These are the stages of the design process involved from conception to completion of a typical project. They are based on the RIAI (Royal Institute of Architects) stages of work. The extent of the service can be tailored depending on the level of input you require for your project.
Design /Planning
- Site analysis
- Review planning precedence
- Design research/ inspiration
- Sketch design/ design iterations
- Engage with local planner
- Work with appointed QS to create a budget estimate for project
- Rationalise the design to reduce costs
- Layering of information (materials, BER, planning and building regulations, H&S)
- Revise planning drawings
- Create design statement document for planner (depending on project)
- Preparation of planning application
- Submit application along with newspaper ad, site notice and drawings
- Respond to any validation issues for the authority
If 3D visualisations are needed for the planner, there is a separate fee for this work
Detail Design
- Work with selected Quantity Surveyor to prepare an updated budget estimate
- Work with appointed engineer to prepare structural design drawings
- Preparation of construction drawings at a variety of scales and specification for the new build extension and interfaces with existing house
- Agree a list of finishes that are within the budget
- Give guidance on sanitaryware, kitchen design and fittings where needed
- Work with selected Quantity Surveyor to prepare a detailed priced bill of quantities for tendering
Tender/Pricing
- Selection of builders for tendering, meet on site with candidates if required
- Send documentation to contractors and follow-up on queries
- Work with appointed QS on the evaluation of tenders
- Main Contractor negotiation
- Issue recommendation report
Construction Stage
- Appointment of Contractor and issue contract documentation
- Amendment to drawings in agreement with contractor
- Work with Contractor to create a programme of works
- It is required to appoint a PSDP for Health and Safety (Project Supervisor Design Process) on the project and prepare a Preliminary Health & Safety Plan. The Contractor will be the Project Supervisor Construction Stage
- Submit the Commencement Notice including the necessary drawings,
specifications, calculations, Building Regulations Schedule, certification. I work with the Opt-Out route under the BCAR (building control regulations).
- Site inspections to ensure works completed according to drawings, specification and the required quality
- Detailed electrical layout
- Review change requests from Contractor
- Provide sketch details for site works if required
- Be available to contractor to respond to queries and programme management
- Review of sub-contractors’ drawings and specification
- Certifying Contractors Interim valuation claims
- Meet with clients to review site progress, quality, programme and budget
- Prepare the necessary paperwork and documentation for mortgage draw-down from
your financial institution, if required.
Post Construction / Final Certification
- Provide certification on completion confirming that the property has been
constructed in accordance with the Planning Permission Granted and the Building
Regulations
- Main Contractor’s final account
- Handover and project close-out
Depending on the project and the level of service that’s required, the architectural fee will be a percentage of the construction cost. This could range from 8-10% depending on the complexity of the project. This is worked out individually for each project with a fee agreement.