How we
actually work.
Every commission is different. Our method is not. We move through four phases together, at a pace that lets the building breathe.
A METHOD, NOT A STYLE
01
Conversation
We start with a long, slow conversation. About how you live, work or want to. We listen more than we draw.
02
Drawing
Hand Drawings first, then plans. We test ideas until we achieve the perfect design for you.
03
Detailing
We detail carefully, so the important junctions are resolved on paper before they are built.
04
Building
We visit site at the key stages, working with a small circle of craftspeople we trust.
01.
Conversation
We meet you in your space, sit with you, and listen. We talk about how you live or work, and how you think you’d like to in the future.
The early meetings are about you, not us - so we spend them listening rather than presenting. By the meeting we'll have written a brief together: not a list of rooms, but a short document about how the building should feel.
02.
Drawing
We hand draw the original idea and transition this to design in 3D, testing each idea as a model and a set of visuals before it's resolved. Seeing a space in the round - light, proportion, materials - tells us quickly whether it works.
You'll see the design develop in stages. We'll talk each version through with you and refine it together. By month six or sooner we'll have a planning application.
MONTH 1-3 Concept Design, Hand sketches, Study Model, Visuals
MONTH 3-5 Developed Design ready for planning submission
WEEK 1 Initial Conversations, Site visits, brief writing, Fee proposal
WEEK 2 - 4 Existing measurement and Existing Property drawings
03.
Once planning is approved, we move into detail. We coordinate with structural engineers, M&E consultants, and quantity surveyors and other consultants.
This is allow us to achieve Building control sign off and work towards the building stage of the project.
WEEK 4 - 5 Feasibility study, Pre-application
Detailing
MONTH 6 Planning submission
DELIVERABLES Drawings, models, Planning pack
DELIVERABLES Initial Conversations, Site visits, brief writing
04.
Building
We stay close to the build, working with a small circle of craftspeople we trust - joiners, stonemasons, brick-layers - most of whom have built more than one of our projects.
We respond to changes quickly, changing details when they need to change, and visits at every key milestone. We don’t disappear during construction; we believe the building drawings is the same drawing as the design drawing.
MONTH 6 - 9 Technical Design, tender pack preparation
MONTH 10 Tender to shortlist of 3-4 contractor
MONTH 11 Contractor appointment, Mobilisation
DELIVERABLES Building Regs pack, Full tender pack
MONTH 12 - 18 Construction, regular site visits
MONTH 18 Practical completion, snagging
MONTH 19 Handover, Photography, post occupancy
DELIVERABLES Completed building
QUESTION CLIENTS ASK
Q.01
How long does a project take?
A typical house: 14-18 months from first conversation to handover. A workplace: 18 - 24 months. A heritage building: Longer, depending on planning.
Q.02
What does it cost?
Our fees are typically based on the construction cost for a full RIBA service (Stage 1-6). We agree fees in writing before starting work.
Q.03
Do you work outside North England?
Yes. We take on client outside north of England and North Wale.,
Q.04
Do you do small projects?
We work on extensions and single-room renovations as well as whole buildings, residential developments and work place buildings.
Q.05
How will we meet?
Usually at your home or the site itself - it’s the best way to understand a project. Early conversations can also happen by phone or video call.
Q.06
Are you taking new works?
We’re currently open to new commissions. Get in touch as early as you can.
STUDIO
Process
WORK
Residential
Workplace
Heritage
Mixed Use
ELSEWHERE
Newsletter→