Your Project
Do I need an Architect?
The role of an architect is to guide clients through the process of design and construction. Our job is to explore all the design possibilities for your project to get you the best possible solution for your needs and budget.
We support all stages of the build, from design and planning matters to construction works, dealing with unforeseen problems on site and ensuring the project is completed to a high standard and within the agreed time frame.
Do I need planning permission?
The need for planning permission depends on the size and location of the build and the local authority. We have extensive experience of working with planning authorities to achieve the best results possible and a track record of successful applications.
What are the key stages of the project?
We follow the RIBA outline plan of work covering all the key stages of a project, from feasibility to design, tendering and construction. A detailed explanation of the key stages can be found here.
Which stages of the project can you help us with?
Most commonly clients ask us to work with them through all the stages of their build from start to finish. We believe this provides the best outcome and best value for money. It enables us to react to unforeseen matters on site and to provide solutions. Overall, it ensurses adherance to design and drawings and cost control.
Sometimes we help clients with feasibility studies or up to the planning stage, working with them on the brief, providing detailed drawings and managing the submission of plans to the planning authority and managing negotiations and revisions if needed. Sometimes the clients may choose to be their own project managers and we can take drawings up to construction and building control approval stage.
What other consultants may be nessecary for the build?
Over and above the services of an architect, other specialists may be needed:
• structural engineers if there are extensive structural alterations
• party wall consultants where there are adjoining neighbours with shared walls and fences
• some projects may require a mechanical and electrical engineer, depending on the requirements of the client
• quantity surveyors may also be used in certain situatations for costings, outline or detailed
We are able to advise on the appointment of these specialists if required.
How do you approach sustainability?
We are happy to advise clients on suitable strategies to create energy efficient buildings with a low carbon footprint.
How much will it cost?
There are a number of ways to structure the fees:
• time based charges (often at early stages of the project until the exact scope and budget of the work is defined)
• a lump sum(s) fee agreement when the exact scope of works is clearly defined
• a quoted percentage of the final cost of the building work (most commonly used when architects are project managing the whole build process)
• another agreed basis
Do I have to pay for an initial consultation?
We are happy to discuss projects as part of an hour long initial consultation for free. Subsequent work, including drawings, can be agreed as discussed above.