01
Preparation OF THE BRIef
The brief evolves through discussion of the ambitions and needs of the client. The feasibility of the project may be tested to assess if these are achievable, considering budget and constraints of the site. If there is an existing building, this may be analysed to see how it can be improved or adapted achieve the objectives.
02
INITIAL Design
The brief is interpreted through sketch drawings that identify possible solutions which are discussed and revised as required to find the best architectural response. These may be taken to form initial consultations with statutory authorities.
03
TO PLANNING consent application
Drawings are developed to describe the appearance of a building, its layout and relationship to the surroundings. The design should take account of budget, and the longevity of materials and the environmental suitability of the design. This stage normally culminates an application for Planning Permission.
04
TO BUILDING WARRANT application
Technical drawings are developed with information covering aspects of structure, construction, and building services that will be required in the submission of information in an application for building warrant. This stage often involves input from other consultants such as a structural engineer and the architect will coordinate the design between disciplines.
05
Construction documentation
Detailed drawings are developed to fully describe the construction. For larger projects a specification will be developed which accurately defines the quality and workmanship of the materials to be used. If a quantity surveyor is engaged, they will develop a bill of quantities to sit along side the drawings and specifications. For smaller works, a schedule of works and drawings prepared by the architect may be sufficient.
06
tender administration
The drawing, specifications and bill of quantities (or schedule of works) are issued to a number contractors for tender. At the end of the tender period the quantity surveyor and architect review the tender returns for accuracy, and a tender report submitted to the client. After consideration the tender is awarded to the successful contractor, and the project moves forward to construction.
07
Contract administration
During the construction period the architect often adopts the role of Contract Administrator for the Construction Contract, acting between the client and contractor. The architect will make site inspections as appropriate to ensure that the Contractor is following the drawings and specification, that work completed is of an appropriate standard and that staged payments to the Contractor are correctly certified.
If closer inspection of the contractor’s work is required, the client may consider the employment of a Clerk of Works.
08
Post completion work
The architect will advise the contractor of any defects to work (commonly referred to as snagging).
On conclusion of the defects liability period final payment of retentions to the contractor will formally conclude the contract with the builder.
There may also be a post occupancy evaluations to help develop and understand whether your building is performing to what it is designed to do.
