Services
Initial Consultation
An initial consultation is the first step in any architectural project. During this phase, we meet the client at the proposed property to discuss the project’s scope, budget, and specific requirements. We will gather information to ensure we have an understanding of the client’s needs and goals. We will also explain our design approach, and after the meeting we will provide a fee proposal. The goal of the initial consultation is to ensure that the project is feasible, and we have a clear understanding of the client’s expectations.
Measured Survey
Either a member of our team, or one of our experienced associate surveyors are able to undertake a measured and/or topographical survey of the property and site depending on the level of detail required for the project.
Briefing Meeting
During a briefing meeting, one of our architects and the client will discuss several key aspects. Firstly, we will provide details of the measured survey and discuss the site location, floor plans and elevations, and any planning constraints that must be considered. We will also ask questions to gain a clear understanding of the client’s preferences, lifestyle, and any specific requirements. We may discuss the project’s budget and timeline, as well as any necessary permits, approvals required and third party consultants that may be necessary. We consider this meeting as an opportunity for both parties to ask questions, clarify any doubts, and establish our collaborative working relationship.
Conceptual Design
The design sketch/concept stage provides our clients with an initial understanding of both the spatial parameters of the proposed footprint, and the external material considerations in terms of size, shapes and colours. This stage also enables us to advise, and allow clients to assess the feasibility of the proposed ideas before developing. Our experienced team is able to discuss all project considerations and provide an overview of likely costs at this stage, which enables our clients to refine their brief before progressing to a final design. We are able to provide either 2 dimensional schematic plans, or axonometric and perspective 3D visuals, to accompany schematic plans, depending on the nature of the project and client requirements. The principal aim is to provide clients with a comprehensive understanding of the appearance of the building inclusive of any proposed alterations.
Developed Design
Planning Application/Listed Building Consent
Once a final design has been agreed, we will complete the relevant drawn and written detail suitable to submit planning applications as required to the local authority. We will then monitor the progress of an application and liaise with the local authority through to determination. We also prepare and submit applications to private estate committees where required. Listed building consent is required for all works of demolition, alteration or extension to a listed building that affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. Our expertise and knowledge in the renovation of listed buildings enables us to offer a design that combines traditional and modern materials and techniques which are sympathetic to each individual project.
Technical Design
Building Regulations
Once Local Authority permission has been granted, we can then develop the design to provide further detail. We work with various consultants and specialists (structural and drainage engineers, etc.) and incorporate their information into ours to provide a sufficient level of detail to enable the submission of fully detailed plans, specifications, calculations and other supporting details to the either local authority building control, or a private approved inspector to check compliance with the building regulations ‘plan check’. Once checked, the information can be altered if required to obtain approval.
Specification and Tender
We are able to provide a greater level of both drawn and written detail to enable builders/contractors to accurately cost the proposed works. The information for tendering purposes would typically include: A detailed package of construction drawings suitable for the size/scale of the project. A specification document which outlines all of the client, project, site and contractual conditions. A schedule of works/activity schedule document which elementally itemises the works. We would then pre-qualify and invite builders/contractors to tender, and manage a competitive tender process. Once in receipt of tender returns we would analyse the returns, query where necessary and provide recommendations to enable our clients to feel confident in their chosen builder/contractor.
Construction
Once the builder/contractor has been appointed we will prepare a contract and discuss the program and communication protocol. After this, we are able to act as project managers/contract administrator to oversee the project’s practical constructional evolution, interpret the design, and ensure compliance with details and specifications. We also monitor the quality of work and make necessary adjustments as the construction progresses on-site. Our clients have different preferences regarding involvement in the project’s day-to day design decisions, and we can tailor our service and fees accordingly. Some prefer a more hands-on approach, while others prefer regular updates on progress along with photographs if required.
Handover
This involves transferring the completed building to the client. During this process, we will ensure that all aspects of the project have been completed to the required standard, and that any outstanding issues have been addressed. The client will also be given a thorough tour of the building to ensure that they are familiar with all its features and systems. We will make sure all relevant documentation is delivered, such as warranties, operation manuals, and maintenance schedules, to ensure the building’s ongoing performance and longevity.
However, a client may require a more customised service that involves only design and consents or an interior design scheme. In such cases, we are happy to discuss the client’s needs and tailor our fee level accordingly. The above paragraph is a description of our full-service package, but we understand that every project is unique and requires different levels of input.