Architectural design proceeds through three main phases. Schematic Design (SD) — the concept phase — produces: site plan, rough floor plans, basic elevations, and a preliminary cost estimate. SD confirms that the design concept is achievable within the program and budget before significant design investment. Design Development (DD) refines the schematic design into dimensioned drawings with material specifications, structural system definition, and MEP system layouts. DD is where major cost-driving decisions are made and is the last efficient point for value engineering. Construction Documents (CDs) produce the permit-ready, dimensioned, engineer-stamped drawing set that forms the basis of the building permit and the construction contract — A/S/M/P/E/C drawing sheets, specifications, and energy compliance documentation. Each phase represents a progressively larger design investment and a progressively higher cost to change decisions made in that phase.