architectural Design
Every project is different, so the first step is for us to work with you to establish what the requirements, limitations and opportunities of the project are. We visit the site and meet you – to absorb as much information as possible about the project and to map out the journey ahead. We work with you to define a programme of accommodation – a list of all the spaces required in the house, along with any aspirations for that room, such as how big they are, what they connect to, or what direction they should face. This will give us an idea of the total size of the house. We will also discuss the project budget – this will allow us to calculate the budget/m2, which will inform how much flexibility we have when designing. Once we’ve established this information, we will start to create diagrams exploring how the spaces could be configured and how the building sits on the site.
Once we’ve found an idea that fits, these sketches evolve into hand-drawn plans with a little more detail. From there we create a 3D digital model. We add textures and furniture to the project, and bring the project to life using the latest photo-realistic rendering software. A walkthrough video enables you to get a really good idea of the character of the spaces – the daylight, the proportions, the views, ceiling heights - lots of detail which is not always obvious in 2D drawings.
COST PLANNING
Another benefit of modelling the project in 3D is that our design software automatically generates schedules listing the exact quantity of all the materials used in the design. We maintain a database containing rates for different elements of the build, for example the typical cost to supply and install timber cladding. These rates are based on our experience, and we update them based on the latest prices. By combining this information with the area schedules we can quickly create accurate, detailed cost plans, listing out the total estimated cost associated with each element, and add them up to give the total estimated project cost. On finishes items, we separate out a supply-only budget - this allows the client to understand what has been budgeted for the purchase of that item, so you can decide if you want it to be higher or lower. The cost plan is continually updated as the project progresses, incorporating any changes to the design and actual project expenditure as prices are confirmed.
Once the design and the cost plan have been sufficiently developed, the project is submitted for planning.
Energy Modelling
At this stage we also check the energy performance of the design. This is influenced by the form factor of the building, the levels of insulation and the size and orientation of the windows. This will let you know what your total annual energy consumption will be, and if there is anything you could do to improve. We show you where your project sits in terms of performance, where building regulations compliance is the minimum, and passive house accreditation is the maximum. We recommend a ‘fabric first’ approach, where the budget is focussed on building to the highest quality possible before adding eco-tech to further reduce reliance on the grid.
project management
Once the project has been drawn up in sufficient detail, the project can now be tendered out. The ‘traditional’ approach at this stage is to find a main contractor to manage the build. Alternatively, we offer a project management service where we arrange labour, materials and specialist contractors on your behalf, based on the quantities and budgets defined in the cost plan. We prefer this approach as we find projects are most successful when the design and build teams work as one. We work on an ‘open-book’ basis, meaning you can see exactly what you are paying for, in contrast to a traditional contract where the builder includes an unspecified margin and is therefore incentivized to deliver the project as cheaply as possible. Either way, we provide support as required throughout the build until the project is complete.