Services

At Studio Scaramanga, we design spaces with purpose, character, and longevity. By combining conservation expertise with innovative, sustainable design, we create architecture that respects its context, enriches everyday life, and stands the test of time.

Renovations

New Builds

Extensions

Barn conversions

Sustainable retrofit

Our Approach

Following the RIBA Plan of Works

Stage 1-2 

Concept, brief and initial design: Unveiling your vision

Our journey begins with a thorough understanding of your aspirations and requirements. Through collaborative discussions, we delve into the essence of your project, ensuring that every idea and expectation is considered. With this we start the initial design. We work into the general space planning and form to define the scale, scope and budget. 

  • An idea of what to expect:

    • Initial consultation and follow up with a confirmation of the brief.

    • Design presentation with an A3 sketchbook of ideas.

    • Production of pre-application documents (for submission to the local authorities).

    • Budget advice based on general sqm rate.

    • Cost checks by third party quantity surveyors (we know some good ones we can recommend)

Stage 3

Design development and planning permission submission.

Building upon the approved concept, we will develop the design. We start to build the consultant team around the project and collate all the required information in preparation for local authority consents. The design moves from sketch ideas to CAD plans in this next step on your exciting journey.

  • An idea of what to expect:

    • For accurate measured plans an existing site and building survey will be required by a third party surveyor. (If it has not already been carried out)

    • Coordinating the other consultants required in the build up to a planning submission. Arboriculture, ecology, highways, heritage and planning etc (This is all site dependant).

    • Production of existing and proposed CAD drawings (floorplans).

    • Some local authorities require renovations and extensions to show a 20% decrease in carbon emissions. We will coordinate with a 3rd party assessor for this information.

    • Some local authorities require new build houses to be carbon neutral. We will coordinate with a 3rd party assessor for this information.

    • Producing and collating the relevant information required for a planning submission.

    • Online submission of applications to local authorities.

    • Monitoring and communicating with the local authority during the 8 week determination period.

RIBA Stage 4

Technical design, detail drawings and tender submission.

Now that you have local authority approvals we move forward adding detail to the design. In this phase we carefully detail materials and construction methods ensuring we merge aesthetics with sustainable materials in accordance with your brief. The consultation team grows as we include structural, civil, mechanical and electrical engineers.

  • This is the largest stage of work for the architects and we can develop every aspect of your design. Regular coordination meetings with the other consultants add layer upon layer of detail culminating in a tender package to send out to a contractor.

    We provide two options depending on how much involvement you want from us. 

    Stage 4a - We work up all the information needed to gain building control sign off. We work closely with the building control officer or consultant and deliver a design package.

    Stage 4b - Full details drawings and specification which include all internal fixture and fittings. We have even gone so far as to design bespoke furniture for spaces. This level of detail allows you to retain control over the design during construction. A complete design service.

    An idea of what to expect:

    • Develop the detailed design and produce comprehensive architectural drawings.

    • Regular design team reviews to coordinate the consultant team integrating the structural, civil, mechanical, electrical and sustainable designs.

    • Building Regulations Compliance: Ensure compliance with building regulations and planning requirements obtaining the necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.

    • Material and product sample reviews with the client.

    • Site visits with the client to review construction techniques or see examples of technology.

    • A coordinated 3rd Party cost estimation from a quantity surveyor.

    • Value engineering if required: Optimise costs without compromising quality by exploring alternative materials and methods.

    • Constant communication with the client on progress, design decisions and contract advice.

    • Issue tender documentation to 3 contractors to facilitate a competitive tendering process. 

    • Produce the construction design and management (CDM) risk plan and pre construction health and safety file as the Principle Designer.

    • Pre-construction meetings with stakeholders to clarify design intent, CDM and address questions or concerns.

5. Construction

As construction commences, our involvement is dependant on your project, budget and experience with a contractor. During the early briefing we will discuss this and define our services on a project by project basis. 

  • An idea of what to expect:

    • Weekly, fortnightly or monthly site meetings with the contractor and the client (project dependant)

    • Review of subcontractor submitted drawings.

    • Respond to contractor or client question about the design.

    • Develop client changes 

    • Prepare a snagging list before practical completion.

    We also provide Contract Administration services. This forms a separate service contract.

6. Handover: Your vision realised

The moment you've been waiting for. The contractor has left site and you get to move in. Your contract defects period will now kick in and we will be there to assist with anything that arises during this 6-12 month period.

  • An idea of what to expect:

    • Excitement as you move into your new space.

    • Design guidance for any defects that occur.

    • Installation of bespoke furniture or advise with fit-out

    • Final certificate following the defect period (it is the role of the contract administrator to issue this).

    • The retention fee is now due to the contractor and the project is complete.