Stage 0: Strategic Definition
Pre-appointment: Following your initial enquiry – prior to being appointed – we discuss the project and your requirements. In this initial meeting we will also discuss your budget, and timescales for the project; as well as explaining which services we can provide and which services are appropriate for your project.
Following the initial meeting we will compile a draft fee proposal and a schedule of services which – if agreed – will form the basis of our appointment as your architect. We do ask for our out-station site visit expenses to be covered and a site-visit consultation fee - if site visit is scheduled.
Post appointment: Once appointed we will compile a more detailed project programme and we will formalise the ‘Strategic Brief’ for the project.
Describes the client's requirements in sufficient detail to allow the appointment of consultants. The client's strategic brief is part of an ongoing process to define the client's requirements.
Stage 1: Brief Preparation
At this stage we will discuss with you the brief in detail. Surveys and investigations of the site are carried out at this stage and these may include things such as a the measured building survey. The ‘Initial Brief’ will be defined at this stage.
Stage 2: Concept Design
At this stage we will prepare conceptual design proposals. These may be presented in a variety of formats and mediums including sketches, CAD drawings, physical models or 3 dimensional models. At this stage the design will not be detailed or fixed. Often a number of concept design options will be produced for consideration by the client. This part of the project is normally iterative and workshops or design meetings are held with the client to discuss the concept proposals.
We will discuss the potential for the inclusion of green technologies and sustainable construction methodologies.
Post an initial cost plan, we can assist by obtaining outline costs for the concept proposals from contractors.
The preferred concept design is signed off by the client at the end of this stage, and the ‘Final Brief’ is defined.
Stage 3: Schematic Design
In this phase the details of the project layout will be developed to freeze the final layout, sections & elevations.
Stage 4: Sanctioning Drawings Preparation & Submission
It will include providing any assistance that might be required for obtaining necessary statutory approvals for the project.
Stage 3a: Developed Design
At this stage we will develop the preferred concept design proposal, and this is refined into 2D/3D drawings (plans, sections, and elevations, models). Appointment of consultants, sharing the design, receiving feedback and incorporating the required changes will be made. The form of procurement for the project will be agreed; and the project cost and programme are normally reviewed during this stage. Design changes during this stage are normally tracked and recorded. If possible and appropriate a meeting may be held with the planning authority to understand any concerns regarding the proposals, and any requirements of the planning submission. For construction project Drawings and documents are normally prepared and submitted to the planning authority at the end of this stage of work.
Stage 3b: Value Engineering
Value Engineering (VE) is not a design/peer review or a cost-cutting exercise. VE is a creative, organized effort, which analyzes the requirements of a project for the purpose of achieving the essential functions at the lowest total costs (capital, material, energy, services, maintenance) over the life of the project.
Through a collaborative intensive process between the client, designers & contractors value and economy are improved through the study of alternate design concepts, materials, and methods without compromising the functional and value objectives of the client.
Stage 4: Technical Design / Working Drawings
Under a traditional form of procurement we will prepare detailed and coordinated construction information at this stage of work. This information will normally consist of detailed drawings specifications, and/or a detailed schedule of work. The information will be fully coordinated with all other consultants (such as the Structural , MEP Engineer).
Under a traditional form of procurement the technical design information produced at this stage should enable contractors to price the construction works when these are issued for tender.
Stage 6: Construction
Our role during the construction stage will vary depending on the type of project and how it is procured. Under a traditional procurement route the Contractor is appointed by the Client at this stage and both enter into a contractual agreement. We will advise on the most appropriate form of building contract and prepare the contract documents. The Contractor takes possession of the site so that construction work may commence. Typically at this stage we will also provide Project Management Services over the duration of the planned construction period. Site visits will be documented at regular intervals. We will check to make sure the Works are in accordance with the Design finalized in agreement with the Client.
Stage 7: Handover
Stage 8: In-Use
Sometimes, after a project has completed and is in use, the client may require additional information from the Architect. This situation may occur for example, where a client wishes to carry out further building works or modifications and requires drawings or information from the Architect. We do not normally provide a fee for this stage at the outset of a project but can provide these services on an ‘as-need’ basis if required. At the completion of your project we may also contact you for your feedback which will help us to inform our future projects and working methodology.