Architecture

Backyard

Approach

We specialize in extensions, conversions, renovations and re-modeling of residential properties. Our architectural design work is highly creative and technically sound.

 

At the heart of every project we take on is a philosophy of creating a one-of-a-kind home for each and every client. We aim to create a unique, creative and yet highly functional home that matches the client’s personal lifestyle and enhances their time at home.

 

We don’t just think about the outside when we produce architectural plans. We work backwards from how you want to live inside. It’s very important to marry your architecture with your interiors right at the start of your project, for the ultimate home.

 

We create meticulously detailed, technical drawing packages. This equips the builders with all of the details they require to get the construction and fit-out right first time. This avoids any ambiguity onsite, which is what often results in disputes, delays and additional costs.

 

We can provide a complete, wrap-around project management service. This means that over and above a standard architect’s Contract Administration offering, we co-ordinate and manage the entire project on your behalf.

The design process

1.FREE SITE VISIT

Every project is different and it’s important we understand what you want to gain from your project from the very beginning. The initial site visit allows us to see your home and understand what you want to accomplish.. Following your Site Visit, we will confirm our Fixed Fee Design Service, and also a budget estimate.

 

2.THE SURVEY

After you have agreed to appoint us we will book in the site survey. During this meeting we will measure up the property in detail and will discuss all design alternatives from the layout and floor plans to the materials used in the exterior.

 

3.CONCEPT DESIGN

Within 10 days of completing the Measured Survey, we will send over existing & proposed floor plans. You can to change our proposed plans until you are totally happy with your final layout. We ask homeowners to take this time to experiment and consider lots of designs as you want to be sure before committing to a design via planning.

 

4.PLANNING APPLICATION

We will put together the planning application for you after you are satisfied with your design. This includes your drawing set (site plan, existing and proposed ground floor plan, roof plans, sectional details, side elevations etc.) and anything else we feel would support your application such as a Heritage Report or a Design & Access Statement.

 

5.WAITING PERIOD

Following application, 8 weeks are generally required including the validation time (This means that the council are registering the application as valid and confirming that they have what they need to make a determination.) Once the application is validated, a Case Officer will be assigned. We then make contact with the Case Officer to ensure that they have our details.

 

6.PARTY WALL PROCESS

If your construction has an impact on a wall or structure shared with the neighbor and if you want to build soon, we would recommend getting started on Party Wall once you have submitted to planning, so you can run the process alongside the 8 week planning window.

 

7.BUILDING REGULATIONS PACKS

We will notify you if planning permission is accepted. The next step after the application is accepted is your Building Reg Pack which are the detailed drawings that Building Control and your assigned contractor will require during your Build. These detailed drawings show all of the steel placement and specifications etc. If your application is rejected, we will look carefully as the reasons for rejection and work with you to find the best solution forward, be that to Appeal the decision or amend the drawings and resubmit.