Architectural design is exactly what it sounds like: a design method that centers on the features and components of a structure. An architect, a person who designs buildings, handles the design and generally oversees the construction to make sure the vision of the project is elegantly and expertly executed.

Having trouble calling to mind an example of architectural design? It’s likely you’ve encountered countless examples, but here are a few famous cases that you may have seen, or even visited: The Louvre Museum in Paris, France, Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia.

Architectural design can, at first, seem like a complicated aspect of building or remodeling a home; the various stages and terminologies can be overwhelming. Here’s a complete overview of each stage, what that stage’s goal is and what you need to know as a homeowner to make the best decision for your design goals.