Our Servicesto different clients requirements

• • Architecture
• • Interior Design
• • Planning & Masterplanning
• • Building Regulations
• • Project Management

 

• Benefits of using a "SOLE PRACTITIONER" architect

• Using a local “Sole Practitioner - Eye For Detail Architects” has a number of advantages in our current economic recession over a larger architectural practices – “Low Overheads & Competetive Costs to Clients”. Remember our quality skills & design services will be designed to tailor fit around your budget "Clients" requirements.

• As a local sole-practicing architect Paul is approachable and having to deal with every aspect of running a business rather than a "small cog in a BIG wheel" can compete on complex projects similar to a larger practice, using a technology platform that “mimics a virtual office” A powerful interface called an FTP makes it easy to sort through files and set up complex rules on sharing, privacy protection, and distribution to deliver large office services at sole-practitioner prices by collaboration with other “Sole Practitioners".

• Who can benefit from using of using "EYE FOR DETAIL ARCHITECTS"

• • Home Owner/Plot Owner
• • Selfbuilders
• • Developer

 

• What work is the architect involved in?

• Surveying the building/plots of land (measures study)
• Designing new buildings, alterations / extensions to existing buildings, masterplanning estates and cities
• Interior design and refurbishment
• Administration of building contracts & Supervising works on site
• Acting as the client’s agent in the securing of Planning permission and Building Regulations approval
• Acting as the client’s agent in appealing against the rejection of Planning and Building Regulations applications
• Writing specifications and schedules of work

• Architects are not involved in these activities...

• Carry out building works
• Price building works
• Carry out structural surveys for conveyance purposes
• Guarantee buildings or building works
• Carry out land registry or local authority searches
• Guarantee planning approval

• How does the architect charge for their services?

• Depends on the scale and nature of the works and what services you require, but remember the intial consultation is free (as long as the distance to the appointment is reasonable)
• Can charge on a fixed fee for basic works, hourly rate or percentage of construction costs
• We have fixed rates for expenses, such as printing drawings and OS maps, travel etc

• What is discussed at the initial meeting?

• Under RIBA guidelines, the initial consultation is free - unless it is economically not viable then a cost needs to be set aside & agreed prior to the meeting for traveling costs.
• Architect will visit you at the plot/property of land to view the site and discuss your needs and budget, the feasibility of the project, the services you require and the most appropriate fee structure
• You will then receive a written quotation for the architectural works, detailing what happens at each stage

• What is the next process once I have received the quotation?

• Once quotation is acceptable, sign and return one copy. This then constitutes an agreement between the client and architect, in accordance with our terms and conditions
• You are under no obligation to accept the quotation, but we would appreciate it if you let us know if you don't want to proceed.

• What will the building work cost?

• Architects are not qualified to give advice on building works costs
• If you need accurate pricing of the works, you would need the services of a Quantity Surveyor, we can recommend one for you if you decide to appoint one
• We can prepare a detailed specification of the works to tender to several contractors to obtain prices for the building works

• How long will it take?

• Every scheme is different, so the length of time will vary. However, there are some fixed time scales
• Initial survey to first sketch scheme usually takes between one and two weeks. Clients usually then want to make some revisions to the scheme, this may evolve and the revision process will go on for as long as it takes to arrive at a final scheme.(a cut off period should be agreed)
• Full planning applications should take between eight to ten weeks to determine from receipt of the application
• Full Building Regulations applications should take six weeks to determine from receipt of application
• Alternatively a Building Regulations notice can be made with Building Control officers inspections
• Tendering to contractors for pricing takes four weeks

• Do I need to employ any other consultants?

• Other consultants may be required including the services of a structural engineer if any structural works are involved. Depending on the size and complexity of the scheme you may also need the services of a Party Wall surveyor, a planning supervisor, a mechanical/electrical engineer. We may be able to recommend these services, but they would be appointed and paid directly by you

• Why do I have to pay the architect before work starts on site?

• You will be surprised to know that 80% of an architect's work is carried out before the building works starts,in surveying/measured study, designing, obtaining local authority approvals, preparing tenders and specifications, obtaining prices from contractors and suppliers, preparing contracts and getting contractors started on site. Remember the earlier you get us involved the better, even before you speak to the builders. Never part with any cash up front with any builders - we are here to advise you, that's all part of our service in looking after you - when you or your friends who may be looking to have some building work carried out become our "Client"
• When the building works have started on site, the architect will supervise the job by making regular site visits and dealing with additions/alterations/omissions to the works carried out
• The architect does not run the job on site - this responsibility is with the "Contract Manager" who may be the contractor's site manager