Architectural Design Services

The needs of the client are at the core. Every project is unique from the brief, context and budget, and there are countless decisions to be made along the way.

The beginning of a building project can often be a confusing time, particularly when embarking on this journey for the first time. There are countless decisions to be made at each stage, and knowing where to begin, and confidently understanding what is needed and when can be a daugnting prospect.

Gray Architecture offers a personalised service to help navigate and guide you with a simple step by step process. This starts with a relaxed conversation about your vision and goals. From there a collaborative approach is taken to drive your project forward with creativity and professionalism.

The service is split into stages (structured by the RIBA). The general sequence and main aims of each stage of a building project are outlined below. The extent of the service can be tailored to undertake as much or as little that we decide together is necessary to suit you and your build.

Stage 1 | Briefing & Surveys

This is the start of your project and an important time to establish key aspirations and understand the building and context. Gray Architecture offers an Initial consultation to discuss your brief and give early professional advice on design, planning considerations, statutory requirements, the build, and expected costs. Other services are offered alongside, including :

  • Feasibility Studies

  • Architects Measured Surveying

  • Coordination of specialist site survey information

  • Coordination of early-stage consultant advice

Stage 2 | Concept & Design Development

At this stage, initial design thinking and options are developed and tested. More complex schemes or challenging settings may involve a detailed thorough analysis with specialist input leading towards a planning pre-application. Smaller projects, such as home extensions, would generally involve a series of arrangement options. Also offered :

  • Concept design development and arrangement options

  • Planning Pre-Application Design

  • Cost reviews and early budgetary advice (in part with a Cost Consultant)

  • Early coordination with other consultants & specialist advisors

Stage 3 | Planning

Submission of a planning application and securing approval is the main aim at this stage, but it could also cover a range of other aspects of the project. This could be as simple as producing a drawing package, but equally can be tailored to suit more demanding projects, including :

  • Further design development to finalize a spatial arrangement

  • Planning drawings (and Architectural reports)

  • Pre-planning cost reviews

  • Materials, joinery, and finishes selections

  • Extended coordination with other consultants & specialist advisors

  • 3D and physical modelling

  • Planning and Listed Building applications

  • The license of alter applications

Stage 4 | Compliance & Pricing

This stage can broadly be divided into two sections: 1) ‘building regulations & other statutory compliance’ and 2) ‘tender information’. Building information of much greater complexity and detail is produced here to a level that is fully compliant and can be used to price and build from. This stage can be tailored to reflect the scale of the project. For example, on smaller projects, separating a building regs package will be more economic whilst still providing enough information for a competent builder. Also offered :

  • Technical drawings & coordination

  • Architectural specifications & schedules

  • Pre-tender cost reviews

  • CDM information

  • Management of the tender process

  • Contractor selection & appointments

  • Building contract advice & compiling

Stage 5 | Construction

There are a number of ways to make a build become a reality. Whichever route you choose, appointing an Architect has huge benefits to help manage the quality, time frames, site queries, and contractual matters along the way. On smaller projects with budget restrictions, Gray Architecture can offer an advisory alternative or is equally happy for you to move forward on your own. On larger projects, comprehensive contract administration services are available, including:

  • Site inspections & regular monitoring

  • Financial reviews & cost control

  • Contract administration & payment certificates

  • Lead role & coordination of the design team

  • Snagging & handover

Find out more

This summary should hopefully give you a broad overview of the services available and the requirements of each stage of a ‘typical’ building project. This can of course be tailored to meet your exact needs and budget.

For further detailed information about the process and fees feel free to get in touch.