Abosie Process
Abosie Architects appreciate that no two projects are the same and that is why we offer a tailored approach to each individual client. Offering full transparency when it comes to the process and fees involved in your build is important to us. Our general guide shows each of the project phases and how we approach them.
Consultation
The initial contact to discuss your project and agreement of project fees & deliverables.
Once contacted Abosie Architects will review your project details and aim to arrange an initial free consultation. This can either be on site, at our office or a virtual meeting.
Following the consultation we provide a detailed fee proposal for your consideration. Abosie use standard RIAS appointment documents to formalise agreements in order to ensure transparency and to protect all parties with relevant insurances.
Feasibility Study
Commencement of relevant surveys and presentation of initial design options.
Once appointed we will work with you to develop and refine your project design brief and budget. We are guided by your requirements and personal taste yet respectfully challenge these, so that together we ensure the best possible design outcome. It is also at this stage we undertake and commission any required surveys.
The exciting bit of the project takes form when we present our initial design options using our interactive software.
We use a free downloadable app so you can view the drawings and walk through the 3D model of your designs using the built-in virtual reality function with your very own Abosie headset.
The amazing part is our 3D software provides far greater accuracy and efficiency in comparison to traditional 2D drawing processes. This means you get the advantage of the latest industry software whilst saving not only on design fees but often on overall build costs too.
Design Development
Development of the initial design options to a finalised design.
Once you have seen the initial options, we work with you to refine and develop these to reach your preferred finalised design. Our 3D software allows us to demonstrate live changes, meaning you can see us alter your design in real time.
Key decisions we guide you through include construction methods and finishing materials. We also consider which renewables and sustainability features may benefit your project and can advise on sources of grants and funding.
We also use additional software to review sun paths to ensure we intelligently consider year round natural daylighting and solar gains.
There are also options to commission a budget cost analysis for the build at this stage too.
Planning Application
A formal submission to the local council to obtain permission for a design.
Planning applications generally relate to external appearance factors such as the location, size, aesthetic and materials of a project.
In some instances permitted development rights can apply in which case a planning application will not be required. We can advise on this.
For projects where a planning application is required we will create the appropriate package of drawings and supporting paperwork to manage the submission on your behalf.
For some projects there may be a requirement for certain third party reports, such as bat, tree and drainage surveys. These will have been highlighted at the consultation and fee proposal stage.
The council will usually take at least 8 weeks to determine your application, and a processing fee is payable to them.
Building Warrant
A formal submission to the local council to obtain permission for the technical design of a project.
Building warrant applications indicate how a project is constructed and how it complies with building regulations, such as insulation, heating, drainage, electrics and the construction build up of floors, walls and roofs.
Building warrants are required for the vast majority of projects. We will create the appropriate package of drawings and supporting paperwork to manage the submission on your behalf.
A structural engineer will be needed at this stage. We can assist with this appointment and obtain preferential rates using our established professional collaborations.
We integrate the structural design within our virtual built model. This allows us to clash detect and ensure considered build-ability to avoid commonplace and costly oversights on site.
Construction Phase
The process of building and completing your project on site.
Usually a main contractor will project manage your build. They will be responsible for any sub-contractors, material orders and completing your project on time.
Our range of ad-hoc support services can be applied at this stage, whether it be issuing compliance notices to the council or a reassuring site inspection.
For those who appoint us contract managers, we provide regular site inspections alongside a quantity surveyor. Together we apply the building contract and manage the staged release of funds to the contractor until the project is completed.
Abosie can also provide CMLs (Certificates of Mortgage Lending) which are particularly relevant to new build houses and can only be signed off by Chartered Architects.