Architectural Services
Professional Design
Dedicated to Quality
Planning & LDC1 applications
When new development is sought in residential situations, it can be complex and confusing for house holders to determine when a planning application is necessary and when a submission for a Certificate of Lawful Development may be more appropriate.
This service takes into consideration permitted development rights, reviewing the affect of any pre-existing extensions, and the impact of relaxations to general planning law introduced at national level in October 2010. This service determines whether it would be appropriate to apply for a full or outline planning application, and usually involves consultations with the local Planning Authority. As mentioned above, those circumstances which do not require a formal planning approval may still need Certificate of Lawful Development approval, and this is also ascertained.
House doctor services
This service involves a thorough assessment of the layout of the property, with design advice about what we believe works and what doesn't. This includes a review of the flow of space, circulation routes, and the quality of light.
Recommendations are made to identify what can done to alleviate problem areas. Unlike some other house doctor services advertised, this is not a 'paint it beige and declutter' service, rather a detailed look at how a property can be redesigned to improve its long-term amenity whilst adding value to the property asset.
Full Plans Building Control applications
Drafting of computerised detailed working drawings and associated specifications to meet the requirements of the local Council Building Control department for Full Plans approval.
Depending on the level of specification commissioned by clients, this service is also designed to stipulate quality control standards for workmanship and materials, linked to relevant British and EU Standards, with advice about how newer green products can be used to lower energy consumption and in-use running costs.
Drafting of computerised detailed working drawings and associated specifications to meet the requirements of the local Council Building Control department for Full Plans approval.
Depending on the level of specification commissioned by clients, this service is also designed to stipulate quality control standards for workmanship and materials, linked to relevant British and EU Standards, with advice about how newer green products can be used to lower energy consumption and in-use running costs.
Cranked steelwork for habitable loft conversion, Pinner HA5
Building contracts and Project management
Most clients prefer to manage their building works via a written contractual agreement with the chosen builder and this service provides assistance for the appropriate selection of JCT contract used to govern the works, customising its use for the assistance of the client, and executing the contract on site to maintain an efficient and professional relationship with the contractor.
Project management
Once works commence on site, we provide an interface with the contractor regarding construction issues, including chairing progress meetings, signing off certificates of payment, liaising with Building Control for routine on site inspections by their officers, and dealing with snagging stages prior to and including Practical Completion.