Design reviews are reviews of the architectural concept, and of later design information, carried out by the client and other project stakeholders to gather comments and decide whether the design meets the requirements of the project brief.
Design reviews take place at key points in the design process, particularly at the end of each RIBA stage, and are often linked to formal approvals or funding gateways. The QS contributes by reporting the cost of the design against the cost plan and cost limit, and by flagging any proposals that put the budget at risk. Changes agreed at a design review should be recorded and costed so that the cost plan stays aligned with the design.
- Reviews may cover function, quality, buildability, sustainability and cost.
- Late changes following a review can affect both programme and cost.
Related terms: architectural concept, project brief, cost checking, design studies.
