services - ArchiLife

Stage by stage service to create your dream home

I offer a personalised stage by stage architectural service to suit your project and budget. Whether you require planning and building warrant applications or for me to administer the contract through to completion on site. I have professional experience of managing projects from initial brief to successful completion and can guide you through each stage.

1 Get in touch

Call or email me to discuss your project. I would love to hear about your property and the changes you would like to make. I can look at any photos, schedules or existing drawings to get an idea of what is possible to transform your property. I can also check if your building is listed or in a conservation area and how similar properties nearby have been altered. Then we can arrange a convenient time to meet at your property to get your project started.

2 Free 30 minute consultation

We will meet at your property to discuss what you like and what you would like to change. I will have a good look at the existing building and establish what alterations are possible. Following our consultation, you will receive a written design brief of your requirements and a fee proposal for my architectural services for the design and construction process. If you choose me as your architect I will prepare the Scottish Conditions of Appointment of an Architect to sign a formal appointment.

3 Measured survey

I will measure your property and prepare accurate drawings as required for your project. If you are extending externally, I will arrange a quote from a surveyor to measure the external space and levels.

4 Concept Design

I will develop plans and elevations of your alterations. Depending on the project there may be more than one option to consider. We can meet to discuss the design and make any adjustments. I will also check the relevant planning and building regulations to ensure the proposals are feasible. Now you will have a design ready to progress to planning, building warrant and construction.

5 Planning Application, Listed Building Consent, Certificate of Lawfulness

Depending upon the project you may require Planning Permission, Listed Building Consent or a Certificate of Lawfulness. I will develop the design and drawings to the level of detail required, and provide existing photos and design statement. I will lodge the application and liaise with planners as required.

6 Building Warrant

I will then develop the design in more detail for building warrant, resolving how it will be constructed. Structural engineers’ drawings and SER certificate shall be required for this stage. I can arrange a quotation from 2 structural engineers I work with regularly.

7 Tender

I will prepare a Description of Works and issue this together with the Building Warrant drawings to 3 builders to obtain tender prices. I will review the tender reports from the builders and advise on the appointment of the builder.

8 Construction

Depending upon the nature of your project, you can then employ the builder with a Homeowner Contract and get started with the building works. I will be available to come to site or answer any queries that may arise for my hourly rate. For more complex projects, I can act as contract administrator for the contract between you and the builder. I will organise regular site meetings to check progress of the works and payments due.