GJS Architects - www.GJSArchitects.co.uk

Process - Collation of Site Information

Consultation

If your new building is to be everything you hoped it will be, then we need to understand your requirements and aspirations. Right from the outset, whether you are altering your existing building or starting a new development we need to hear your expectations.

If you already have sketch ideas or have seen drawings of something you like then we would be happy to receive them and consult with you by telephone to discuss the project’s viability and likely cost. Alternatively we can arrange a free-of-charge, no obligation appointment with an Architect, who will visit the project with you to discuss your requirements. Alternatively we would be happy to receive you at our offices with an agreed appointment. Almost all buildings are unique and bespoke, this initial consultation will focus on what you wish to achieve. We will therefore discuss with you the size, style and shape of the new building work as well as the intended use for it.
We will make a second appointment with you, usually around 7 – 10 days after the initial consultation, in order to undertake the site survey and agree our terms of appointment if you still require clarification.

Agree terms of Appointment

Our commitment to providing quality buildings is matched by the quality of service you receive from us. We will set out clearly the terms that we are appointed under and always keep you informed of the process you are going through.

Whilst our terms of appointment will be fixed we are happy to adapt our instruction to proceed with a project to suit a customers requirement. Developing a building constitutes a major capital investment to any property owner and it is our aspiration to make the process as easy as possible.

Because your new building is designed specific to you the building process takes a little time to get approval and built. So, as a matter of routine, we will call you every three weeks with a progress report so that you are fully informed of the status of your project. This also gives you the opportunity to keep us advised of any developments at your property, for example if other building work is taking place.

Client Liaison

It is important to us that you are totally happy with the design of your new building. Once you have made the decision to go ahead, we will make an appointment for you with our architect to discuss any modifications required to the initial design brief. Often following the initial consultation your aspirations may change This modification process may go through more than one meeting as we work through features and aspects of the building that are important to you.

We make no apology for the design process and discussions that you will have with our architect; it is only by exploring in depth how you wish to develop your new building that we can produce a design that will meet all of your requirements. Often the balance between aesthetics, practicality, financial and individuality his hard to balance.

Although featured a lot on TV the bringing together of a mood board helps the architect understand features and elements of a building that excite or even annoy you. This snap shot of information will help the architect focus on your requirements and help speed up the design process.

Collation of site information

We will make a second appointment with you, usually around 7 – 10 days after the initial consultation, in order to undertake the site survey.

One of the ways in which we ensure the quality of the building is to ensure that we make a detailed survey of the site on which it is to be built. This means taking very precise measurements and noting the exact position of drains, pipe work, existing structures such as walls and garden features, etc. The survey will also take note of site access arrangements and any special considerations. We will undertake this survey at the earliest possible opportunity.

During this visit the consultant will also take the measurements and photographs required to produce a design for you. We will also research utility company information to ascertain if there are any service information that will effect the development.

Presentation

Once we have undertaken the site survey we will forward you a copy of the information for comment whilst we proceed with the design.

This is the stage of the work where the architect brings together all the existing site information whilst drawing on the information gleaned at the initial meetings covered in the design meetings and discussed through the mood board. Once we have developed a solution we will arrange to meet and go through the proposals. This meeting will probably be the most important part of the building development and we suggest the customer set aside at least 1.5 hours of quality time to discuss the proposals properly.

With something as unusual, innovative and above-the-ordinary as our buildings, two dimensional drawings can demand a lot of a persons imagination. As an optional extra we can prepare 3-dimensional solid modelling CAD drawings, we produce computer generated images that help our clients see ideas and minor variations in stunning reality and detail.

Once everyone is totally happy with the designs, the planning and building regulation information can be developed and the requisite statutory approval gained. We will submit this application on your behalf and follow them through the process and keep you informed of any developments

Planning & Building Regulation Approval

On your behalf we can draw up plans for the Local Authority and prepare a planning application. We will liaise with the planning officers and handle any queries they may have. We will ensure that your new bespoke structure meets current Building Regulations and we will arrange for an inspector to call at the appropriate time. We will keep you fully informed of the progress of planning and building regulations approval via your regular updates.

Product Information

The concept and design drawings will be produced for you, along with the specification information. From the approved drawings we will produce all the required information for the building to be priced and built. Once you have approved the technical CAD drawings we will produce the Specification ready for tendering by building contractors.

Once everyone is totally happy with the design and detailed specification we can approach building contractors on a competitive tender basis for a cost of the project and a proposed programme of works.

Contract

During the tender process we will help you through the formal procedure. With the aid of a scoring matrix we will evaluate the tender returns and establish the best proposal for your specific project.

As all projects are bespoke we will consider the price of the tender, the speed at which it can be delivered and the capability and financial ability of a company to deliver the project within the parameters set out by us.

We will liaise with the building contractor and advise on insurances and cover required by both parties. Once agreed we will draft a suitable building contract and run the building project.

Project management is not included but can be provided as a separate item. This would cover the delivery of items such as kitchen white goods, floor finishes, garden furniture and landscape design.

Building Works

Whether you engage the services of one of our recommended contractors or use your own builders we will liaise with them throughout the build phase to ensure that your new building structure is finished at the right time and that costs are in line with budget predictions. We will inspect the works and ensure that the building is built to the standards specified. We will advise on the financial status of the project throughout the building process to ensure you are not financially at risk.

Completion

The final stage of the process is the finishing off. Regular contact with you throughout the process allows us to ensure anything unforeseen during building work is incorporated and the project adjusted to encompass these items.

We only accept a high standard of workmanship and all you have to do now is relax and enjoy your new building.

Why not discuss your project with us, call us for a no obligation exploratory discussion where we can seek common ground and share ideas. Contact us now by email