Our services and process
If you need to change your home, from a radical transformation that will create more space, to imaginatively altering a part of it, going up, down or sideways, or simply installing a new kitchen, I can help.
Experience – expertise – passion
For over 20 years, I’ve been listening to clients and creating designs to achieve their goals. From designing a brand-new home, undertaking a sensitive renovation, or reconfiguring a layout to create a much better and more practical use of the space.
Working with clients is a collaborative process. I will meet with you, listen to your aspirations and suggestions, and bring my design experience and expertise to the table. Then I will devise some creative solutions to enhance your home.
Personal approach
I think it’s important to state that, if appointed, you will be working directly with me as the designer. I prefer the personal approach, which means I meet with you, design solutions for you then liaise with you to see the project through from start to finish. Assistants work with me to manage projects, the practice and complete drawings and measured surveys.
Five stage process
1. Briefing, appointment and preparation
During this stage I will:
- Meet with you, listen and discuss your aspirations and requirements.
- Write and confirm the brief back to you alongside a fixed fee for our services.
- Arrange for a measured survey of the property.
- Obtain OS digital map, land registry plan and public sewer records.
- Undertake a constraints report which investigates potential restrictions on the site. e.g., sewers or a conservation area.
2. Concept design & VR
- I will design several options and send to you with a video explaining each proposal.
- Design options feedback meeting: usually done online so that I can share my screen and adjust the design drawings as we talk.
- Submit revised designs to you for further study and decision.
Optional
- I can obtain a budget estimate for building your project.
- Our virtual reality experience (VR) – borrow one of our headsets and walk around inside your new home. It’s like a test drive.
3. Planning and building regulation
Not all developments need planning permission, but nearly all projects must comply with building regulations. I have the experience to ensure we gain approvals as swiftly as possible.
When we have a design that we’re happy with, I will:
- Prepare and submit planning documentation.
- Prepare and submit building regulations documentation.
- Manage the application process.
- Appoint/recommend a structural engineer if required.
4. Detailed designs, builders’ quotes and contracts
After planning consent is granted, I start work on the detailed design and specification. This provides builders with the information needed to price the build. Whilst smaller projects can be priced and built directly from the Stage 2 drawings, most need more detailed design work.
I’ve worked with several builders on many successful projects and I can obtain quotes for you and set up a building contract. Or we can negotiate a price with one following an independent detailed cost estimate.
5. The Build
During the build, I will will support you and help give you peace of mind by visiting the site at key stages to inspect the works. I can ensure the build follows the designs and is constructed in line with your planning and building regulations consent.
When the build is finished and the project is complete, I enjoy returning to see first-hand how the owner’s touches have made it their home. After all, that’s why I became an architect in the first place.
Fees
I like to be totally transparent regarding fees. I have a clear fixed-fee structure for projects on people’s homes that enables you to select additional options, such as our virtual reality experience or detailed cost estimates.
I’m always mindful that it’s your money, home and project. Only when you’re satisfied am I satisfied.
Planning and building regulations fees are not included in our charges. If consent applications are required, you will pay the council/borough directly.
My fees
I like to be totally transparent with regard to fees. For projects on people’s homes (known as domestic projects), I have a clear fixed-fee structure that enables clients to select additional options such as virtual reality and detailed cost estimates.
Personal approach
I think it’s important to state that, if appointed, you will be working directly with me as the designer. Assistants work with me to complete drawings or measured surveys.
I prefer the personal approach since it means I can design, draw and then liaise with my clients to see projects through from start to finish.
Interior design
Although I get involved in interior design, I often find that my collaborative approach empowers clients to take a proactive role in this area.
Once a project is complete, I enjoy returning to see first-hand how the owner’s touches have made it their home. After all, that’s why I became an architect in the first place!
