We think of architecture not as the production of a set of drawings, but as an entirely integrated practice involving landscapes, structure, ecology, regulatory requirements, interiors, and materials. 

Buildings should speak of the place in which they are built, materials, colours, and textures should be harmonious, and the way people dwell in buildings is of the primary importance.  Aesthetic movements come and go, but we have found these principles to be timeless.

As partners with our clients, we strive for honesty and clarity.  The first step is for us to understand the client’s vision and needs, not to present our own.  We value timeliness, direct communication, models, prototypes and presentations, as well as the occasional face-to-face meeting.

Over the years, we have been fortunate to collaborate with some excellent clients on some wonderful projects, some of which you can find on this site. A building exists in time and its usefulness is directly related to how well it continues to perform over its lifetime; we regularly keep in touch with clients of past projects to ensure their continued satisfaction with their buildings.

Of all those who intervene in the design and construction of buildings, the Architect is best placed to represent the interests of the client and future users of the building.  By following the project from inception to completion, architects can and do deliver quality and value over and above their remuneration.

We strongly advise that clients appoint their architects for the design and delivery of the whole project; this allows for the greatest control of the design, integration of technical expertise, and importantly control of the cost and quality of the construction phase.  There are some cases where projects merit being divided into discrete services, and you may find these below.

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1. Survey

Producing dimensionally accurate plans, sections, and elevations of the existing structure or site.

2. Client Brief & Concept Design

Possibly the most important step, discussing and formulating the Client Brief in partnership with the client, then providing initial concept design ideas for discussion and further development.

3. Planning Consents

Producing comprehensive drawing sets and necessary information for the submission for the relevant planning consents. In the UK this often involves a Pre-application submission, followed by a full Planning Application. In France, this involves either an application for a Permis de construire or a Déclaration Préalable, depending on the scope and scale of the project.

4. Technical Design

In collaboration with other consultants, such as a Structural Engineer or Bureau d’études, to produce drawings and project information needed to ensure compliance with the regulations in force. In the UK this stage also typically involves the submission of information for Building Regulations approval.

5. Tendering / Costing

Depending on the type of route the client wishes to follow, this stage typically involves the compilation of the project information into a set that can be issued to potentially contractors and manufacturers for pricing. We can help advise you on which potential contractors to approach, and the most suitable procurement model for your particular project. Any value engineering to bring the project within budget may take place during this stage.

6. Construction

During this critical stage of the project, it is imperative to have regular on-site supervision of the project by your architect to help ensure that the cost, quality, and timescales for construction are being met by the contractor. Even with the most detailed planning, construction is a messy, dusty, and potentially stressful process, and an architect can ensure that you have peace of mind and control of your budget while your building is being constructed.

7. Completion

Once your project is complete, your architect will help to ensure that all necessary defects are corrected by the contractor, and any final accounts are correctly settled. You can now take possession of your complete building. Your architect will return to check that the project has not developed any problems within the next 6 month to 1 year following the end of the construction phase.