Guide to a designing a project

Land and Property Professionals

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Our Architecture & Building Surveying team has the design flair and practical experience to be able to prepare all the drawings and lead you through the process of designing your building project. We have designed many new builds, refurbishments, extensions and conversions for domestic and commercial projects and provide the following step by step guide, outlining some of the critical considerations.

Step 1: Confirm a detailed design brief

The brief needs to agree key aspects of the design, including the accommodation you require, the size of the structure, your budget, practical considerations, energy efficiency requirements and any other aspirations that are important to the character of the development.


Step 2: Prepare an initial sketch scheme

This is a working document and often evolves. Sometimes several schemes will be prepared as there is often more than one way of delivering the brief. It all depends on the level of detail required and the type of development being applied for. 

Click here to view a range of our visualisations. 


Step 3: Assess the scheme

The proposed details of the scheme will be completed taking into account any relevant pre-application comments. We prepare all the necessary drawings and coordinate all the relevant information to submit the planning application.


Step 4: Develop the scheme

The proposed details of the scheme will be completed taking into account any relevant pre-application comments. We prepare all the necessary drawings and coordinate all the relevant information to submit the planning application.


Step 5: Technical details and working drawings

To cover all the technical aspects, we submit an application to the Building Control authority. The working drawings detail the type of construction, materials to be used, dimensions and technical aspects. They can also often be a good basis to obtain initial builders’ prices for the works.


Step 6: The Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Our in-house team has the expertise to advise if your project falls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. We can also advise you of your obligations under the Construction, Design and Management Regulations (CDM). Both are essential aspects to ensure you comply with all the relevant legislation.

Find out more by visiting our Party Wall web page here.


Step 7: Project management

We offer project management services which include preparing a fully detailed specification based upon the working drawings. We coordinate the procurement process, advise you on suitable builders and can obtain competitive tenders for your complete project.


Step 8: Unforeseen problems

When working with listed buildings or existing structures, many unforeseen matters can arise which require expert technical advice to agree the best way forward. We regularly work with heritage structures and have the expertise to find practical and appropriate solutions.

Inspector On Building Site With Clipboard

Step 9: Cost control and programming

Good communication is always key with any construction project. We will liaise closely with you and the builder at regular stages to ensure things run smoothly and you achieve the right outcome. We carry out all the contract administration and guide you through the process to ensure your project finishes on time and within the agreed budget.


Step 10: The “as built” drawings and completion

Upon completion, we prepare a snagging list of any items which require attention. Once this is complete, the project is ready to handover. We also prepare all the as built drawings and include details of all the materials used on the project. This document is a useful reference tool for the building owner.