PROCESS & SURVEY

WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

An initial consultation (free of charge) to discuss your requirements.

All projects go through more or less the same process, starting with the initial briefing; through to design development; preparing documentation for planning application where required; producing technical drawings for building regulations and construction purposes; tendering and finally construction and handover.

The whole process is broken down into stages and we can do as much or as little as required.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE INITIAL FREE CONSULTATION?

We meet with the prospective client and during this initial meeting, we endeavour to understand their thoughts, ideas, specific requirements and main objectives of the project. If appropriate, we would walk the project with you and take photographs during this initial visit.

We may prepare freehand sketch ideas to illustrate what we think you are expecting from this work.

If you are unsure whether to extend your existing home, move house or completely demolish the property and start again, we can help you come to the conclusion that is best for you with the advice and experience of many years and similar situations.

This consultation is free of charge.

We will develop the brief and once this is agreed with you, we will prepare a detailed fee proposal. This quotation will detail each stage of the services we offer, any disbursements and our fee. We will require written instructions for us to proceed.

HOW TO GET THE BRIEF RIGHT

The success of a project depends on the quality of the brief which is a team effort between the client and us.

We will need to know:

• The budget (and VAT).
• The aims and objectives.
• The design style you favour: are you looking for a design in keeping with the existing building? Do you want a contemporary or high-tech design glass and steel?
• Are you concerned about having a sustainable or ecological design?
• The reasons for embarking on this building project: what activities are intended for it?
• The overall expectations: what do you hope to achieve by this project – more space, more light, variety of uses, and greater flexibility, added value to the property.

At the initial meetings, we will listen carefully to your aims and objectives to create a brief, addressing not only design aesthetics but also the function of the building.

ABOUT THE SURVEY

This involves a measure of the building structure and part or all of the grounds (topographical). All floor plans, all elevations and sections as required. We would either undertake this element or obtain a quote from a specialist surveying company for the client to appoint.

This data will be used to prepare CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drawings of the existing structure, the floor plans, site plan (part or whole), sections through the building and all the elevations in readiness for the next stage.