K U F I C  A R C H I T E C T S

Guidance

"A good architect pays for themselves more than once"

The RIBA stages of work

Our schedule of services are normally structured according to the RIBA Plan of Work 2020. This is an 8 stage process covering all aspects of your build. A helpful chart explaining these stages can be found at here

The plan notes activities which take place at each stage. A brief summary of this is included for your reference below:

Stage 0 - Strategic Definition

This is an opportunity to consider your requirements and establish whether there is need for construction work. Where a clear need is established, an Architect will then be selected and engaged. It is important to note down your desired outcomes, referred to as your 'Strategic Brief'. This will evolve but at this stage, plays an important role in starting the design process.

The success of your project will be largely influenced by the quality of your brief; how well you are able to communicate your requirements to your team. 

Stage 1 - Preparation and Brief

  Having analysed the site and context of the project, we undertake some preliminary appraisals to assess the options available and the feasibility of each. Our sketch design proposals will help further develop your brief and enable you to decide the best way forward. It will also help identify the need for other consultants. A clear understanding of timing and budget will influence these initial sketches so will be defined early on.

Stage 2 - Concept Design

We take your Initial Brief and develop it into a Final Brief, presenting our conceptualised solutions to achieve your requirements. If appropriate, we will liaise with the Local Planning Authority for this. The project brief should be finalised at the end of this stage and should provide a detailed, accurate reflection of your requirements. Changes to your brief after this point will demand reassessment of budget, programme, and quality.     

Stage 3 - Developed Design

Alongside other consultants, your conceptual design is developed into a package of design documentation at this stage. Typically this will include existing and proposed site plans, plans, sections, and elevations, often accompanied by a Design and Access Statement. Once finalised and agreed, this package is submitted for planning approval.

Stage 4 - Technical Design

Under a traditional building contract, contractors require a detailed package of information in order to accurately price a construction project. This usually includes setting out drawings, detailed plans, sections, elevations, a specification, schedule of works, and schedules for fixtures and fittings. The planning process also provides an opportunity to populate schedules so once consent is in place, we can prepare a comprehensive suite of information and get a price for a complete project. We will invite and appraise tenders on your behalf. We will also submit information for Building Regulations approval where required. 

Stage 5 - Construction

Once a builder/contractor has been appointed, we will formalise a contract with both parties stipulating the time, cost and particulars of the project. We act as contract administrators, checking the build is in accordance with the contract documents, certifying payments and extensions of time, and responding to queries. Once the project is ready for 'handover' we will inspect and issue a 'practical completion' certificate.

Stage 6 - Handover and closeout

6-12 months after 'practical completion', we will certify the final payment to conclude the 'rectification period'. This period identifies any defects arising from shrinkage and workmanship, which the contractor will make good. The 'retention', a sum of money in the contract is held back until this is carried out.