Architecture Project Stages – A Sustainable House Step by Step

Building a sustainable house is not merely a technical exercise; in fact, it is a personal expression, a lifelong investment, and, above all, a commitment to the future. Moreover, the process involves much more than choosing finishes or defining room layouts—it requires knowledge, planning, creativity, and a responsible approach to the land and natural resources.
At MJARC Architects, we believe that building a sustainable house is essential to ensuring it is beautiful, functional, efficient, and environmentally friendly. That’s why this guide was created to help you understand all the stages of a residential architecture project—whether it’s a new build, a full renovation, or a rehabilitation. In addition, we’ve included the environmental strategies that guide our projects from the very first sketch.

1. Share the Vision:

It all starts with a conversation — a moment to share ideas, needs, and desires. That’s why the first meeting with the architect is essential to establish a solid foundation of understanding and trust. During this meeting, topics such as the following are discussed:

• The family’s lifestyle and number of occupants;
• Functional and aesthetic goals of the project;
• Location, type of land or property to be developed;
• Available budget;
• Deadlines and any legal or heritage constraints.

In addition, this is also the stage where principles of energy efficiency, water management, and landscape integration are introduced—always aligned with the overall vision of the project. At MJARC Architects, we treat this phase with the attention it deserves, as it is here that the foundations are laid for building a sustainable, truly personalised, and conscious home.

2. Urban Context and Analysis of Site / Building Constraints

Before designing, it is essential to thoroughly understand the context. Therefore, the feasibility study is a comprehensive analysis that evaluates the possibilities of the land or building and its compatibility with the client’s desires.
This phase includes:

• Topographical and solar analysis (orientation, views, slopes);
• Verification of existing infrastructure and accessibility;
• Study of urban planning legislation (Municipal Master Plan, General Urban Regulations, specific standards);
• Assessment of building capacity and legal constraints;
• Environmental and landscape diagnosis of the site;
• Estimation of the initial investment.

In addition, basic sustainability strategies are also discussed, such as:

• Passive use of natural light and ventilation;
• Collection and reuse of rainwater;
• Preliminary designation of areas for gardens with native species;
• Use of local or low environmental impact materials.

In this way, this detailed framework ensures that the project meets the principles for building a sustainable house that is integrated into its surroundings.

3. Preliminary Study

3.1. Definition of Concept and Volumetry

It is at this stage that the dream begins to take shape. The preliminary study translates the client’s desires into spatial, volumetric, and aesthetic solutions through drawings such as:

• Schematic floor plans and functional flowcharts;
• Volumetric proposals and site integration;
• 3D perspectives and digital models;
• Initial proposals for materials and finishes.

3.2. Sections, plans, and elevations

The height and width of the building are defined, along with the number of floors and solar orientation to optimise natural lighting and allow for passive ventilation through the chimney effect, reducing heat loss. Additionally, factors that can be optimised are evaluated, such as the building’s width, increased ceiling heights, and zenithal lighting, whether through a roof or a courtyard.
The proportion of openings is also considered, as they influence natural light, ventilation, and shading of the façades, which can be protected by passive emitters and external shading devices.

3.3. Bioclimatic Strategies

Bioclimatic strategies are integrated, such as:

• Natural shading for summer protection;
• Use of green roofs or biofilter gardens;
• Creation of buffer zones (such as balconies and pergolas).

Thus, this approach allows the creation of spaces with high energy efficiency, reducing consumption and increasing thermal and acoustic comfort.

4. Execution Project:

With the concept approved, we enter the most detailed phase of the process: the execution project. This includes:

• Technical architectural and specialty plans (structures, water, electricity, HVAC);
• Descriptive and justificatory reports;
• Specifications and quantity schedules.

In this phase, we deepen the focus on water and energy efficiency with:

• Solar thermal heating systems and photovoltaic panels;
• Natural or recyclable thermal insulation;
• Greywater reuse for irrigation or toilets;
• Optimised natural lighting and motion sensors.

Landscaping elements are also defined, such as:

• Gardens with climate-adapted vegetation;
• Areas for infiltration and retention of rainwater;
• Paths, courtyards, and leisure areas integrated into the natural environment.

In short, the execution project constitutes a coordinated set of written and drawn information, easily interpreted by the authorities responsible for the construction, in compliance with the provisions of Article 51 of Decree-Law No. 48 871, dated February 19, 1969.
Moreover, we adapt solutions whenever necessary, ensuring flexibility and quality throughout the entire process.

Technical Principles and Application

Components of mechanical installations are specified to maintain good energy efficiency over a long lifespan, such as gas condensing boilers, thermostatic valves for radiators, and temperature control systems adjusted according to external conditions.
The lengths of hot water pipes are minimised to ensure maximum efficiency.

5. Licensing and Construction Monitoring

With the complete project, we handle the entire licensing process, including:

• Pedido de licença de construção ou comunicação prévia;
• Acompanhamento de pareceres e correções necessárias;
• Ligação com entidades públicas e privadas.

Once approved, the construction phase begins. MJARC ensures:

• Technical supervision (site visits, compliance checks);
• Coordination with contractors and suppliers;
• Support for the client with last-minute decisions;
• Adaptation of solutions whenever necessary.

In this way, continuous monitoring ensures that the construction respects the project and the environmental and technical principles established for building a sustainable house.

In summary:

At MJARC Architects, we believe that every home should be an extension of its inhabitants’ lives — but also of the place in which it stands. That’s why each project is an opportunity to create human, environmental, and urban value.
If you’re thinking about building, renovating, or rehabilitating, talk to us. We’ll help you turn your vision into a concrete, efficient, and harmonious reality.

Contact us to schedule an initial meeting.
Take the first step towards the home you’ve always imagined.