Process
As architects we offer a comprehensive service from project inception to completion, with services being tailored to each individual client and each project’s specific requirements.
Key stages of the process are described briefly here, but please give us a call and we’ll explain how these relate to your own project.
Stage 1: Define and Design
Briefing
Gaining a full understanding of your specific needs and requirements underpins the whole design process. Through a series of discussions with you, we will discover the key issues driving the project, and refine your priorities by design.
Measured Survey
A thorough knowledge of your property is key to effective design. We will carry out a measured survey of the house and produce scale drawings documenting it as it stands. These drawings will form the basis of every following stage of the process.
Sketch Design
Using the measured survey drawings and briefing notes we will begin to develop a design response to your brief. Through an iterative process we will review and refine a series of sketches with you investigating alternative approaches to the design challenge.
Stage 2: Develop
Scheme Drawings and Planning Approvals
We will develop your preferred sketch scheme into more accurate drawings suitable for submission to the local planning authority for planning consent or a certificate of lawful development for permitted development projects.
Stage 3: Document and Detail
Building Regulations Drawings and Approval, Specification and Schedule of Work
Securing Building Regs approval before starting on site helps minimise risk so we create detailed drawings covering structural aspects, plumbing and drainage, electrics and so forth and submit them for approval.
With your input, we will write a detailed specification describing materials and workmanship standards for your project. We will also prepare a schedule of work describing key aspects of the build.
Stage 4: Deliver
Tendering, Contract Administration and Site Inspection
We will carry out a competitive tender process to a series of contractors supplying each with the drawings, spec and schedule. We will analyse the tender returns and help you choose the most suitable builder for your project.
We can prepare the contract documentation and act impartially in administering the building contract between client and contractor if you wish. We can make monthly site inspection visits and issue payment certificates ensuring you only pay for work that has been properly executed and that any necessary changes to the scope or specification are handled fairly.
