We recommend that every client begins by considering their brief. Generally, a fully detailed brief is created through discussion at the initial client meeting, but in preparation for this it is of benefit to begin with the following information: Your Aims Your Budget Your preferred design style [to match something existing, to match surrounding properties, contemporary, traditional, or maybe to be sustainable or environmentally friendly] Your reasons for undertaking this project [intended uses, desired outcomes, etc.] Your final expectations [additional space, better/ different uses, more light, etc.] You may not know what construction works you need to achieve your goals – don’t worry, we can help work this out as part of assessing your aspirations!

We like to start every new project with an in person site meeting to discuss your initial brief, aims and desires, this then helps us to establish the project brief and what types of permissions are likely going to be required. At this stage we can provide some initial advice on general planning policy, its potential impacts on your proposals, and the types of permissions that are likely going to be required. This initial consultation is 30 minutes and free of charge. This helps us establish what services you need in order to provide a personalised proposal. Alternatively, we can provide a more detailed initial design consultation meeting to discuss different design ideas, assess the current building restrictions, and establish a more focussed brief, and potentially preferred options. This service consists of a 1.5 - 2 hour site meeting, plus 1 hour preparation, at a cost of £225.00 + VAT

Once the project brief has been established a formal quotation can be provided, this will usually be separated out into stages for clarity [For quotations with a number of stages we always ensure that instruction to proceed is received for each section of works, so the client is always in control of the progress of the project]. Also set out in the quotation will be initial lead times, and additional fees such as printing, postage and travel.

Most applications require a set of drawings showing the existing layout and elevations of a building. These plans along with dimensions and often ground levels are required to producing the detailed drawing package. Where a set of accurate existing drawings are unavailable then a site survey will need to be undertaken, if a limited amount of information and measurement is required, we are able to undertake this in house to simplify the process. Where a more detailed survey is required, we have an approved list of external surveyors with whom we work closely.

Once a package of existing drawings is available a feasibility study is undertaken using the client’s brief, assessment of site potential and limitations, and an assessment of relevant planning policies to produce 2-3 initial designs. Once a preferred feasibility option/ options are chosen these are incorporated into a more detailed design. We usually allow for a couple of design revisions, in order to finalise the preferred proposed design.