HOW WE WORK.
Every project is different, but the process follows a familiar shape. We've set out the stages below - what we do at each one, and what you can expect to walk away with. Depending on your needs, you may only require us for part of the journey - and that's fine too.
Definition.
RIBA Stages 0 & 1
An agreed brief and an honest view of what’s possible - a clear pathway before any significant time or money is committed.
Understanding what you need.
Before any design begins, we work with you to define what you're trying to achieve and where the value lies. We sense-check ambitions against budget and planning realities, and where needed, carry out or commission a measured survey to fully understand what we're working with. This stage sets the golden thread for everything that follows - establishing realistic timelines, identifying additional consultants, and ensuring there are no surprises further down the line.
Design.
RIBA Stage 2
A clear design direction with visuals that bring it to life - enough to make informed decisions and move on to the next stage.
Exploring the possibilities.
This is where the project starts to take shape. Through sketches, drawings, and 3D visuals we explore different approaches and test them against your brief. We work collaboratively - presenting ideas, listening to feedback, and refining until we land on a direction we're all confident in. Where appropriate, this is also the right moment to open early conversations with the Local Authority through a pre-application submission.
Detail.
RIBA Stage 3
A resolved design package ready for planning submission - and whatever else the project requires at this stage.
Preparing for planning.
With the design agreed, we develop it into a fully resolved set of drawings and documents for planning submission - presenting your proposal to the Local Authority in a clear and compliant format. Where a pre-application has been undertaken, this stage builds on that feedback. The same package can also serve other purposes at this point, such as leaseholder approval or early marketing material.
Milestone: Planning approval
Planning permission is never guaranteed but we know how the system works and we’ll navigate it with you every step of the way.
Compliance.
RIBA Stage 4
A technical package tailored to your project - a clear and confident picture of what it will cost to build.
Ready to build.
With planning secured, we develop the technical information needed to get your project built. The level of detail is tailored to the scale and complexity of the job - from a concise set of drawings for a straightforward build, to a fully coordinated package involving specialist consultants such as structural engineers. It's also at this stage that build costs move to real numbers, as contractors can price from a well-defined set of information.
Milestone: Contractor appointment
With a priced technical package in hand, you're in a position to appoint a contractor with confidence - the scope is defined, the design is resolved, and the numbers stack up.
On-site
RIBA Stages 5-7
A steady hand when you need one - on your terms.
Someone in your corner.
How much or how little we're involved on site is entirely your call. We can attend key meetings, review progress, and update drawings where needed - but we don't project manage, handle valuations, or take on formal contractual roles. What we do offer is a sanity check. It's easy to lose sight of the original brief once a build is underway - we're there to make sure on-site decisions are weighed against the bigger picture.
Every project starts with a conversation. If you'd like to talk through where you are and where you want to get to, we'd love to hear from you.