The Services we offer
Firstly we meet you at your property to discuss the project and agree the brief or level of service required whether simply a consultation or partial services- such as sketch designs with a site development appraisal, or we can co-ordinate a scheme from preliminary sketches right through to project completion. We offer a full range of professional services from preliminary design, feasibility studies & detailed site appraisal & reports through to submission of a planning application or building regulations or other statutory applications or contract administration and administration of the completion of the build. The services we provide are generally as described in the RIBA Plan of Work.
Architects are skilled at problem solving and resolving complex design issues. We work closely with our clients to deliver sustainable buildings & solutions that suit each client. Early meetings and discussions about a design project are a vital part of the design process to avoid costly delays or abortive work and we always develop a positive and open working relationship with our clients and others involved so that together we achieve the best solutions and particularly so that clients feel relaxed working with us. We are always keen to meet any prospective clients who may consider appointing an architect or simply want some informal advice.
Initial Consultation
Our initial discussions will clarify the project brief setting out the particulars and services required as recorded in a letter of appointment and RIBA Fee Proposal for your consideration explained in accordance with the RIBA Plan of Work and setting out the basis of our agreement.
Measured Survey & Preliminary Design
To enable us to prepare accurate drawings of your proposals we will prepare drawings of the existing building based on a Topographical Land Survey as conducted by a local Land Surveyor. It is essential to have the most accurate information to work from. Preliminary drawings (typically plans, sections & elevations) form the basis of the project and are developed from the survey and used as the basis for design discussions and developing your proposals. The design drawings can be used at this stage to provide budget cost forecasts, or as a basis for preliminary discussions with a contractor or planning officer if required.
Planning
When a planning application is required we will develop presentation drawings and submit a planning application on your behalf to the Local Planning Authority. We maintain regular contact with the appointed case officer as the planning application is processed so that we can quickly deal with any issues that may arise. There is a statutory determination period of 8 weeks after submission and the consent is valid for three years from the date of approval. If your property is sited in a Conservation Area or is a Listed Building you will require Conservation Area and or Listed Building Consent requiring additional drawings and supporting documentation. This is rather more detailed work than a typical planning application but we regularly deal with such applications.
Building Regulations
Before you can legally start construction it is usually necessary to submit a Building Notice (with simple works) or submit a Full Plans Application to obtain Building Regulations & Acts Approval from the Local Authority Building Control Department who will check your proposals are compliant with current technical standards and issue approvals accordingly. A Building Control Inspector will visit your project periodically to agree the works are in accordance with the Approved drawings and Approved Documents. We can prepare an application for you comprising detailed drawings and construction notes, which for most residential projects is the minimum level of design and construction information for a competent builder to price the works.
Working Drawings
We can provide a fully detailed or partial working drawings service for clients so that bespoke or critical components are properly detailed where required during the course of construction.
Contract Administration
You will need to decide before you approach a contractor whether or not you need an Architect to administer your construction contract for you. Building contracts can then be negotiated with a preferred contractor or competitively tendered. We can provide you with advice and administer tender procedures for you.
Site / Contract Administration
We can administrate your building contract for you, attend regular site meetings and certify work, or we can just attend meetings at key stages where you feel that you need help or you can just call on us when you need our services by prior negotiation.
Other Services
Party Wall Surveyor
If your building is in close proximity to a neighbouring property boundary you will probably be required to issue notices and agree a Party Wall Award under the Party Wall Act 1996. We can advise you on the appointment of a Party Wall Surveyor.
Structural Engineer
We can advise you on the appointment of a local Structural Engineer whose drawings details and calculations are required to satisfy Building Control.
Energy Assessor
Energy assessments, SAPS energy calculations and CSH (Code for Sustainable Homes) are nationally recognized methods for rating and certifying the performance of new (or existing homes) to meet the requirements of Part L of the building regulations. We can advise you on the appointment of a suitable energy assessor to advise and prepare suitable certification for the project as required by the BCO.
Planning Consultant
Occasionally we may need to advise clients to appoint a planning consultant where we need additional input by a specialist Planning Consultant. We work with experienced local Planning Consultants and will advise on their appointment
CDM Coordinator
The CDM (Construction Design Management) 2007 Act cover the health and safety issues concerning building projects under construction. We can advise on the appointment of a CDM Coordinator.
A link to the RIBA for background information about our services: