Services
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We would love to hear from you about any
project you have in mind
"MY FOCUS IS DELIVERING AN INSPIRING, BESPOKE, CREATIVE DESIGN FOR YOUR HOME, WITHIN YOUR BUDGET AND PROGRAMME."
We have experience in residential new build, refurbishment and extensions with project contract value ranging from £350,000 to £1.5m. Our focus is carefully crafted, bespoke projects – from new build housing, residential refurbishments and extensions, interiors and studios.
"We exceed the standard architectural service by running all projects from concept to completion on site, including lighting, interior finishes and joinery design, as we believe a holistic approach is key to deliver a beautiful home."
We have built up a fantastic network of suppliers, contractors and consultants that we collaborate and work with. Designing and realising a home is a team effort. We instil sustainable solutions, strategies and products to our design – to improve the energy efficiency of your home and minimise the impact on our planet.
We work to the RIBA Plan of Works from Stage 1 concept design to Stage 6 works on site and handover, as noted.
Through detailed consultation to establish your needs we can offer fresh, innovative ideas to maximise the design potential of your project. We take time and care to explain, advise and submit applications for statutory approvals, such as Planning and Building Control to enable a start on site as soon as possible.
We work closely with all members of the design team and contractor to coordinate every detail of the process. We manage the project on site under a JCT or RIBA contract to ensure design quality, cost and programme are carefully monitored to deliver your built project to a very high standard.
We provide a high quality of design and service to our clients whilst offering excellent value for money. We are not VAT registered.
Please click through reviews for client references.
Our 6 Stage Approach
RIBA Stage 0 / 1
Preparation and Brief
This is the most important part of the project and where the architect can add the most value. The architect will undertake some preliminary appraisals to assess the options and feasibility of the project. This can range from a sketch design solution to a full feasibility study and will enable you to decide on the best way forward. They will identify the need for any approvals and other consultants, most commonly a structural engineer.
RIBA Stage 2
Concept Design
Using the initial project brief the architect will develop outline proposals. An architect will present a number of initial concepts for you to choose from. They will also liaise with local planners as a priority. The final design brief should reflect your aspirations and provide you with a home that adds value and improves your quality of life.
RIBA Stage 3
Developed Design
The architect will spend more time at this stage transforming ideas into something that can be built. This includes coordinating the work of other consultants into the designs. Once agreed, between you, the design proposals will then be submitted for planning approval, if required.
RIBA Stage 4
Technical Design
The architect will now prepare the technical drawings and a specification and/or a schedule of works that will be used to price the tender and construct the building. The architect can then invite and appraise tenders from builders and administer the building contract on your behalf.
OPTION STAGE 4B
Interior Detailing
The interior finishes, joinery and lighting design make a home. Integration of the design of these from the outset through to detail design and specification is really important to make the house tailor made to you. I offer this additional service and the scope can vary to what you need. All projects shown the interior design is by Sophie Bates Architects.
RIBA Stage 5
Construction
Throughout the construction phase the architect will administer your contract with the builder, carry out regular inspections, deal with queries, instruct any additional work required, monitor progress on site, keep track of cost, value the works and certify payments due to the builder.
RIBA Stage 6
Handover and Close Out
When the project is ready to handover the architect will inspect and value the works and issue a certificate. The architect will be available after handover and during any defects period to arrange for certifying the final payment.
