What is Programming?
In the context of architectural study, programming is a crucial phase in the design process – taking place before any design work begins. At CNH Architects, the “Program of Space Needs” refers to the decision-making process that defines the scope of work to be designed. This essential process lays the groundwork for all subsequent phases, allowing architects to create spaces that are technically effective and visually attractive – all while aligning with the owners’ goals. With 50+ years of experience, our firm understands how each Program of Space Needs varies greatly and is specific to the type of project in which it serves. However, the general progression and objective remains the same.
Guiding Principles
Determining our “guiding principles” is step one of this process. As you may guess, guiding principles are the principles, or goals, that will guide the entire project going forward. In some cases, guiding principles may pre-exist, and if they do not, the team at CNH has developed a process for establishing them – beginning with broad words and terms – then refining each concept until they become more specific approaches.
From there, research requirements vary widely and are based on the individuality of each project. The research phase can range from simple yet effective conversations to measurable test formats that are enhanced using visual aids to convey data.
Quinn Hutson, Principal, leading a Study of Program Needs discussion with Fire Department personnel
Guided Discussions
When a project is open-ended, our team will often make discoveries alongside the client through a series of discussions. The architects at CNH understand that client education and guidance play the central role in successful programming, and that involvement is the key to programming commitments.
For example, with substantial fire station design experience, the team at CNH can bring expertise to guide this phase. This involves walking through a full array of both traditional and modern fire station design features that could be included in an ideal form. These features become the drivers in effectively communicating what is – and what is not – of top priority to the project team. This insight can also provide clarity surrounding the feasibility and budget for the fire station(s) and reinforces the guiding principles once again.
Programming to Establish Your Budget
Redesigning a project over and over as the requirements emerge, called “programming by design,” is inefficient and takes away time that could be spent making a design more technically effective. 1
Project definition is crucial for both owners and architects to understand the project’s purpose, scope, timetable, and very importantly – budget. By gathering and analyzing data early on, everyone can make more informed decisions, leading to a target square footage/building size, which is critical to proposing a budget. Additionally, the most cost-effective time to make changes is during the programming phase. In summary, the Program of Space Needs is essential for efficient decision-making, user-centric design, and building optimization, and to establish a budget. CNH Architects embraces programming techniques to carry forward your aspirations and objectives.
Headquartered in Apple Valley, MN – CNH Architects, Ltd. is a creative, service-oriented firm that provides innovative design solutions for the commercial building and retail areas, public sector clients, vehicle facility projects, daycare and animal care facilities. CNH has served clients in the Twin Cities and Upper Midwest since 1969.
1 Source: AIA The Architect Handbook of Professional Practice, Vol: 2