Design

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Before design work can commence, a measured site and / or building survey is required for which we normally obtain quotations on behalf of our clients for their instruction. Once the survey drawings are received we will prepare initial design proposals and within reason will produce as many iterations or amendments required to meet the aspirations of our clients, including any 3D visualisations where these form part of the agreed services.

Our aim is to produce high quality buildings which meet the needs of our clients.That is achieved by taking account of the constraints and context of the site or building, planning and building regulation issues.

Sustainability is fundamental to good design and we aim to produce designs that minimise carbon emissions and energy consumption. This always starts with passive measures, such as considering the orientation of glazing, the inclusion of high levels of insulation and high levels of air tightness, but also includes consideration of how renewable technologies can be integrated, whether in the form of solar thermal or PV panels, ground or air source heat pumps or biofuel sources.

Teamwork is the key to achieving success and we are good at listening as well as proposing ideas so the goals and solutions for a project are developed through collaboration. One of the greatest joys of design is finding elegant solutions to problems, whether these are in the programme of the building, overcoming planning restrictions or in the way elements of the building are juxtaposed.

Design is a collaborative process and we believe the benefits of developing projects through collaborative relationships are fundamental. For us design is an interactive process with input from all interested parties, not the imposition of a single abstract vision. This approach leads seamlessly into procurement and construction where ideas are refined and if necessary adapted to achieve the optimum outcome.