Process
from planning to build
overview
The process for designing, planning and building a house extension can be complex and time consuming. Our clear and simple process is broken down into four stages to make it as quick, efficient and cost effective for you as possible.
stage 1
concept & planning
We will analyse your house, it’s surroundings and your requirements and create three conceptual designs to inspire you, maximise the potential of your home and show you options that you may not have considered.
We will then meet with you to present the proposals and discuss in detail. The designs will be modelled using 3D software and sent to you so you can fully explore the options in 3D at home on tablet, phone or PC.
The benefit of this over traditional 2D drawings is that you can ‘walk round’ the house and get a much better feel for the space than you would with simple 2D drawings. Once we have agreed the principles of the design, we develop this further into a comprehensive design to be submitted for Planning Permission. After submitting the application, we liaise closely with the Local Authority until a decision is made.
stage 2
technical design & spec
Once we have planning approval in place we will focus on preparing a package of information suitable for a builder to quote and work from. We organise other consultants, such as structural engineers, and prepare technical drawings for building warrant. We will also prepare a written schedule of works describing the works to be done. This information then forms part of a ‘tender’ package which contractors will be invited to quote from.
stage 3
building quotes
In order to obtain the best, most competitive quotes for your building work we have a simple but thorough system for managing the tender process. We can suggest potential contractors and help you choose which you would like to invite to quote for the work. We then send them the information and liaise with them to ensure they provide a fixed quote within the agreed time. Once returned, we analyse the quotations, present them to you in an easily digestible format and help you select the best option for your project.
stage 4
build
Once on site, we can provide varying degrees of project management to help you control the works, assist the contractor and ensure a fantastic final product. As every project, client and contractor is different, we tailor this service to your needs and help you select the right level of support for your project
fees
How much will an architect cost?
We understand that our clients want to know how much our services will cost so they can budget for their project. However, as every project is completely different, tailored fee proposals are required for every project.
More about costs & fees
Our policy for architectural fees is that we like to keep things simple, efficient and transparent and we work hard to minimise costs for our clients.
We offer home consultations for clients looking to discuss what might be possible for their home or for those who know what they want and are looking for an architect to help them make it a reality! Having led many projects from initial ideas to completion of building work, we know exactly what it takes to make projects successful.
After visiting you and discussing your project we will provide a written fee proposal, broken down into four stages. The proposal will be based on the time we believe will be needed to spend on the project to provide you with, not only the highest standard of drawings and information, but also with beautiful, functional design options that you can clearly visualise and fully understand in order to make informed choices.
By investing in the design process at an early stage, you and your home will benefit from it for years to come.
The figures below shows the range of time required for the design of house extensions, loft conversions and renovation projects. Each project will be assessed based on it’s size, location and difficulty, then a fee proposal provided for consideration.