The process explained- from concept to completion

For a drawings only service, stages 1-4 apply, for the full design and build service all stages are applicable.

1 Free initial consultation

We visit the property to discuss your requirements, determine the most suitable design approach and advise you on how to proceed. We will also inform you of all the necessary local authority applications and approvals that might be necessary. We will then write to confirm our costs for providing the drawings and give you a budget estimate for the build cost.

2 Survey & sketch design

Discuss client's requirements and establish principle for conversion or extension.
Measured and photographic survey of entire existing building (takes approx. 2 hours)
Draw-up existing plans, elevations and section.
Review clients outline brief and prepare sketch layouts for consultation and client approval.
Preliminary staircase design and calculation.
Sectional drawing showing headroom that will be achieved

3 Planning Application

Complete approved drawings and add additional notes and information required for planning application.
Setup roof plan and block plan for application.
Purchase O/S Plan @ 1:1250 scale.
Complete forms and lodge application.
Check progress of application and deal with correspondence and queries from the planners as necessary.
Brief client and amend drawings as necessary. Note: this allows for minor alterations only, complete redesigns will be extra.

4 Detailed design, engineer's calculations & Building Regulations Applications

Preparation of all plans, sections and elevations, as necessary, at 1:50 scale
Setting-out dimension as appropriate
Building Regulations notes and outline specification to comply with current Approved Documents and British Standards
Sectional details
Steel structure layout (produced in conjunction with Structural Engineer)
Floor joist and trimmer layout
Means of escape and fire precautions design and specification
Design/specification of insulation (sound and thermal), plumbing and ventilation
Fill-in application forms and register · Liaise with Approved Inspector/Local Authority and deal with queries as needed
Brief client and amend drawings as necessary.

5 Application monitoring

Gaining building approvals can be a long and difficult process and each application is unique, so we constantly monitor the progress of each application. Any special requirements, negotiations or amendments will be dealt with efficiently on your behalf, by our experienced team. We advise that no building works can begin until the local authority 'Full Plans' approval has been received. Once received a full set of drawings and all the relevant documentation will be issued to the homeowner and builder to enable work to start.

6 Confirm contract sum and appoint contractor

Finalise contract sum (build costs) based on final approved drawings
Select a suitable contractor from our list of approved builders and appoint them on your behalf
Arrange pre-contract site meeting with builder to check all drawings, details, arrangements and site constraints.
Prepare schedule of works for agreement by all parties.

7 Construction to completion

Make weekly visits to site to check progress of works against agreed schedule.
Issue payments to the contractor based on work completed.
Issue further information as required and report back to client as necessary.

8 Practical completion and handover

Carryout final check on works (snagging) and ensure all outstanding items are dealt with.
Issue final payment to contractor.
Project complete and client can move-in.