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| STAGE 1 - Consultation We initially offer a free consultation to our client's to discuss the ideas and requirements of the project. Using our expertise and design skills, we offer practical and creative advice to suggest ways and means of achieving the required solution. |
Typically includes: • Site visit • Concept and design discussion • Planning advice • Practical construction recommendations • Quote |
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| STAGE 2 - Site Assessment & Surveys Having formulated the general principles of the proposal a clear and concise context for the scheme needs to be established. Neighbouring properties, landscapes and topography of the existing site all play an integral role in defining the most appropriate design approach. A Site Assessment contextualizes the site within its surroundings and provides the essential tools for evaluation. |
Typically includes: • Site Location Maps • Planning Analysis • Full Measured Survey Existing Plans & Elevations • Boundary & Topographic Survey • Site Photographs |
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| STAGE 3 - Feasibility Study The feasibility study is the detailed design phase of the project. It is initiated with first draft sketches and culminates in an approved final draft in preparation for the planning stage. The feasibility stage is an organic process and provides a platform for our clients to assess the designs and practicalities of the scheme. The project develops through design discussions and once the proposal meets the desired requirements and expectations a final draft can be approved. The approved feasibility can then be taken forward to the planning application stage. |
Typically includes: • Proposed Plans & Elevations • Proposed site layouts • Design Meetings • Proposal Amendments • Planning Investigations • Scheme Approval for Planning Submission |
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| STAGE 4 - Planning Application Planning Permission is required for the majority of construction projects and is achieved through the Planning Application process. This requires a formal submission to the Local Authority outlining the extent of any proposed alterations or development. All submissions are required to include application forms, drawings, supporting documents or statements and an application fee. There are over twenty different types of applications that can be submitted and therefore the level of information and fees required by the local authority is always determined by the extent and size of the individual proposal. The type and cost of the application is always explained to our clients at the commencement of the project. Once our client has approved a final draft feasibility the planning application can be prepared and submitted to the Local authority for consideration. On receipt of the application the planning department will validate the application and the standard 8 weeks consultation process begins. During the consultation period we track the application and respond to any queries, requests or amendments that are raised. Once the application has been considered by the various local bodies and organizations involved a decision will be issued by the planning department. |
Typically includes: • Completed Application (Via Planning Portal) • Existing and Proposed Plans & Elevations • Site Location Plan • Block Plan • Site Layouts • Design and Access Statement Standard Exclusions: Application Fees |
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| STAGE 5 - Building Regulations On receiving a successful planning approval, steps need to be taken to prepare the scheme for the construction process. All construction programs are regulated and monitored through a series of government approved documents refered to as the Building Regulations. These documents provide details of the minimum building standards required to meet the current regulations and each build proposal is submitted to the local authority Building Control department for reference and approval. Building Regulations Approval is a mandatory requirement under LABC (Local Authority Building Control) legislation and certifies the build quality of the approved scheme. |
Typically includes: • Completed Application (Via Planning Portal) • Proposed Plans & Sections • Construction Details • Building Control Specification Standard Exclusions: Engineers Details Application Fees |
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| STAGE 6 - Project Management Project Management is available during the construction process. It allows the client to employ the architect as an intermediary to monitor the building works andensure that the schedule and quality is to an approved standard. Project management requirements are entirely dependent on the scale of the project. Some smaller projects may not require the need for project management as a competant builder should be more than capable of managing the build program as part of the contract. Larger schemes however may require a significant level of monitoring and involvement. Project management can be a valuable and cost effective measure to safeguard the quality and costs during the build process. |
Typically includes: • Tender Issue and Negotiations • Contract Administration • Scheduled Site Visits • Site Meetings with Contractors • Architects Instructions • Payment Valuations |
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| STAGE 7 - Completion Certificate The Completion Certificate is issued by The LABC department and certifies that the build contract has been completed and approved in accordance with Building Regulations. There may be some further contractural issues to be resolved such as the payment of retentions once a designated snagging period has lapsed but once this certificate has been received the project can essentially be regarded as complete. |
Typically includes: • Construction Completion • Building Control Sign Off • Completion Certificate |
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