What is an initial consultation?

An initial consultation is an informal yet informative discussion regarding a client’s ideas, aspirations and feasibility for a home extension/renovation project. It’s a perfect opportunity to clarify and confirm queries pertaining to the design process whilst intuitively deciding whether a designer is the right fit for you. There are often several pertinent elements which will inform the overall brief. Please note that this list is not exhaustive.

01

Project Brief

A project is driven by a concise brief, typically there is problem which requires resolving such as a lack of space or a floor plan that no longer practically serves a homeowner. Extending or renovating a home increases its overall footprint which creates an opportunity to accommodate additional spaces or enlarge existing spaces. A schedule of accommodation is a list of prioritised spaces which the proposed design should incorporate. Clients often peruse Pinterest and have an image of what they hope can be achieved. Using our expertise, we bridge the gap between an idea and its actualisation. An initial discussion typically take place via phone/video call which is followed up with a scheduled site visit.  

02

Site Visit

Visiting the property is invaluable as it assists in determining the feasibility of a project brief and whether it can be brought to fruition. Identifying parameters is crucial as this will influence the final design. The property, immediate site and surrounding context will also help to determine if planning permission would be required. A few crucial considerations are as below.

• Is the property listed or in a conservation area?

• Can the site comfortably accommodate a development whilst providing sufficient private amenity space?

• Could a development affect a neighbour’s privacy/right of light?

• Will car parking provisions be compromised by a development?

• How does daylight orientate around the property?

• Is the property sufficiently insulated and would existing elements require upgrading?

• Will existing structural elements be impacted?

• Are there any manholes/public sewer pipes which will be affected by a development?  

03

Budget

A budget drives and significantly determines the direction of a project. It can impact the below.

• Additional footprint to be gained via an extension

• Removal of structural walls and specification of steels including other necessary components

• Relocation of manholes (if required)

• External/internal finishes

• Quantity/specification of proposed glazing (bi-folding doors, sliding doors, Crittall glazing, roof-lights etc.)

• Inclusion of hardscaping/landscaping

• Project timeline

04

Design Process

A transparent conversation is both conducive and prudent as a client will know what to expect from the outset. The design process will be tailored to the nature and complexity of each project; however, it typically consists of the below.

1. Measured survey

2. Existing/proposed drawings

3. Design consultation to discuss scheme and implement iterations

4. Planning application submission and management (can take between 8-13 weeks but subject to variation)

5. Building regulation drawings which comprehensively explore the layers of a design and aid contractors in providing quotations

6. Design coordination which involves liaison with third-party consultants such as structural engineers and building control  

7. Site visits which can be either formal/informal and ensure that the integrity of the initial design is maintained

05

Quote

Following a site visit, a no-obligation quote is compiled and outlines the agreed services and overall design fee. If all parties are happy, the journey begins!