Our reputation in the prime and super-prime markets for strong delivery of projects, in particular the quality of detailed and technical design information we produce for every project, leads us to be regularly invited to partner with other signature designers to help deliver their design visions. We have worked with internationally-renowned firms such as Peter Marino and Olson Kundig on some of their residential projects in the UK, taking over their RIBA Stage 3 designs and producing and coordinating comprehensive detailed architectural and interior design packs for tender. In cases such as these we act as the Design Architect’s local eyes and ears, ensuring compliance with local regulations and managing the planning and licence to alter processes.
But our Executive Architect role is not reserved only for international designers; we frequently partner with UK Interior Designers on a wide range of projects in which they are the creative lead and we adapt our services to “fill in the blanks”, providing as much architectural support as necessary to ensure a robust and coordinated design.
We also have a framework agreement with Harrods, who partner us with signature designers on a huge variety of fit-out projects within their Brompton Road store.
What we do
We pride ourselves on providing a completely flexible service in our Executive Architect role, adapting our scope to dovetail perfectly with the Design Architect or Interior Designer. However, typically:
Brief
We will liaise with the Designers and Client at an early stage, contributing our experience to the development of a considered and thorough briefing document.
Appointments
If appointed in a Lead Consultant role, we will seek quotes from a number of suitable consultants with whom we have successfully worked in the past for each specialist design discipline and make recommendations.
Survey
We will carry out a full 3D measured survey of the plot or existing property from which the Designer can develop their design. If appropriate, we will engage in an initial dialogue with the local planning department.
Design Development and Planning
Allowing the Designer to take the creative lead we will contribute our experience and knowledge to the design process, building a 3D BIM model of the Designer’s concept and, if applicable, we will prepare and submit the planning application.
Technical design
At this stage we will typically take over responsibility for the completion of detailed technical drawings and specifications for the scheme, all fully coordinated with structure and services. Usually the Designer is retained as the guardian of the design during this process and advises on all matters relating to the architectural and interior design.
Tender
We will carefully assemble a shortlist of appropriate contractors and oversee a tender process with them in order to identify the most suitable contractor for the project.
Construction
We will act as Contract Administrator, ensuring the work is constructed in accordance with the design and the terms of the building contract.
Handover
We will work alongside the Designer to undertake a thorough inspection of the works at completion, identifying any snags to be remedied. We will certify practical completion when the project is completed in accordance with the contract and to the Client’s satisfaction.
Occupation
We will remain in touch with the Client in the months following occupation, including a return visit after 12 months for the final contractual defects inspections.