Knowing what to expect at every stage reduces uncertainty, keeps projects moving, and helps clients make better decisions along the way.
Start a ConversationEvery commercial project is different, but the way AEDC works stays consistent. We follow a clear, structured process that keeps architecture, MEP engineering, and interior design coordinated at every stage. That coordination reduces surprises, keeps things moving, and helps you understand exactly where your project stands.
The five steps below describe how most AEDC projects unfold — from the first conversation to the delivery of permitted construction documents. Real projects may compress or expand certain phases based on scope and complexity, but the logic remains the same.
We start with a conversation. AEDC learns about your project — the space, the use, the timeline, the budget range, and what success looks like to you. We ask questions, visit the site when appropriate, and make sure the right disciplines are engaged from day one. Architecture, engineering, and interior design all participate in scoping so nothing gets left out later.
We develop the overall concept — floor plans, spatial relationships, major systems, and design direction. This phase establishes how the project will be organized and what it will look and feel like. You see enough to react and make decisions before the details are locked in. Revisions happen here, where they are easiest to accommodate.
The approved concept is developed in full detail. Architecture, MEP systems, and interiors are coordinated in a single set of documents. Structural, civil, and other specialty consultants are integrated. Materials, systems, and finishes are specified. This is where the design becomes buildable — every decision from the schematic phase is worked out and confirmed.
AEDC prepares the full set of construction documents — drawings and specifications complete enough for permitting and bidding. These documents describe every element of the project clearly enough that a contractor can build it and an authority having jurisdiction can review and approve it. Coordination between disciplines is verified before submission.
AEDC submits for permits, responds to agency comments, and works through the approval process. During construction, we answer RFIs, review submittals, issue clarifications, and support the contractor and owner as questions arise in the field. The project is not finished when documents are issued — it is finished when the building is built and the client is open for business.
Most coordination failures happen when architecture, engineering, and interior design work separately and merge late. AEDC integrates all three from the first conversation — so decisions made in schematic design are already informed by engineering and interior requirements, not corrected at the end.
AEDC keeps clients informed at every phase — what decisions are needed, what is being worked on, and what comes next. A clear process means no sudden surprises and no milestones that appear without context. Clients who understand the process make better decisions and end up with better buildings.
Every AEDC project begins with a conversation. Tell us about your commercial project and we'll walk you through how the process works for your specific scope and timeline.
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