When considering the budget, it is important to look at the overall project costs and not just the construction costs. This can be considered in terms of hard and soft costs. Hard costs refer to the cost of physical construction - foundations, finishes, labour, equipment, fixed furniture and fittings etc. Soft costs are not directly related to construction and include items such as professional fees, VAT, financing costs, statutory approval fees, insurance and any specialist consultants. Whilst costs vary between individual projects, a typical project would see the cost breakdown divided approximately 50 / 50 between hard and soft costs.
The Process
THE PROCESS
Stage 1 – The Brief - Uncovering Opportunities
We’ll arrange an initial site visit and review core information, familiarising ourselves with all aspects of your project. We work with our clients to identify potential development opportunities at your site or property whilst firming up budgets and setting out a project programme.
Stage 2 – Initial Design - First Impressions
The creation of a design response based on the brief, as set out in Stage 1. Working with you, we explore initial design responses to the site, scrutinising the brief to find the best design solution. We offer VR imagery as standard, allowing you to immerse yourself into the designs, ensuring you can visualise the proposals.
Stage 3 - Planning Consent Application -
Design Approval
This important step represents the first statutory approval that must be obtained in order to bring your project to life. We shall consult with local authorities and utilities as necessary, create a comprehensive package of drawings and we’ll offer advise of the procurement route. Based on this stage 3 information, an initial project costing may be procured from a Quantity Surveyor.
Stage 4 - Building Warrant Application -
Technical Design
The design is further developed to meet technical standards as set out within Building Regulations. This includes technical layouts, detailing and specifications developed to ensure your project meets the highest in safety and environmental standards. You will also require the services of an engineer, who shall independently assess proposals and certify the building structure.
Stage 5 - Tender - Preparing To Build
It is at this stage that the project really comes to life, with a package of information prepared, ready to be issued to a hand selected list of contractors. Once tenders have been returned, we prepare a comparison document in order to clarify your options. Factors such as pricing, availability and track record shall be reviewed, in order to find the contractor that provides the best match for your specific requirements.
Stage 6 - Construction + Handover
The much anticipated build can begin once you have formally appointed your contractor. We shall undertake regular site meetings, keeping you up to date on the progress of your project. We will be on hand to work with your contractor to solve any challenges that arise on site, ensuring the project remains on track and meets the highest standards of design.
This final stage is completed once construction has been finalised and we advise that your project has achieved practical completion. At this point, your journey is now complete and it’s time for you to sit back and enjoy your new home.
OUR FEES
Existing | Proposed | Construction | Completion
