the building is located on the site, parking spaces, size and location of the outdoor play space, and landscaping outside the playground. Detailed design of outdoor playground can wait until later.
- The building plan includes all floor levels of the building with uses identified. The building plans must also include exterior elevations, a building design rationale where local design guidelines do exist, and context photos; and
- Layout of the interior child care space.
Your local Building Department will advise you about exactly what's needed.
You will probably be required to complete a development permit application, submit a fee (some municipalities charge a reduced rate for non-profit organizations), include a summary of the needs assessment process and results; provide a written description of any existing child care programs on site, the capacity and type of the proposed service, hours of operation, number of staff, a contact/liaison person, any other indoor and outdoor play space that may occasionally be used by the children or staff, proposed parking arrangements for drop-off and pick-up, and any other information that might explain unique aspects of your proposal and the public benefits. You will already have completed this in your planning period.
Submitting the Development Application and Getting a Permit
- Sign and submit your application (with attachments) to the appropriate department. You may be required to submit additional information or revised plans to meet local requirements.
- Before submitting your application, it is a good idea to notify neighbours within a one to two block radius about the proposed development and invite them to submit their comments.
- Once the applicant has met all the conditions, the local authority usually approves and issues a Development permit. The permit may be time-limited.
Resources
Examples of facilities programs and building specifications can be found in the following resources technical guidelines :