Architect

Architecture

Architect Bedford

Architect London

Planning Application

Building Regulations

Local

Experienced

Competitive

Fees

Building Reuse

Community

Fast-Track

High Rise

Interiors

Interior Design

Landscape & Public Realm

Masterplanning

Pre-fab

Historic buildings

Sustainability

Workspace

Urban Design

Homes

Mixed-Use

Heritage and adaptation

Extensions

Refurbishments

Private houses

Bespoke houses

A successful project, whether it is a small-scale operation such as a house extension, or a major building programme, depends upon the project team following a logical and well-considered critical path. This starts with initial discussions, briefings and information gathering and ends with the final decorations and finishes touches. The process follows the following sequential work stages: 

Stage 1 – Project inception 

Formulation of the clients brief, advising on time-scales, likely building costs, local authority statutory conditions, the need to engage specialist consultants / formation of the project team. 

Stage 2 – Concept design 

Preparation of outline design proposals in response to the client’s brief. 

Stage 3 – Design development 

Developing the design scheme to a more detailed level: preparing a set of drawings, diagrams and all relevant documentation in order to make a planning application (where applicable). Monitoring of the planning application through to the local authority’s determination. 

Stage 4 – Technical design 

Liaison with structural engineers and any other specialist consultants. Preparation of a full set of detailed construction drawings, diagrams, specifications, schedules etc. in order to facilitate a ‘contract tender’ or ‘a ‘contract negotiation process’. Submission of all relevant technical information to an ‘Approved Building Inspector’ or to the local authority for ‘Building Regulations Approval’. 

Monitoring of the ‘contract tender’ or the ‘contract negotiation process’ to arrive at an agreed contract sum. Review of project budget and programme. 

Stage 5 – Construction phase 

Liaising with the structural engineers and all other relevant specialist consultants and to generally prepare the project for the building works to commence on site. Preparation of contract documentation. Agreeing the building works programme with the contractor and all nominated sub-contractors. General administration and over-seeing of the building works on a regular basis throughout the ‘construction phase’. Generally monitoring the progress of the building works and reporting back to the clients on all relevant matters, including regular cost updates. 

Stage 6 – Project completion 

Overseeing the final stages of the building and fitting-out works. Liaising with the clients, building contractors, specialist sub-contractors and suppliers. Arranging the ‘hand-over’ of the completed scheme to the clients for their beneficial occupation. Identifying any latent defects and instructing the building contractor to carry-out any remedial works that may be necessary. 

Resolving the final building costs and agreeing these costs with both client and contractor. 

Stage 7 – Post contract monitoring 

When a project is completed and the client is in occupation, we are sometimes asked to monitor the performance of the building and to advise on any further modifications and minor adjustments. In these instances, we are happy to assist in the post contract evaluation of the project.