Each element of our design process can be provided as a stand-alone service or integrated into a package of solutions. We agree client sign-off on design decisions prior to moving onto the next stage.
Concept design
We begin generating preliminary ideas to solve the brief in response to the constraints and opportunities identified during the feasibility stage. Using advanced 2D and 3D drawing tools we start exploring options to compare costs and consider buildability. Having assessed the initial site investigation surveys, we liaise with the geoenvironmental and geotechnical specialists to manage additional site assessments required and highlight any concerns.
We have excellent working relationships with many local authorities, statutory bodies, and key stakeholders, and facilitate early engagement to evaluate any known restrictions. Our early risk mitigation improves the likelihood of successful technical approvals and a smooth construction stage.
We explore the feasibility of integrating sustainable drainage techniques, as a cost-effective way to reduce the environmental impact of new or remodelled developments. We can undertake hydraulic analysis and simulation modelling of the proposed drainage systems using specialist software.
To assist with costing, we can prepare a 3D site model to assess the topography, site parameters, and the potential cut and fill volumes if required. We will continue working with the architect and landscape architect to sculpt the topography and adapt to changing design requirements. Using industry-recognised embodied carbon life cycle calculation tools, we can compare a variety of construction methods and structural materials that meet the design aspirations and reduce carbon outputs.
Detailed design
We develop the agreed concept design, refining the proposals ready to apply for technical approvals. We liaise with stakeholders to incorporate the requirements of the local authority planning and highways, statutory undertakers, and the needs of neighbouring sites or buildings.
An integral part of our role is collaboration with the design team to respond to specific or newly identified restrictions and requirements. We challenge ourselves to design-out unnecessary engineering features and refine our solutions to improve value for money. Our high-quality solutions follow best practice guidelines and can go beyond the minimum requirements for technical approval if it will benefit the scheme.
Structural proposals
We work closely with the architect and building services engineers to prepare detailed drawings and a 3D model that precisely illustrate of all parts of the structure and how they fit together.
Civil proposals
We coordinate with the architect, building services engineer, and the geotechnical/ geoenvironmental engineer, to provide a detailed design drawing package containing plans, sections, and 3D models. Our clear description of the final proposals enables accurate estimates of the build cost, and will include the ground levels and earthworks strategy, proposed road layouts and junctions, and the surface water and foul water drainage design.
By the end of this stage, we will have verified that our solutions remain economically viable for the construction phase, often through participation in robust value engineering strategy.
