We employ a step by step plan giving guidance on the steps to be taken for the dream to be fulfilled.
STAGE 1 - CONSULTATION
For all projects, the first step begins with an initial meeting with the client exploring and understanding the brief and setting out the expectations of the project. Whether if it simply reconfiguring a kitchen unit or substantial refurbishment work, it is here at this stage that sets out the extent of the project before any design work begins. It is also at this stage that gives the homeowner the opportunity to ask any questions about the procedures to realise the project.
After the consultation period, a breakdown of fees will be presented to the client for the various stages of the projects.
STAGE 2 - PLANNING
Following the formal appointment and agreement of the fees to undertake the project as the Architectural Designer of the project, an appointment will be made with the client to carry out a detailed measured survey of the property to establish the existing layouts, services and legal boundaries to develop a workable solution.
Following the measured survey an initial proposed design will then be produced to encapsulate the brief and presented to the client for discussion at which point a thorough detailed design process will take place with the client before a final design/layout is agreed before submitting the plans to the local authority for approval. Depending on the scale of the proposal, JLArchitecture will advise on the type of planning application to use as some planning forms have certain restrictions on what can or can not be built.
STAGE 3 - BUILDING REGULATIONS
This stage involves detailed drawings upon the planning approved layouts to demonstrate that the construction complies with UK Building Standards. It is also at this stage that a Structural Engineer will be appointed to design the structural layout to suit the proposal and highlight any issues. JLArchitecture will at this point liaise with the engineer to ensure that the design of the proposal is not compromised.
Another item which homeowner should consider are party wall agreements. Should party wall agreements be required, JLArchitecture collaborates with numerous party wall surveyors and can advise on qualified party wall surveyors to act on your behalf.
STAGE 4 - TENDER/DETAILED DESIGN & SPECIFICATION
The tender and detailed design stage entails specifying the detailed aspects of the project from the bricks to the socket plates for the development. Every aspect of the project will be looked into with a fine tooth comb from the style of doors to the position of light switches, floor finishes to the position of lights. These will be
covered in a detailed drawing to enable the client to visualise the interior fitting for all rooms that are to be refurbished. The information produced would also be used to approach various builds for their tender prices. A schedule of works detailing the works involved would be produced to accompany all architectural drawings.