the project process

The first step in the process is to contact us for an initial consultation.

We will meet you at your house or site to discuss your ideas for the project and what you hope to achieve. We will explain the process and the stages involved, from the initial design through to completion, and advise on the key issues for your project.

There is a fixed fee for this initial meeting - but no further commitment if you don’t want to proceed.

The feasibility study is the beginning of the design journey. During this stage, we;

• Establish your brief and budget
• Carry out a measured survey of the existing building or site
• Prepare CAD drawings of the existing building or site
• Analyse your requirements, the site constraints and opportunities
• Prepare initial sketch design options
• Prepare an outline project cost plan

On completion of the feasibility study, you will have a number of sketch design options and an indication of the project costs involved, to enable you to decide how you want to proceed.

When you are ready to move forward with the project, we will then;

• Develop the initial sketch design concepts further, working closely with you to establish an agreed design
• Prepare 3D images of the design to show you how the building and the spaces will really feel
• Advise on updating the cost plan
• Prepare and submit a planning application (if required)

Once the design is finalised, it needs to be documented in greater detail so that accurate prices can be obtained from builders. This involves;

• Producing detailed, comprehensive construction drawings and specifications 
• Liaising with the structural engineer (and possibly other consultants, if necessary)
• Obtaining tender prices for the project from building contractors

At the end of this stage you will have a detailed set of construction information and be in a position to appoint a builder.

During the construction stage, we act as the contract administrator between you and the builder. This involves;

• Arranging the building contract
• Making site inspections to check that work is carried out as per the contract
• Reviewing and certifying payments to the builder
• Advising on sub-contract work (such as kitchen installations)
• Arranging for certification and completion documentation

After you have moved in, we continue to liaise with the builder to close out outstanding post-completion matters.

The scope of architectural services included in each work stage is set out in the RIAI Agreement between Client and Architect for Domestic Works - contact us for more detail.