Construction Documents

Detailed documents of the development project put together by the architect after the Design Development Phase of the design process. The Construction Documents (CDs) reflect the finalized building design and provide specific details to communicate to the contractor and subcontractors how the project should be constructed. These legally binding documents are used during construction by all the trades and are also initially used to obtain bids from contractors and subcontractors. CDs, at minimum, will include numerous detailed drawings of the project and a specifications manual.

Putting “Construction Documents” in Context

Scenario:

Southern Heights Development, a real estate development firm based in Augusta, Georgia, is in the process of developing a limited-service hotel called Magnolia Inn & Suites. The project involves the construction of a 120-room hotel located near Augusta National Golf Club, aiming to cater to both tourists and business travelers visiting the area. The development is an opportunistic investment, with Southern Heights Development taking on significant construction risk in exchange for the potential of outsized returns upon completion.

Role of Construction Documents:

As the Project Manager at Southern Heights Development, you are responsible for overseeing the entire development process, from initial concept through to final construction. After months of planning and design work, the project has reached the stage where the Construction Documents (CDs) are being finalized by the project’s architect.

The Construction Documents are crucial to the successful execution of the Magnolia Inn & Suites project. These documents include a comprehensive set of detailed architectural drawings, structural engineering plans, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) drawings, and a specifications manual. Together, these materials form the backbone of the project, translating the initial design concept into a detailed blueprint for construction.

Using Construction Documents to Move Forward:

Once the Construction Documents are complete, you will use them to solicit bids from general contractors. The detailed nature of the CDs ensures that each contractor has a clear and precise understanding of the project’s requirements, which is critical for obtaining accurate bids. The CDs also help prevent misinterpretations that could lead to costly changes or delays during construction.

For instance, the architectural drawings within the CDs include detailed floor plans, elevations, and section views that outline the layout of the 120 guest rooms, lobby, and amenities like the fitness center and breakfast area. The structural drawings detail the foundation and framing systems, which are especially important given Augusta’s humid climate and the need for robust construction materials to prevent mold and water damage.

The specifications manual within the CDs provides detailed instructions on the quality and types of materials to be used, such as the specific grade of carpet in the guest rooms, the brand and model of HVAC systems, and the type of exterior cladding. This level of detail ensures that the finished Magnolia Inn & Suites meets the high standards Southern Heights Development has set for the project.

Once construction begins, the CDs will serve as the authoritative guide for the contractor and all subcontractors involved. These legally binding documents will be referenced throughout the build to ensure the project adheres to the agreed-upon design and construction standards.

Conclusion:

The Construction Documents are more than just a set of drawings and instructions; they are a critical tool for managing risk in the development of Magnolia Inn & Suites. By providing detailed, accurate, and legally enforceable guidelines, the CDs enable Southern Heights Development to efficiently manage the construction process, ensure quality, and minimize the potential for costly mistakes or delays. As the Project Manager, your ability to understand and utilize the Construction Documents will play a significant role in the success of this opportunistic hotel development in Augusta, Georgia.