Stage 1
Preparation & Brief
During this phase we develop the brief with the client. That entails:
• Visiting the property and doing visual inspections of the condition of the building, services, location etc.
• Discussing client desires, priorities, expectations, budget, intentions around procurement, time frames, logistics,
etc.
• Doing feasibility studies relating to design precedents in the area.
• Checking restrictions in terms of planning permissions and other statutory regulations.
• Advising and coordinating other required appointments, such as measured survey, structural engineer.
• Populating a client requirement schedule. This will determine specific requirements the client would like to have included in the design, i.e. air conditioning, underfloor heating, storage, specific specialist items, types of doors or fittings etc.
Stage 2
Concept Design
We integrate the information gathered in Stage 1 into design intent sketches. These take the form of hand drawn plans and elevations (as required) to demonstrate our proposals for discussion. The designs can be carried out using sales plans, while awaiting a measured survey.
Stage 3
Spatial Coordination / Planning
Once an agreed Concept Design is determined this is transposed using the measured survey information into computer aided drawings to ensure space standards are met. All drawings are prepared with the Stage 4 technical requirements in mind. These drawings are reviewed before commencing with Stage 4. Interior design elements are explored and integrated in principle.
Stage 3 drawings are also used to submit applications for statuotory approval (Planning, Listed Building, Prior approvals etc) if required. We coordinate the application forms, necessary design statements, liason with relevant council officers, site visits, drawing revisions etc in order to obtain approval.
Stage 4
Technical Design & Tender
Drawings are developed into a set of information suitable for construction and building control approval. Information from other consultants, such as Structural Engineers or Mechanical consultants are integrated at this stage. We also produce a written scope of works / pricing document to be used for a Tender process. Drawings can include:
• general arrangement plans, elevations, sections
• details for roof, wall and floor construction,
• lighting and power layouts,
• internal room elevations,
• schedules for fittings,
• joinery details
For the tender, we can suggest suitable contractors for the project. We issue the necessary drawings and pricing document which forms the basis on which the competitive tender is carried out.
Upon return of prices, we review each submission for any exclusions, substantiations or substitutions and provide a report with the results. We then facilitate
interviews if necessary to assist the client in appointing a suitable contractor.
Depending on your building, you may need assistance with other permissions such as: party wall agreements or license approval. We can coordinate these processes on hourly rates.
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Stage 5
Construction
The following services are included (this list is not exhaustive):
• inspecting the works on site and notifying the builder of any defects,
• keeping records of progress,
• distributing regular reports,
• dealing with queries and issuing of information to the builder
• handling changes and unforeseen elements.
• issuing certificates of completion/non completion as required
• checking valuations
• contract administration
• handling building control queries
