Creative Architects Studio
Process
Catalyst Architects pride ourselves on providing a full architectural package no matter the project size, applying impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small, from conception to completion. Even the smallest project deserves to be the best it can be.
Initial Consultation
Our homes are very likely our most valuable asset. They play an integral role in our physical and mental wellbeing.
The process of designing, building or extending your home may feel daunting at first, so it makes sense to at least talk to an architect for advice before you get going.
Completely without obligation, we will discuss your ideas, get a feel for the context and scale of the project and the surroundings, and consider how your project would fit into the style of your home.
Taking your ideas and requirements, we can explore and expand them, offering our creative insights. Catalyst Architects will propose solutions and develop your ideas into a ‘brief’ that reflects your aspirations. Then together we can take your project to the next stage.
Layout Survey
Knowing what you have already is the foundation of a project and makes everything else run smoother.
Accurate drawings from the beginning is time and money well spent.
Often, we have a good feel of our familiar spaces, but have little concept of actual comparative sizes and dimensions. Not only are accurate drawings required for accurate scheme development and planning purposes, but existing layout plans are essential to help fully understand and visualise how the project will take shape. An extension is not simply something that is added to a building. It needs to work with the flow and the space that is already there, or it can look out of place.
For particularly large or complex properties or sites, it may be valuable to arrange for a specialist survey to be undertaken. This is often recommended for projects such as ‘New Builds’ or listed structures, where specialised information is required early on. Should the project benefit from such services, Catalyst Architects will advise and discuss this, and will happily procure a quote from a local company on your behalf.
Design Development
Applying impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small, Catalyst Architects strive to add value in all its forms, achieving the best return on your investment.
Some clients have a very clear idea of what they are picturing for the proposals but are unsure if they can commit or are properly prepared for a full planning application. Others know they simply require a change but are not sure how that change would materialise.
Catalyst Architects are firm believers of designing the project to suit your own needs, not tailoring them to meet specific applications or simply, “getting it through planning”.
Once we have a clear understanding of the “existing”, the “proposed” can be explored. Some projects are more limited practically than others, but it is always worth considering what you have and what you want, exploring possibilities you may not have even known existed.
Whether you are looking to start from scratch and explore feasibility options, or looking to develop a design idea, Catalyst Architects can help you get the best result and value for your project.
Planning
“Choose the application that suits the proposals, not design your proposals to suit an application”.
The planning process can be daunting. There are many Local Planning Authority (LPA) and Government hoops and hurdles, that can be complicated and off putting. At Catalyst Architects we tackle these hurdles on your behalf, acting as ‘Agent’ through the entire planning process, submitting the application and addressing any questions from the LPA, whilst always keeping you in the loop.
Catalyst Architects is a firm believer of designing the project to suit your own needs, not tailor them to meet specific applications or “getting it through planning”. Not every project will require planning permission, and it’s always worth exploring possibilities you may not have thought about, or even knew existed, not just think “this will do”. By considering your options, which with our help can be taken through the planning process as needed, you may be able to get closer to what you dream of, rather than what you thought you were limited to.
Working Drawings and Building Control
Catalyst Architects believe that a detailed understanding of the project is the secrete to a successful outcome for everyone.
Catalyst Architects believe in producing detailed working drawings, to help visualise and decide on the details and ergonomics of your project, from types of doors to socket positions. As importantly the final working drawings better inform builders, and can also be used to demonstrate compliance of building regulations.
When future contractors know the details of what is expected of them, they are able to give more accurate costings, making the tendering process more accurate and reliable.
Too many construction projects flounder because alterations and changes become necessary when inaccurate drawings meet the real world. We understand that effort making good, detailed, accurate drawings from the beginning is time and money well spent.
The Tendering Process
Approaching and choosing a builder can seem daunting.
Using the working drawing package, Catalyst Architects can invite contractors on your behalf, to price for the project.
A contractor can then be chosen by yourselves on the basis of not only cost, but availability, reputation, professionalism, and expected duration of the project. We are very familiar with this process and Catalyst Architects are with you throughout.
Contract Administration and Project Oversight
We would always advise a project uses a formal contract between the client and contractor.
Clarity over the likes of timings and costings, gives peace of mind taking much of the anxiety out of a project.
Catalyst Architects can source and collate the contract on your behalf, and then oversee the project as contract administer. Projects often evolve, and sometimes unexpected events can occur, a contract administrator can manage changes to the satisfaction of the client and contractor, allowing the project run smoothly and conflict free.
Make an enquiry
Catalyst Architects are there to assist will all aspects of your project, from conception to completion no matter the size.
Whether you are looking to start from scratch and explore feasibility options, or looking to develop a design idea, no matter the stage we can help you get the best result and value for your project.
