At Peveril Design Consultancy (PDC) we can provide a full range of architectural services, from the initial concept design through to preparing and submitting planning and building control applications. We can provide 3D images, technical detailing and if required contract administration.

Whether you require a full design complete with construction details and specifications or just a concept scheme we are flexible and able to work to your specific needs. The core services we can provide are listed below;

The Initial Meeting

The first step on any project is the initial meeting, during which we will run through the following;

• An initial assessment of the works whether large or small.
• Establish your design aspirations in relation to your budget.
• Discuss and if possible analyse the proposed site.
• Determine/clarify the scope of work and to what level PDC can be involved.
• Discuss and agree fees – these will be followed up with a formal written quotation.

This first meeting will give us chance to develop a project ‘brief’ by running through your specific requirements establishing your design preferences and determine any important features about the site or surrounding area you may have.

We will outline the scope of work required for your project, whether large or small and the level of involvement you require from PDC. From this we will develop detailed fee proposals.

The Design Process

On smaller commercial projects, it may be that all you need is some design inspiration and guidance on initiating your proposed development.  We first ascertain your requirements in the form of a detailed brief, which may include images, material ideas, space requirements and concept ideas.  We then expand on these to create a sketch scheme in both 2D and 3D. The brief is a vital part of the design process, helping establish and consider what is important to you. 

The design process is very much a collaboration between the client and architect and so we will require your feedback as we go along. We appreciate developing a concept design may take time and require updating and changing as things progress we therefore have a flexible approach allowing schemes to develop organically in line with your thoughts and requirements. 

Planning Procedures

The majority of projects that we work on will require planning permission. Depending upon the type and size of development this may be a full plan, outline or a pre-planning application. 

If the project is located in a conservation area or near/part of a listed building we can liaise with the necessary government and environmental agencies to achieve the necessary planning approval. We can also work with independent consultants and will advise of any specialist input which may be required. 

Building Regulations 

Where required, we are able to provide you with full detailed drawings and specifications necessary for building regulations submission. Any construction work undertaken in the UK is required to be approved by a licensed building control inspector, ensuring the building works are carried out in line with current regulations.

 We are able to provide you with detailed drawings for this submission, working closely with both your appointed structural engineer and approved inspector. 

We are happy to give more advice on the above, and are able to suggest both local engineers and approved inspectors if required. 

Schedule of Works, Tendering & Contractor Appointment 

In order to produce accurate costings for your building, we produce a comprehensive schedule of works to be issued alongside our construction drawings for pricing.  This schedule list outs in detail the work to be carried out, minimizing the risk of things being missed on site or additional costs being requested.  

As part of this we can also produce detailed internal layouts, detailing bathrooms or bespoke joinery items, and including any internal finishes you may have selected. 

We will discuss with you the most appropriate way of pricing the works and any contractors we feel may be suitable, as well as tendering the project and assisting with the appointment of the selected party. 

Contract Administration 

The role of the architect as Contract Administrator is to ensure that the works are carried out in accordance with the contract.  Through carrying out site visits, valuations and being on hand to answer any queries, we aim to make the construction process much more straightforward for you.

Our involvement in this process more often means that the original architectural intent of the proposal is able to be retained, and that any requests for additional payments etc. are able to be verified by ourselves, rather than you having to rely on the input of the contractor alone.

Ultimately it is our intention that the construction process goes as smoothly for you as possible.