We design exciting and innovative projects within budget, delivering a premium service with clear fee structures.
Working closely with you, local planning authorities, and other consultants we offer a high quality and personalised design service. With our transparent and creative approach we continually communicate and help you to visualise through sketching and 3D models – ensuring you are engaged with and enjoy the process.
At Tobias Weaver Architect we offer a full range of architectural services across all stage of the RIBA Plan of Work, from briefing and feasibility, concept design and planning applications, through to building regulations, tender and overseeing construction work on site as contract administrators.
As with most architects our fees for a project are based on the anticipated construction cost for your project, or your budget. We are cost conscious, regularly balancing the projects projected construction cost with the budget, ensuring that the projected cost is realistic, for the complexity and scale of the project.
The below suite of stages is based on a 'Full Architects Service' in which we can tailor our scope and role to your project requirements and programme.
D E S I G N P R O C E S S
S E R V I C E S I N C L U D E
Stage 1 P R E P A R A T I O N S E R V I C E S
To understand your aspirations for a project the starting point is to listen to your ambitions and ideas, along with any other specific requirements. This is also the opportunity to answer any initial queries on process, budget and timescales.
Starting by exploring the potential options for the project, carrying out feasibility studies to assess different ideas with you, considering the advantages and disadvantages of each scheme. This is a fun process, developing the initial response through sketches to test ideas and establish the strategic brief.
We provide a summary report with advice relating to different aspects of the project (planning, cost, time etc) as well as a schedule of fees for us to progress the project with you. It is important in the early stages to have a clear understanding of the desired outcomes and constraints. This stage compiles the necessary information before any design work commences and sets the standard for design options.
Most projects begin with an initial design consultation, the cost of which is deducted from our initial fee if you choose to proceed with us.
- Site Finding
- Measured Survey
- Project Brief
- Project Programme
P R O J E C T B R I E F
Stage 2 C O N C E P T D E S I G N
The design is developed in both 2D and 3D using sketches, CAD drawings, and models, to allow you to begin visualising the project. As the scheme becomes more detailed we are also able to advise on any necessary design consultants for the project, such as Structural Engineers, Party Wall Surveyors, Heritage, Ecologists, etc.
At the point of achieving an outline design, depending on the complexity and site sensitivity, we often look to submit an informal pre-application to seek advice, and engage with the local authority.
- Feasibility Studies
- Financial Appraisals for Development
- Pre-Application Submissions
- Outline Planning Applications
- Permitted Development and Prior Approval Applications
C O S T P L A N
Stage 3 S P A C I A L C O O R D I N A T I O N
We focus the project to a preferred option, coordinating the proposals with structural and service considerations, whilst developing the architecture. This process allows us to ensure the architectural elements, and build-ups are sufficiently sized to comply with building regulation standards.
This information will then be developed ready for the planning application. Following the submission to the local planning authority we will liaise with the planners until determination.
- Planning Applications
- Listed Building Consents
- Conservation Area Consents
- Planning Consultancy
- Interior Design
- Landscape Design
P L A N N I N G A P P L I C A T I O N
Stage 4 T E C H N I C A L D E S I G N
Further to achieving planning permission we will move into the technical detailing phase of the project. We produce a pack of detailed drawings and specifications which are submitted to Building Control, and prepare tender information so a contractor can accurately price and construct the project.
Undertaking a competitive tender with a minimum of 3 contractors offers you the opportunity to compare pricing with confidence. Subject to the required architectural input we can manage the tender process, identifying and shortlisting suitable contractors for your project.
- Working Drawings
- Tendering packages
- Building Regulations Drawings
- Tender Reviews and Value Engineering
B U I L D I N G C O N T R O L S U B M I S S I O N
Stage 5 C O N S T R U C T I O N
The level of architectural scope through construction can be tailored to suit the project requirements. We can provide contract administration services and attend regular site visits to monitor progress in line with the construction drawings and specifications.
It is advisable following the appointment of the contractor for an architect to carry out site visits throughout construction to help manage the quality of the building and have impartial control of finances, This helps to avoid disputes and ensure the works are carried out as intended.
- Detailed Construction Information
- Contract Administration
- Project Management
- Procurement of Client Supply Items
P R A C T I C A L C O M P L E T I O N
Stage 6 H A N D O V E R
At the end of the construction we undertake final site inspections, and produce defects lists to guide the contractor’s works. We also liaise with Building Control to ensure that all regulatory requirements have been satisfied, allowing the issue of the Completion Certificate.
F I N A L C E R T I F I C AT E
