Services
Each project is unique and requires thoughtfully tailored services, my role also can evolve across the duration of a project.
For a residential new build traditional procurement route, an example overview is set-out below using the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) stages.
Book a discovery call and I'll be pleased to hear about your plans and determine whether my skills and experience could benefit your project.
Alternatively, FAQs provide more information.
RIBA Stages 0 & 1:
Strategic Definition & Preparation
I work for my client with the concept and planning team to capture the vision for the project.
As the brief is developed and the team is assembled, I support and advocate for strategic alignment to the vision .
Specifically, I work with each client to:
-
Define the vision and needs from the opportunity,
-
Consider whether and how to proceed,
-
Fully understand and help develop the brief, the requirements and targets (sustainability and spacial),
-
Help determine the procurement strategy that best achieves the objectives,
-
Confirm the on-going design team in readiness for the next stages.
If I am involved early enough, I may help you select and appoint your concept and planning team.
RIBA Stages 2 & 3:
_edited.jpg)
Concept Design & Spatial Coordination
During stage 2, the design team will translate the project brief into architectural concepts and share sketches, initial floor plans, drawings and visualisations. An early cost and budget check will take place and any deviations from the original brief are understood, captured and agreed.
By the completion of stage 3, the approved concept is developed into a fully resolved design with all architectural, structural, and service elements included and coordinated. Costs are developed, proceeding to planning application.
As consultants join the team, during these stages I will:
-
Review proposal, ask questions and comment,
-
Facilitate communication and the efficient exchange of information as the team expands,
-
Maintain oversight of the compilation of pre-construction information and work to prevent unnecessary delays,
-
Support the client through the review and sign-off process for each stage report,
-
Monitor the timeline for progress and promote prompt attention to tasks.
RIBA Stage 4:
Technical Design
Once planning permission is in place (if required), the project's design will be worked-up into highly detailed construction and Building Regulations packages.
As tender and contract related documentation is shared, the role of Contract Administrator is established and the team readies for the construction phase.
In the technical design stage, I will:
-
Check the design team's information has been prepared to match exact technical and performance expectations,
-
Promote timely handover of tender documentation and responses to queries,
-
Assist my client in evaluating tender returns from contractors and selecting a main contractor.
RIBA Stage 5:
Manufacturing & Construction
As work on site gets underway, I am the client's eyes-and-ears, attending regularly and providing detailed updates, seeking answers to any queries from my client regarding progress or other matters, advocating for the continual alignment of the project with design intent, budget constraints, the contractor's programme and other parameters.
Across the team, I promote prompt attention to risks, issues, concerns and any items blocking progress. Providing information and answers to prevent interruption and enable continuation.
During construction and renovation, I will:
-
Regularly attend site,
-
Update my client via the Client Portal with photographs and site reports,
-
Check any issues arising an ensure clarity, prioritisation and escalation,
-
Track quality, standards, budget, programme and specification in the performance of the Principal Contractor,
-
Support and assist in the resolution of issues and processing of variations or design changes,
-
Foster team work and the integration of consultants and trades throughout construction, through to interior designers and artisan craftsmen,
-
Promote swift and effective resolution to informal conflicts or disputes,
-
Prepare for Practical Completion and handover.
RIBA Stages 6 & 7:
Handover & Use
In these final stages, I work with the team to represent my client's requirements as construction or renovation work completes, the property transforms for use rather than a identifying as a building site, and a smooth completion and transfer is planned and executed.
Specifically, I will:
-
Regularly attend site,
-
Drive for clarity on timescales and outstanding tasks,
-
Work with the Contract Administrator on snagging and compliance ahead of Practical Completion,
-
Liaise on the completion and handover of the Health & Safety File, Building Regulations compliance certificates, and operation and maintenance manuals for your home or building,
-
Participate in the 'soft landings' process, to ensure the operational performance of the building is efficient and as designed,
-
Capture feedback and lessons learned with the team,
-
Provide a point of continuity for work outside the remit of the Principal Contractor such as delivery of furnishings and any on-going interior design scope.
It has been a pleasure to work with you on the project, and thank you for driving it through to its highly successful conclusion – we are delighted with the results.
- Private Client, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire