What is the architectural design process?

We have set out the process we follow below to give you an idea of what to expect with a building project. We will guide you through each step and believe good communication is key to delivering a successful project.

 

A lot projects are often not planned well enough from the outset which therefore leads to stress, escalating costs and time delays. Our process follows the RIBA Plan of Work and looks to tackle key issues with thorough planning and helpful guidance.

 

RIBA Stage 1 - Preparation, Briefing & Feasibility

 

To begin with we will discuss and formalise your brief and then we organise a measured survey of the property. This is required so that we have a set of accurate existing drawings to work from.

 

Following this we will produce an initial feasibility study which will include reviewing your site, developing your brief, advising on any additional surveys & consultants required and showing you what might be possible. We will answer key questions with regard to ballpark costs and timescales, thus fully preparing you for the design phase.

 

RIBA Stage 2 - Concept Design

 

This step builds on the feasibility work done in Stage 1. We have confirmed what is important to you and what you want out of the project. We now develop this into a full project design, looking at internal spaces and external aesthetics.

 

It is a great opportunity to combine your desires with our experience to create a unique design suited to you. Depending on the nature of the project, we may advise on a pre-application to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) at this stage, to help provide guidance ready for Stage 3.

 

RIBA Stage 3 - Planning Permission

 

With our developed design we complete a full package of planning drawings as well as supplementary design documents. We will complete all the necessary applications and submit this to the LPA on your behalf to obtain planning permission. We have been very successful with previous projects and try to work with the Local Authority to overcome any hurdles.

 

RIBA Stage 4 - Technical Design & Building Regulations

 

Once planning permission has been granted we will develop the technical design of the project, liaising with other consultants as necessary such as Structural Engineers. We will use these technical drawings to submit a Building Regulation application on your behalf.

 

The drawings can then be used to get a full tender (fixed cost) from a contractor for your project. You may have someone in mind you want to approach or we can tender the project to several contractors to acquire competitive prices.

 

This is an important part of the process, and should not be taken lightly. Many times we’ve heard about projects where a cheap “quote” was produced, and then the contractor has kept increasing prices through the build.

 

RIBA Stage 5 - Construction

 

Once a price has been agreed we can provide on-site project management and contract administration. This includes regular meetings and site visits as well as liaising with the contractor on a daily basis, effective financial control and reviewing quality of workmanship. This should deliver a successful project that is on time and on budget.

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RIBA Stage 6 - Handover

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At the end of the project we will check for any defects (snags) and make sure the project is handed back to the client in the right way.

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