Developments
The external spaces around buildings are just as important as the internal spaces, especially for residential projects where contemporary open-plan design blurs the boundaries between inside and outside. We are often asked to design gardens, patios, soft and hard landscaping, garden rooms (gyms, offices, overnight annexes), external entertainment areas, pergolas, gazebos, boundary walls, solar panel structures, driveways, and external lighting design.
We also work with developers to create communal gardens, roof terraces, and balconies for new build developments, ensuring every outdoor space is functional, visually appealing, and complements the architectural design.
STAGE 1 – PLANNING APPLICATION (RIBA STAGES 0 – 3)
Some projects may not require Planning Approval and we will advise on this at the initial free consultation. The design process commences with us visiting the property to undertake a detailed measured survey followed by us producing detailed existing drawings. At this point we invite the client into our office for a design meeting to discuss the project in detail and identify the options available, including associated build costs. We then proceed to produce proposed design drawings based on the preferred option suitable for a Planning Application. Our Stage 1 fee includes submitting and monitoring the Planning Application and we keep the client updated up to the Decision Date including any revisions that may be requested by the planning officer. We also speak in support of the Planning Application at Parish and Planning Committee level if required.
STAGE 2 – DETAILED DESIGN / CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (RIBA WORK STAGE 4)
This is a fundamental stage which is required for all projects whereby we produce detailed construction drawings, services layouts and project specific specifications for all items with quantities suitable for obtaining accurate prices for construction and submission of a Building Regulations Application. We act as Principal designer for all our projects to achieve compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022. This stage may require the input of a Structural Engineer depending on the preferred option, we will advise on this at the initial consultation and design meeting. We can introduce the project to Structural Engineers that we work with. Alternatively, clients are welcome to seek quotes elsewhere if they wish. Detailed information for Discharge of Planning Conditions are normally dealt with at this stage which is project specific.
STAGE 3 – TENDER STAGE / BUILDING CONTRACTS (RIBA WORK STAGE 4+)
This is an optional stage whereby we identify 3 x suitable contractors for the project and issue the Stage 2-Detailed Drawing package to them for pricing. We provide them with four weeks to produce their estimates. They will visit the property to view and discuss the project further with the client. We collate the estimates on behalf of the client, review them and provide our analysis of each estimate with our suggestion for the preferred estimate.
STAGE 4 – CONSTRUCTION / PROJECT MANAGEMENT (RIBA WORK STAGES 5 – 6)
This is an optional stage whereby we offer our support to the client and the appointed contractor either in the form of site visits or as support on the phone/email at a pre-agreed hourly rate. Therefore, the client has the option to use our support during construction as and when required.