Category: Uncategorized

Upper Shoreham Road

Mark Mason

Refurbishment and extension to the rear of a 1930’2 detached house, providing a modern open plan design to the property in order to provide additional family living space.

We were granted planning permission and building control approval, following the submission of plans.  We acted as contract administrators for this project, which meant we got to see it through to completion.

The work went very well and was completed under the contract sum.  The finished design certainly met the clients brief: Light and open plan space with a contemporary feel.

Design and Drawings work including 3D

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We love assisting all clients in realising their dreams.  Initially, we will sit down with our client and ascertain the brief over the proposed works.

Once the brief has been agreed, we will prepare designs for the property, which look to meet this.  As part of the design process we consider:

  • Client requirements
  • Restrictions of the existing property/site
  • Planning Legislation
  • Building Regulations
  • Budget restrictions

The of level design service can vary depending on client requirements.  We have some clients that like us to provide an outline scheme, which they can develop further and others that like a fully comprehensive service right down to choosing the kitchen tap.  We tailor our service accordingly.

We have a wide range of design experience within our team, which includes:

  • Commercial fit outs including retail, hospitality and office
  • Conversion to residential
  • New build developments
  • Education extensions and fit out
  • Residential extensions and loft conversions
  • Refurbishment and Renovation

Some clients struggle to picture the design when it is drawn in 2D.  When required, we do have the option to prepare contextual views of a room or building to help picture what the appearance will be.  There are also occasions when this is also an advantage with the planning department to show the extent of the scheme and to place it in context of its surroundings.

Specification and Tendering

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A specification is a contractual document that itemises the building work and cross references it against the proposed drawings and any other documents that form part of the project.  This document can then be used to price the proposed works and if priced correctly by contractors, will itemise the costings.

A specification provides a level of control over the project, which includes, how things are carried out, choice of materials and costs.

The specification can also be used to specify specific materials and equipment that may want to be used in a project.  This can help to hone the clients thoughts over what they may require and we can assist in providing websites and show rooms that may be useful for the client to visit.

Once a specification is written, we can also assist with obtaining competitive estimates for the building works.  We have a list of contractors that we have worked with in the past, which will provide costings for the work.  Once we have received the estimates, we will then prepare a tender report with recommendations for the client.

Feasibility Studies

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We are often called to look at properties that are owned or prospective property owners, over options that could be available to either extend, convert, rebuild or refurbish.  Sometimes it is difficult to see the potential of what could be carried out, which is where we can provide assistance. We can provide advice from a construction, planning and building regulation point of view as well as assist with budget costing the building work.

There are also occasions when we are asked to look at the development potential of a site, where we can provide schematic designs, budget costs, as well guidance on the potential return from the site.

We can provide a plan over how to proceed with the project, which may consist of preparing scale drawings of the property, advising on any other consultants that may be required as part of the project and discussing the approach that will be required with the planning and building regulation process.

Generally a feasibility service can include:

  • Ascertaining client brief
  • Inspecting property/site and discuss potential options
  • Prepare draft proposals
  • Prepare budget costings for building work
  • Assess any impact the proposal may have with Planning and Building Regulation
  • Assess any other legal issues such as Party Wall etc Act  1996
  • Prepare outline planning applications.

Planning and Listed Building Applications

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We can advise on what planning implications could be imposed onto a property for the proposed works.  In various situations, properties have a permitted development right to extend or convert their property without submitting a planning application.

Permitted development can be given for works ranging from a garage conversion through to a loft conversion.  However, in all circumstances, we advise that a Certificate Of Lawful Development application is submitted to the Local Authority to provide the appropriate paperwork to confirm the permitted development.

We are happy to advise on your rights and also refer you to  https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200234/home_improvement_projects

If permitted development is not possible, most other applications will require a  Planning submission.  In these circumstances, we will advise on any potential problems with the proposal and what may need to be considered.

As part of this, we will also try to liaise with the Planning Department through the submission process to try and avoid potential issues.

If you are in a Listed Building, Conservation Area, National Park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty there can be other restrictions that will apply to your building.  We will work with you and the Local Authority to obtain consent.

In certain circumstances a specialist planning consultant will be required.  In these situations will advise accordingly and can recommend a consultant to work alongside us and you to prepare and submit a scheme.