The Process
Understanding the process involved with a new project, from first approaching an architect – potentially through to completion of work on site, may seem a daunting prospect. To offer an overview, the Project Roadmap below sets out the various sequential stages. Whilst the extent of architect’s services may range from project to project, at least some of the stages will apply.
Project Roadmap
KEY WORK STAGES 1-8
1

PRE-DESIGN DIAGNOSIS
NEEDS & OPTIONS REVIEW This services comprises:
- Meet client on site
- Listen, to understand client’s practical & emotional wants, needs & Return(s) on investment
- Clarify and develop the above into brief
- Gather site information
- Identify constraints & opportunities
- Discuss (non-design) conceptual ideas & options
- identify planning requirements & options
- Confirm likely involvement of architectural service required for project
- Provide architectural fee quotation for project
- Final written report
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2

CONCEPT DESIGN
- Existing site/building measured survey and CAD drawings
- Design begins, evolving through sketch drawings – often by hand
- Explore any options as design evolves
- Agree preferred option to client’s satisfaction
- Design amendments become more expensive after this stage
3

DETAILED DESIGN
- Check/research key factors/legislation that may affect this, and subsequent work stages
- Make planning preapplication enquiry if applicable
- Final design option drawn up on CAD for planning purposes
- Design is now finalised i.e. amendments after this stage will be expensive & disruptive
4

PLANNING
- Liaise with independent planning consultant where necessary
- Prepare additional documentation and statements to accompanying drawings
- Compile additional detailed drawings for a listed building consent application if listed buildings involved
- Submit online planning application form(s) and upload documentation
- Liaise with planners and make amendments if necessary
- On successful approval discharge any planning conditions
EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

5

BUILDING REGULATIONS
- Application required to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations
- Subjects include structural stability, sound transmittance, fire/means of escape, thermal performance
- Create larger scale detailed drawings demonstrating compliance
- Liaise with relevant third party consultants e.g. structural engineer, acoustician, energy assessor
- Application administered by either local authority Building Control or independent Approved Inspector
- Address any queries arising, resulting in full plans check approval
6

TENDERING PROCESS
- Seek references and suitable contractors for tender list
- Compile tender documentation including detailed production drawings, schedules, specification etc.
- Co-ordinate input from other consultants etc.
- Research appropriate contract & insurances
- Issue tender pack
- On receipt of returned tenders tender analysis
- Prepare contract documents
- Appoint contractor
7

CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Architect administers contract:
- Organise pre-contract meeting with contractor
- Contractor mobilises site
- Attend fortnightly or monthly site meetings to inspect work
- Issue Architect’s Instructions for variations as necessary
- Assess contractor’s monthly claims (unless
undertaken by QS) and issue payment certificates - Generally ensure the project is being delivered on time, to budget and to the requisite quality standards
- Issue Practical Completion Certificate and partial release of retention
8

COMPLETION
- Provide as-built information for CDM Health & Safety File
- Prepare list of defects at the end of 6 or 12 month defects liability period
- Issue Final Certificate on completion of defects
- Final retention release
EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE

EQUIVALENT RIBA PLAN OF WORK STAGE


The Needs & Options Review
As shown under the Roadmap’s Stage 1 – Pre-Design Diagnosis, we start all new projects with an initial information gathering & research service called a Needs & Options Review. We consider this the principal foundation for a successful project outcome.
The service starts with meeting you on site, and concludes with a written report.
Book a FREE Ask the Expert call
Not sure where to start? Book a FREE 20 minute phone call with director Steve Mardall to discuss your project.
During this you will:
- Get answers to questions you may have about your project
- Understand the process and how to get your project started
- Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and lay the foundation for a successful project
- See whether we might work well together
Schedule your call with Steve below
