How We Do It
The Process
Each project is unique. It is however, common for projects to pass through a series of sequential stages in their development and realisation. These stages are broadly as follows:
- Establish a clear vision
- Explore the possibilities
- Agree the best solution
- Refine the solution
- Secure the necessary approvals
- Prepare the appropriate information for construction
- Administer the construction process
The Royal Institute of British Architects identifies the following key stages to most projects. They are contained in The Plan of Work.
Feasibility
Stages A-B Appraisal and Strategic Brief
Identification of client's vision and possible constraints on development. Preparation of studies that test alternative solutions and identify the most appropriate way to proceed. Documentation of preferred strategy including key requirements and constraints.
Pre-Construction
Stages C-D Outline and Detailed Proposals
Development of the preferred strategy into an increasingly specific solution. Appointment of the full design team. Establish preferred procurement route and estimate costs. Gain planning approvals.
Stages E-F Final proposals and Production Information
Preparation of the information necessary for Building Regulations approval, tendering and construction.
Stages G-H Tendering
Identification of preferred contractors, preparation of the collated tender documentation and appraisal of tender returns.
Construction
Stages J-L Construction
Preparation and signing of contracts with the appointed contractor. Administration of the building contract, up to and including practical completion. Attending site visits to inspect the progress of the works and providing additional clarification to the contractor if required. Managing any changes required during the works. Certification of the works and financial management.
Quality Assurance
We are continually developing our QA procedures in order to ensure that our work is efficiently and consistently delivered to a high standard. It is important to us that these procedures reinforce our commitment to providing a personal and professional service.
We are an RIBA Chartered Practice and carry appropriate professional indemnity insurance as required by the Architects Registration Board. All projects involve a standard form of appointment setting out the terms and conditions of our services.
We are committed to acting with integrity and the professionalism expected from Chartered Architects.
How We Charge
Our fees are specific to each project and depend on the particular service required and the complexity of the project. They are based on the Royal Institute of British Architects fee scales and the 'Clients Guide to Engaging an Architect'.
Generally work that is open-ended (i.e where the time it will take is either in the clients hands or the builders) we charge by the hour. For work that is clearly defined, and our responsibility to deliver, we provide a lump sum fee. The examples below show how this typically works.
Example 1
| Description | New build house in the middle of a flat piece of ground. |
| Project value | £200,000 |
| Percentage fee | 8.5% |
| Complexity factor | - |
| Stage A | Hourly Time Charge |
| Stage C-D | 20% |
| Stage E-F | 30% |
| Stage G-H | 5% |
| Stage J-L | Hourly Time Charge |
Example 2
| Description | 4 distinct new build houses on a steeply sloping site in a Conservation Area. |
| Project value | £600,000 |
| Percentage fee | 6.5% |
| Complexity factor | + 1.5% |
| Stage A-B | 10% |
| Stage C-D | 25% |
| Stage E-F | 30% |
| Stage G-H | 5% |
| Stage J-L | 30% |
Additional fees are charged for work outside the scope of architect's normal services. This includes preparation of cost plans and business plans for lenders, physical and computer modelling, presentation at planning committees, matters relating to the Party Wall etc Act, dispute resolution and other items agreed in advance. These are charged by agreement on a time charge basis.
