Frequently Asked Questions
What is KDA Design + Architecture (KDA D+A)?
KDA Design + Architecture (KDA D+A) is the independent architectural design practice of Architect Kristoffer Diaz Aquino, UAP. We provide architectural design, pre-design services, physical planning, interior architecture, feasibility studies, design consultancy, and related professional services.
Our approach combines practical design thinking, creative problem-solving, and appropriate digital and AI-assisted tools to develop spaces that are functional, meaningful, and responsive to each client's goals, site, and budget.
Do you issue official receipts or invoices?
KDA D+A ensures that client transactions are properly documented. Appropriate billing and payment documentation is provided in accordance with applicable Philippine tax and regulatory requirements.
We are committed to keeping every transaction clear, transparent, and properly recorded.
Do you have a physical office?
At present, KDA D+A operates as an independent, freelance, and primarily online-based architectural practice. This allows us to work flexibly with clients in different locations while keeping communication and coordination efficient.
Consultations and project meetings may be conducted online or on-site, depending on the needs of the project.
What services does KDA D+A offer?
KDA D+A provides architectural and design-related professional services including:
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Pre-design services
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Architectural design
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Physical planning
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Interior architecture
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Feasibility studies
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Design consultancy
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3D visualization and presentation
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Selected digital and AI-assisted design services
The appropriate scope of services depends on the nature, requirements, and stage of each project.
What is Pre-Design?
Pre-Design is the stage where the project is understood and evaluated before detailed architectural design begins.
It may include understanding the client's objectives, site or property, space requirements, budget considerations, applicable regulations, site conditions, project constraints, feasibility considerations, and overall project direction.
Depending on the project, Pre-Design may also involve site assessment, research, initial space programming, planning studies, and other preliminary investigations.
This stage helps establish a clearer foundation for the design and can help clients make better-informed decisions before committing to a full design process.
Do you offer AI-assisted floor plan design?
Yes. KDA D+A offers AI-assisted floor plan design as part of its evolving digital design services.
AI tools can help explore alternative layouts, space-planning ideas, and design possibilities more efficiently. They are used as part of the design process—not as a replacement for professional architectural judgment.
Final design decisions remain guided by architectural principles, project requirements, site conditions, applicable regulations, and the client's objectives.
What types of projects do you accept?
We work on a range of residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects, including new construction, renovation, remodeling, and adaptive reuse.
We also consider planning, feasibility, and design consultancy engagements where a full architectural design service may not be required.
What is your design process?
KDA D+A tailors the design process to the needs, scale, and complexity of each project. Depending on the engagement, the process may include:
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Pre-Design – understanding the client's objectives, site or property, project requirements, budget considerations, applicable constraints, and overall project direction. This may include site assessment, research, feasibility considerations, space programming, and initial planning.
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Schematic Design – developing design concepts, space planning, preliminary layouts, and the overall architectural direction based on the established project requirements.
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Design Development – refining the selected concept, including architectural details, materials, aesthetics, systems coordination, and other design considerations.
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Contract Documents – preparing the architectural drawings, specifications, and other technical documentation required for the agreed scope of the project.
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Construction Coordination – providing appropriate architectural assistance and coordination during implementation to help maintain the design intent, subject to the agreed scope of services.
For smaller projects, consultations, feasibility studies, or specialized design engagements, only the stages relevant to the project may be undertaken.
How long does the design process take?
Project timelines vary depending on the size, complexity, scope, site conditions, client requirements, and level of documentation needed.
A simple residential or consultation engagement may be completed within a relatively short period, while larger or more complex projects may take several months.
An estimated timeline and scope of work will be discussed with the client before the project begins.
Do you provide 3D designs, renderings, or walkthroughs?
Yes. Depending on the project scope, KDA D+A can provide 3D perspectives, architectural visualizations, renderings, walkthroughs, and other presentation materials to help clients understand the proposed design before construction.
The specific type and extent of visualization will depend on the project's requirements and agreed scope of services.
What about the engineering requirements of a project?
Architecture is only one part of a complete building project. When engineering services are required, KDA D+A coordinates with qualified engineering consultants covering disciplines such as structural, electrical, sanitary, mechanical, and other specialized requirements as appropriate.
Engineering services are separate professional services and are not automatically included in KDA D+A's architectural professional fee.
Are engineering fees included in your professional fee?
No. KDA D+A's architectural professional fee covers the architectural services included in the agreed scope.
Engineering services and their corresponding professional fees are handled separately. This provides greater transparency and allows the appropriate technical consultants to be engaged according to the specific requirements of the project.
Do you assist with building permits and government approvals?
Yes. Where included in the agreed scope of services, KDA D+A can assist and guide clients through the preparation and coordination of documents required for building permits and other applicable government approvals.
The extent of assistance depends on the project, location, authorities involved, and agreed professional services.
Can KDA D+A work with my existing contractor or consultants?
Yes. KDA D+A can coordinate with the client's existing contractor, engineers, suppliers, or other project consultants when appropriate.
The specific responsibilities and extent of coordination will depend on the project's scope and the professional services agreed upon.
Can you work within my budget?
Yes. Budget considerations are addressed as early as possible in the design process.
KDA D+A aims to develop design solutions that are appropriate to the client's priorities, site, requirements, and available budget. Establishing a realistic project scope early helps ensure that the design remains achievable.
Can I consult KDA D+A even if I am not ready to build yet?
Yes. You do not necessarily need to be ready for construction before consulting an architect.
KDA D+A can assist with early-stage planning, feasibility studies, site and space considerations, conceptual design, renovation ideas, and other design-related questions to help you determine the appropriate direction for your project.
How do I start a project with KDA D+A?
The first step is an initial consultation. We discuss your project, objectives, site or property, requirements, budget considerations, and the type of assistance you need.
From there, we can determine the appropriate scope of professional services and the next steps for your project.
Still have questions?
Every project is different. If you have a question about your property, design idea, or potential project, feel free to get in touch with KDA D+A.
We would be happy to discuss your requirements and determine how we can assist.