About us
Design philosophy
The practice believes in producing designs that are both elegant and efficient, that satisfy the client’s need for a building on time and within budget. To achieve this aim we work closely with our clients from the outset to ensure a personal service that guides them through the often unfamiliar processes of design and construction.
All drawing information is produced on CAD, which enables us to e-mail data and keep in close contact with our clients across the UK.
Selection of contractor
We realise the importance of selecting the right contractor for a particular type and size of project. We keep a regularly updated list of contractors on file and we will always investigate the quality and nature of their work before including them on any tender list.
Construction phase
As an architectural practice, our duties under the JCT forms of contract are those of an administrator, acting in the best interests of both client and contractor. We will make regular site visits during the progress of works, issue architect instructions, where necessary, and ensure that the work is being carried out in accordance with the drawings and specification. Before the contractor leaves site, it is our responsibility to check that all the works have been carried out in accordance with the drawings and specification. The building is released to the client only when we are sure that the contractor has fulfilled his duties under the terms of the contract. A retention amount, usually 5% of the contracted sum, is held back from all payments to the contractor to ensure that such remedial work, as is required, is carried out. Half of this will be released when the building is handed over to the client. The remaining amount is retained by the client for the duration of the defects liability period.
Completion and feedback
After the building has been occupied, there follows a defects liability period for the contractor, usually of 6 months duration. When this has ended, we will make a final inspection of the works and instruct the contractor to carry out any remedial works for which he is responsible. On satisfactory completion, the outstanding retention money is released along with a final certificate. We appreciate that this is probably only the beginning of a long occupation of the building by the owner. We do endeavour to keep in touch with our clients, monitoring the performance of the building and advising on maintenance programmes and any other problems that may arise during occupation.