our process

The first step is an initial consultation to understand our client’s wishes. During this stage. We work to refine the project brief, discussing alternative options and ensuring that all requirements are fully understood and included. This enables us to produce a formal fee proposal, and indicate if other consultants may be needed.

Once fees are agreed, we will commission an external professional surveyor on your behalf to carry out a measured survey of the site & buildings. This measured survey is a crucial part of the design process, giving the project a strong base to start from.

Once we have the measured survey, we can start designing. Concept design starts with a meeting between the Client and Project Architect to clarify any remaining questions. During this stage, we develop initial design ideas as floor plans and concept images, based on the brief and any site analysis research that we have conducted. We work collaboratively to ensure that client’s feedback is incorporated into the final design and that the proposed solution meets all needs and aspirations.

Once we have agreed on the concept design and key layouts, we will move on to the developed design stage. This is where we start to see the project come to life with elevation drawings, potential 3D views and images. At this stage, we prepare and submit a planning or listed building consent application, liaising with the local planning authority and ensuring that all necessary documents and information are provided.

During RIBA Stage 4, also known as Technical Design, our focus is on turning the approved scheme into technical drawings and specifications for construction. This stage involves adding all the detail of the project, where we ensure that the detailed design is compliant with building regulations and industry standards. By the end of Stage 4, we have a detailed set of drawings and specifications ready for construction and costing, ensuring that everyone involved in the project knows exactly what is needed.

RIBA Stage 5 is where the project starts to take shape on site and the physical construction work begins. Our role during this stage is to act as trusted professional advisors, overseeing the whole process to ensure quality is maintained and costs are controlled. We ensure that construction runs smoothly, efficiently and with few surprises. Drawing on our substantial technical expertise and years of experience we carefully manage contracts and cash flow, ensuring the initial vision of quality becomes reality.

During the final stages we focus on project delivery and client support. We ensure that the completed project meets expectations, overseeing inspections, testing, and commissioning. We facilitate the handover process and provide clients with all necessary documentation. In Stage 7, we will continue to support clients as they occupy the building, offering post-occupancy evaluations and ongoing maintenance. Our goal is always to ensure that projects are completed to high standards and continue to meet client needs long-term.