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We have listed the stages of a project and what we as architects do behind the scenes for you, letting you enjoy the process whilst still feeling fully involved, engaged and connected to the final build.

FIRST STEP

The first step is helping you determine what it is that you want to achieve and what is the best means of getting there.

Behind the scenes, we help develop a Business Case for feasible options including reviews of the project risks and project budget. We undertake Site Appraisals and take into account Planning considerations. If the project is determined as viable, we move to the next stage.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

This part of the process involves meeting you and getting to know you. We want to understand your needs and drivers. We want to understand what it is you want, what you don’t want. We want to know as much about you and your partner/family/colleagues so we can design the right project for you! We will look around and survey every part of your site so we can get an understanding and feel for it. If there is an existing house, we will explore every inch of it. If it is a muddy field, we will investigate and get a feel for it, working out where the sun rises and sets and absorb the surroundings. We may even start to bounce around some ideas with you and we will also discuss initial costs. Together we will start to agree a plan of action and a way forward.

Behind the scenes we will develop a Project Brief including project outcomes, sustainability outcomes, quality aspirations and spatial requirements. We undertake Feasibility Studies, source Site Information including Site Surveys, agree Project Budget, prepare a Project Programme and Project Execution Plan. We source pre-application Planning Advice and collate initial Health & Safety Pre-Construction Information.

STARTING THE DESIGN

This is the stage that we put all the information we have gathered from our initial discussions and meetings on to paper. We begin the sketch designs. We sketch by hand, use computerised 2D drawings, and bring these to life by modelling in 3D and even using cardboard models. We put together mood boards and really think about your space, and even come up with ideas for furniture. This stage involves lots of discussions with you to make sure you are happy with what we are doing and that we are on the right track. During this stage we also think about cost, time, sustainability, and start to think about planning.

Behind the scenes we prepare an Architectural Concept incorporating Strategic Engineering requirements and aligned to Cost Plan, Project Strategies and Outline Specification. We undertake Design Reviews with you and prepare a stage Design Programme. We obtain pre-application Planning Advice, agree a route to Building Regulations compliance, submit an outline Planning Application if required and design with budget in mind.  

PLANNING

Before submitting the planning application, we start to drill down into the detail of the drawings and ensure everything is in place and ensure your build will be functional as well as beautiful. We carefully put together the planning application, applying for any consent as required. Depending on the complexity, we may use the help of a planning consultant to help get it over the line. Planning can take weeks or months depending on the council area and the specific project application. We will take this process off your hands and keep you updated along the way.

Behind the scenes we ensure the architectural and engineering information is Spatially Coordinated by undertaking Design Studies, Engineering Analysis and advise on Cost Exercises. We prepare stage Design Programmes, and review design against Building Regulations before preparing and submitting the Planning Application.

MORE DETAILED DESIGN

Once planning has been approved, this is when we gather together all the information needed to build your project. We prepare detailed technical drawings and submit these to Building Control. We prepare tender package which includes everything a builder needs to know to price and build the project. At this stage we might discuss things like materials to use, electrics and plumbing and interior design with you. We keep talking and listening to you, ensuring you are happy at each step of the way.

Behind the scenes we prepare and coordinate design team Building Systems information and integrate specialist subcontractor Building Systems information. We submit Building Regulations Application, prepare Health &Safety Plans and discharge pre-commencement Planning Conditions.

APPOINTING THE BUILDER

At this stage you have the option to take our design and undertake a self-build. Alternatively we can send out the tender package to a list of recommended builders to get a price. We will discuss the returned tender figures with you, and also ensure the builder can build to the quality we expect. Once the builder has been chosen, they will then be appointed.

Behind the scenes, we will manage the entire tender process. We send out the tender package and ensure the prices and any additional quality information is returned by a specific date and time. We will answer any queries that arise in this process. The returned tender information is assessed. We will prepare abuilding contract once a builder is chosen.

THE BUILD STAGE

This stage is when works start on site. We try to take the stress out of the build process as much as possible, letting you enjoy seeing your vision coming to life. We will manage your project on site and check on progress, assess on quality of work, assist in keeping track of spend and cost ,ensure the build is progressing as planned. We will of course give you regular updates through phone calls and conversations, photographs, videos and go on joint site visits together. We will answer any questions you have at any time. You and the builder can discuss items freely with the comfort of knowing that no actions can be taken without the instruction of the Architect.

Once the builder has finished and we are happy that everything has been done to our satisfaction, we provide a Practical Completion Certificate and you are free to move in!

Behind the scenes, we finalise Site Logistics. We monitor progress against Construction Programme and continually inspect for Construction Quality. We will resolve Site Queries and prepare Building handover file. We will also carry out the Construction Phase Plan and ensure the build complies with Planning Conditions related to construction.

HANDOVER

Once you’ve moved in and started to use your build, it is normal that approximately a year is spent sorting out any snags and fixing loose ends. We still work closely with you at this stage and can help resolve any issues and loose ends with the builder. We make this process as easy as possible for you, letting you enjoy your final project.

Behind the scenes we hand over the building in line with Plan for Use Strategy. We undertake review of Project Performance and take note of any defects.

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