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Your Expectations
If you haven’t worked with an architect before the process can seem quite confusing but it doesn’t have to be. We have done this many times before and there is a proven sequence that we follow for every project.
We will look after you and guide you through each stage so that you know well in advance what decisions you will need to make. This will reduce the stress on you and should ensure you enjoy the whole experience.
We work in collaboration with you, other consultants and contractors that we have known for many years. Whilst we remain the design lead and ensure the design integrity is maintained, we also know the value of a good team and communication.
How we work with you:
1 Design
Once appointed we will visit you to review your requirements and get a feel for how you live and what you are hoping to achieve, before preparing some initial design ideas.
1A Initial Meeting
We will meet you at your home and discuss your requirements and the reasons for your project. We will listen carefully and ask questions to ensure we understand your needs.
1B Survey
We then obtain a quotation for a measured survey of your property and the surrounding context so that we have accurate digital information before beginning any design.
1C Brief
We will review your Brief and list out your requirements to ensure that we capture everything you require in the design.
1D Concept Design
Concept design ideas and sketch layout options are prepared to make sure the relationships between the different spaces flow well.
2 Planning
The design layouts and elevations are prepared and often a 3D computer model is made. The proposals are finalised and a planning application is submitted.
2A – Design Development
We begin to firm up the floor plans and how the building will look from the outside. Physical samples of the materials and finishes are obtained.
2B - Modelling
We can also provide a detailed 3D digital model of the design that you are able to ‘walk around’.
2C – Costs
For larger projects we recommend a Cost consultant be appointed at this stage. They will prepare a Budget cost plan so that you can understand the total projected costs for the project.
2D - Planning Application
We have worked on many Grade I listed heritage buildings and in sensitive rural and Green Belt planning areas and are very experienced and fully conversant in these areas.
3 Technical
The construction details and specifications are prepared, and the Building Regulations application is submitted.
3A – Technical - Building Regulations
We prepare detailed drawings to show how the project is to be constructed and to ensure the work complies with the Building Regulations. A structural engineer and building services consultant are appointed and we co-ordinate their design work to ensure the interior design is clean and tidy.
All products that we specify on your project will be proven technologies, many with independent test data behind them, and warranties or guarantees.
3B – Technical – Construction Information
A written Specification or Schedule of Works is prepared that describes the products to be used and how they should be installed. Specialist elements are also designed including any feature staircase and quotations are obtained for new windows and external doors.
The project is then sent to contractors to obtain their tender prices for building the project.
4 Construction
During the construction stage we are there to look after you and ensure the design is built correctly.
4A - Construction
We attend regular site meetings to ensure the work is in accordance with the design. These meetings are when any new issues are discussed and resolved. Finances are also reviewed and the contractor will issue a Valuation requesting payment that we look over and if satisfied we will issue you with a Payment Certificate so that you know you can pay the invoice.
We pride ourselves on our involvement during the construction stage and are not worried about getting our boots dirty if required.
Once you have occupied, we are always available if any issues arise.
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