Design and delivery
No two projects are ever the same, each client has a set of different constraints, be that budget, existing building fabric, site topography and wider context or end user requirements, different factors all contributing to the time needed to design and build a home.
As the last few years have shown, our construction industry is heavily affected by the local, national, and international economic and political landscapes that surrounds us. Not just in terms of material costs or availability, but also in terms of the changing landscape both within the planning system and Building Control. New and ever-changing requirements often require the need of more consultants, more reports and more time to complete a project than it did before. This added to the factors surrounding the construction industry make this a challenging time for our profession and our clients.
The experience we have gained and the consultants we partner with, allow us to develop schemes that are creative but also practical. We can also break things down into sperate work stages and suggest timelines for each stage of a project.
How do we achieve this?
The modern architecture practice has come a long way from the drawing board that was once commonplace in every office. With the use of AutoCAD and Revit Suites, CROE Architects has the software and knowhow to deliver consistent information, that is both informative and visually detailed. With the experience of both software suites, CROE Architects has the right software for your project.
Revit & AutoCAD
Within the practice we have become accustomed to using Revit, a 3D software. Its uses are many, from commercial and larger developments, one of new builds to large refurbishments. The information provided is no longer only 2D in this form, allowing us to convey the proposed scheme with greater clarity. We are also able to link this to our visualisation software that allows clients to visualise the schemes in 3D.
AutoCAD is used within the practice on projects that require greater flexibility in the drawing space. We use it for heritage, conservation and listed works during the design and planning stage. We also use it for drafting complex detailing and building packages.
RIBA Stage: 0 - 1
Getting to know one another.
Stage 0 is about determining the best means of achieving the client’s requirements, reviewing clients base brief along with site, planning and budget constraints. An open mind is often required from us as the best design is not always the most straight forward. This leads on to Stage 1, as the brief is developed, and feasibility scheme start to fit the constraints of the project.
RIBA Stage: 2 - 3
Projects start to take shape.
Using information from stages 0 and 1 to get the design concept right, making sure the look and feel of the building is in line with the client’s vision, brief and budget. Using floorplans and 3D modelling we start to bring your vision into a built form. We don’t expect to get the design right first time, all the time. But rather using the process to push the boundaries of what’s possible and turning constrains into possibilities. The design development is to include foresight on possible construction methods and practicalities to avoid major revisions at stage 4,. Once the scheme has been developed and finalised the planning applications are completed and submitted.
RIBA Stage: 4
The eye is in the detail!
Stage 4 is about developing the information required to manufacture and construct the building. This requires coordinated information from the design team to produce high-quality packages of technical drawings, specification, and schedules to meet building regulations, develop detail tender returns and accurately detail how the building is constructed. We offer different level of detail for these packages to suit every budget. But the more information we add to this pack, the greater the clarity on the tender and on the build from the contractor.
RIBA Stage: 5
From the drawing board to a spade in the ground.
If instructed, we will be on hand as the project continues coming to life. From providing extra information required to enable the contractor to begin on site, to offering design solutions for unexpecting problems. Managing the relationship between you and the builder via contract administration, helping you through the murky world of construction, striving for best practice solutions and helping clients avoid the common pitfalls of projects.
RIBA Stage: 6
You move in!
By Stage 6 the building will be in use and the emphasis of the project team will have switched to closing out any defects and completing the tasks required to conclude the Building Contract.
The only thing you need do, is enjoy your new home!