Process
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has set out the key stages of work required in the design and delivery of any architectural project.
For clarity, these stages are numbered and included within the RIBA Plan of Work.
We use these stages as project milestones, as well as a framework to determine our deliverables, fees, and project programme.
Dream it.
RIBA Stage 1: Preparation and Briefing
Stage 1 is used to clarify and define the project brief.
It is important at our first meetings to discuss the aims and aspirations of any project, creating a brief that can be reviewed, refined, and developed throughout the early work stages. The brief should aim to capture your project ambitions, time scales, initial budget, identify site constraints and opportunities, as well as any other considerations important to you.
Other consultants may need to be appointed at this time and a site survey may need to be arranged.
Plan it.
RIBA Stage 2: Concept Design
We will prepare initial design options in response to your brief. These high-level designs will be presented through a variety of diagrams, sketches, and visualisations to help us discuss, review, and refine the design proposals together. The initial designs will be considered against relevant planning policies, and building regulations, and will be bespoke to this project. Once an initial design option has been identified, it could be developed for submission to the local planning authority for initial pre-application advice, if appropriate. This is recommended for works within a conservation area, works to a listed building, or for more contentious proposals.
Draw it.
RIBA Stage 3: Spatial Coordination + Planning
Once you have selected a preferred design option, it can be further developed, and more detailed proposals prepared for a planning application submission.
We shall coordinate the submission and liaise with the local authority to ensure the best possible outcome is achieved. At the end of this Stage, it is good practice to have agreed on both the spatial coordination and proposed finishes.
Define it.
RIBA Stage 4: Technical Design
We will further develop the design, producing technical detailing, schedules, and specifications, ensuring the proposals are coordinated with other collaborators and consultants.
Conditions relating to your planning approval can be discharged at this time and Building Regulation drawings for Building Control approval can be prepared.
We will also prepare detailed Technical Design information to be priced by Contractors and used for construction by your chosen contractor.
Build it.
RIBA Stage 5 – Manufacturing and Construction
During Stage 5, we can administer the building contract, make site visits and inspections, coordinate any site issues, and ensure the design is being constructed as smoothly as possible.
Stage 6 is short. We shall undertake a completion inspection, highlighting any defects for the contractor to remedy, and shall conclude the building contract.
This is now time for you to enjoy the hard work.
Live it.
RIBA Stage 6: Handover
Refine it.
RIBA Stage 7 – Use
We can offer a range of Post-Occupancy Evaluations during Stage 7.
Please talk to us about these and we can arrange something suitable.