Undertaking building work can be messy and daunting. But it can also be exciting and life changing. We understand the importance a carefully designed home has on our wellbeing. We can help you navigate through the process and help you design a home that is unique to your needs. And it all starts with a conversation.
Many domestic clients may not have any previous experience of construction work. This section aims to give a brief explanation for what to expect. No matter what scale your project is, an architect can help you get the best out of your project in the early stage, ensuring money is not spent unnecessarily. Working with a fully qualified architect ensures that you receive a professional service.
The Royal Insitute of Architects in Scotland, RIAS, has prepared a brief guide for working with an architect. Click on the image below to learn more.
The Royal Insitute of Architects in Scotland, RIAS, has prepared a brief guide for working with an architect. Click on the image below to learn more.
What to expect and when
The Royal Institute of British Architects, RIBA, has defined a plan which organises the process of undertaking building work under 7 different stages. Most construction projects in the UK now follow this plan for guidance.
Stage 0 & Stage 1 - Surveys
The project starts by appointing an architect, defining the client's brief, reviewing requirements for statutory permissions (planning permission & building warrant), carrying out any required survey work, discussing timescales and reviewing the requirements of other consultants such as structural engineers.
Stage 2 - Sketches
During this stage, early concept designs are prepared in response to the client's brief. These are reviewed and redeveloped if needed.
Stage 3 - Planning
During this stage, a detailed design is prepared and all documents required for planning application are completed. This stage includes planning application submission. Clients should be aware that local councils can take up to two months to reach a decision (for local, small scale developments).
Stage 4 - Building warrant & details
During this stage, construction drawings are prepared and a building warrant application is submitted (which ensures your project complies with Building Regulations). Your architect will liase with any other specialist consultants required such as structural engineers. The building warrant drawings are developed to contract drawings and builders are invited to tender for the project.
Stage 5 - Construction
The project is prepared to allow the works to commence on site. A builder is selected to carry out the works and a contract between the builder and the client is signed. The contract drawings are used to ensure that the building works are carried out in accordance with the building contract.
Stage 6 - Works finished
This stage includes the final stages of the build and hand-over of the completed building works. Any defects are identified and remedial works agreed with the builder if necessary.
Stage 7 - Any additional work
The project is complete and the client is enjoying their new space. Sometimes the performance of the building needs to be monitored or further modifications may be considered.
The project starts by appointing an architect, defining the client's brief, reviewing requirements for statutory permissions (planning permission & building warrant), carrying out any required survey work, discussing timescales and reviewing the requirements of other consultants such as structural engineers.
Stage 2 - Sketches
During this stage, early concept designs are prepared in response to the client's brief. These are reviewed and redeveloped if needed.
Stage 3 - Planning
During this stage, a detailed design is prepared and all documents required for planning application are completed. This stage includes planning application submission. Clients should be aware that local councils can take up to two months to reach a decision (for local, small scale developments).
Stage 4 - Building warrant & details
During this stage, construction drawings are prepared and a building warrant application is submitted (which ensures your project complies with Building Regulations). Your architect will liase with any other specialist consultants required such as structural engineers. The building warrant drawings are developed to contract drawings and builders are invited to tender for the project.
Stage 5 - Construction
The project is prepared to allow the works to commence on site. A builder is selected to carry out the works and a contract between the builder and the client is signed. The contract drawings are used to ensure that the building works are carried out in accordance with the building contract.
Stage 6 - Works finished
This stage includes the final stages of the build and hand-over of the completed building works. Any defects are identified and remedial works agreed with the builder if necessary.
Stage 7 - Any additional work
The project is complete and the client is enjoying their new space. Sometimes the performance of the building needs to be monitored or further modifications may be considered.