We gather the information necessary to begin design and avoid trouble along the way. The services include: brief, program & budget development, advise on the statutory consents, advise on the requirement for outside consultants, site research, organization of site survey, building survey, conservation research, investigation of planning restrictions, zonings, etc. With the analysis and reflection this research, we explore broad alternatives in design and construction, and establish the general arrangement of spaces, scale, character and over all appearance. Drawings typically range from diagrammatic to sketchy. Initial presentation meetings are held with the client and feedback is encouraged and taken on board.

Based on the results of the schematic design, we develop the design with more specific analysis of form, material, products, detail, etc. Drawings are typically larger and more accurately drafted in this stage. A number of specific products may be researched and selected. Square footage is analysed and a cost estimate sought. Design Development meetings are held with the client and feedback is sought and taken on board. Based on the approval, we prepare the necessary documents required for the planning application. These include drawings, conservation reports, method statements, notices, etc. We monitor the application during the permission period and answer queries from the local authority as they arise.

On receipt of the consents, we prepare the necessary drawings, specifications and other documents needed by the contractor to price and build the project. We advise on the most appropriate technological and construction techniques. We believe in completing a fully comprehensive set of drawings and documents before going on site in order to avoid budget surprises during the work itself. Based on the approval of the Construction Documents Phase, we prepare the necessary drawings, other documents and applications legally required for fire safety certification, building regulations compliance, planning permission compliance, health & safety compliance, disabled access compliance, etc.

Competitive bids are solicited from a number of selected approved contractors based on the detailed Construction Documents. The client has the option of accepting one of the bids as given, or negotiating a modified bid with one of the bidders. On conclusion of this stage, we facilitate a building contract between the client and the selected contractor. Throughout the course of construction, we visit the site regularly to ensure progress, quality, workmanship, execution is in line with the contract documentation. We administer the building contract, chair and minute site meetings, answer questions, communicate and solve potential problems, certify payments, completion, snagging, defects liability, manuals and certificates of compliance.