Our Process

Preparation & Brief

On your initial consultation a site visit and meeting helps to better understand the site its context

and  the building making use of site sketches to digest ideas.  Understanding what you need from the project and your aspirations forms a key part in the brief development. But don’t worry if need help with your ideas that’s where we come in and exploration in the concept stage which will help to distill different ideas.

Following appointment we will conduct a measured survey of the property, to produce the existing drawings from which the proposed information can be developed. Other site survey’s may be required such as topographical surveys.

Concept Design

During this stage we will look at different option layouts, as well as forms and material choices.

This allows client’s to look at options they may not have otherwise considered and conclude on a design that will be progressed to  the next stage developed design.

We can also provide feasibility reports at this early stage in the project that will include estimate build costs for the concept options, (provided by external consultants whom we work with). It will also include site constraints, planning constraints and an Indicative programme of works.

Where appropriate  following initial internal desktop studies and following the conclusion of the concept stage the project can be issued for ‘pre-application advice’ from the local authority, this will help to give some guidance on the application as well as any other potential to the site, it can also help indicate if any other specialist consultants that may be required on the project.

Developed Design & Spatial Coordination

At this point in the project this is a time to refine the details of the design, and develop the documentation to accompany the application, any changes to the application may require a new application. All planning application are decided by the local authority.

The information submitted can include drawings, perspectives and 3D views and visualisations  to help to best communicate the proposals. The Planning Application is submitted on your behalf and managed through the planning process, where we will communicate and provide information required by the appointed case officer. Following decision outcome the project can progress to technical design.

Technical Design

The project is then developed through technical design providing the technical information and drawings along with inputs from all consultants and design team to provide a pack of information for building control to be submitted for full/conditional approval. Planning Conditions will also need to be reviewed and satisfied where required before site commencement.

This information along with you agreed samples and finishes, will submitted for competitive tender where contractors can provide estimates for the project. Your preferred contractor will be invited to finalise and agree the costs and contract for the project.

Construction

At construction our involvement can be adjusted to suit the project requirements from construction drawings to contract administration, site visits and inspections to ensure work completed are in line with the information and drawings. Provision of additional information required on site.

Handover & Close Out

Once the construction has been completed the inspection has been completed, the client will be provided with a Building Control Certificate and Services Certification.

Following the agreed contractual defects period a contractor client meeting is arranged to close the contract where all obligations have been fulfilled and that all outstanding planning conditions have been satisfied. A final record issue of the drawings will be provided to capture any changes that occurred during the construction process.