Project Guidance
Information & Guides
Muir Walker Pride offer a full range of Architectural and Interior Design services across the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) work stages, from concept design and design development, to obtaining necessary planning, listed building, building warrant and other statutory consents, construction documentation, tender administration and administering the building contract on site to completion of the project.
MWP talented team enjoy working closely with the clients, wider community and professional consultants to deliver design and technical solutions appropriate to each project.
MWP apply particular care to ensure that the clients’ aims and aspirations for each project are central to their service and that all stakeholders’ interests are fully considered.
MWP’s guidance, imagination, experience and expert application of construction technology help clients realise their building ambitions.
Preparation of the Brief
Often a Feasibility study is appropriate at this stage to determine which potential site or building purchase option that best suits the Clients requirements.
Initial Design
Once the project brief has been established, initial design proposals are prepared for discussion & agreement. It may be that a number of design options are prepared that explore alternative solutions and these will be presented to the Client for their consideration. This is a very important stage as it establishes the design principles of the project including indicative guidance on construction cost and build programme.
Planning Consent Application
Once the initial design has been completed and where appropriate, local authorities and utility services are consulted. The design is progressed in consultation with the Client and usually a planning application is prepared for submission. Often a project requires several types of consents including Planning Permission in Principle, Planning Permission, Roads Construction Consent, Listed Building and Conservation Area Consent. It may be that demolition of an existing building is required. If so this should also be applied for. There are also certain projects that fall within the definition of Permitted Development that do not require a planning application.
Advice is given on procurement methods and any revisions to the programme agreed.
Building Warrant Application
This stage progresses the design into detailed technical drawings and specifications suitable to show how the project complies with the building standards. It is possible that other consultants are required, typically a Structural Engineer and Services Consultant. These Consultants are briefed on project requirements and their work co-ordinated into the building warrant package.
Consultants
Other consultants may be required to help deliver your project. Depending on how complex the project is, this may include a Topographical Surveyor, Drainage Specialist, Structural Engineer, Mechanical and Electrical Engineer, Quantity Surveyor and a Planning Consultant. The Architect is usually responsible for collating & co-ordinating consultant information. We will advise if consultants are required for your project and will help arrange their appointment on your behalf.
Your Aspirations
Whether it is space planning an office or specifying an interior for a restaurant or food court, we can provide creative & inspiring concepts compatible with brand image and Client aspirations. We can prepare details, help select product suppliers and manufacturers, specify and supply appropriate materials and fittings for projects. On residential developments we specify interior elements; bathrooms, kitchen, furniture, soft furnishings, floor and wall finish, ironmongery, window dressing, lighting etc. to complement the architectural design in an integrated, harmonious and rational way.
Tender and Site Works
CDM Regulations 2015
The changes to the Construction Design Management (CDM) Regulations in 2015 removed domestic Client exemption and did away with the CDM Co-ordinator role. Clients are now more accountable for the impact of their decisions, their approach to project health and safety management and the way in which they ensure that the Principal Designer and Principal Contractor comply with their own duties. The HSE recognise that the Domestic Client is unlikely to be able to competently carry out their duties. Read the rest of this article on our blog >>
Overseas Clients
For overseas resident Clients requiring a turnkey service, we offer a special management service which takes the inconvenience and worry out of their building project. After establishing key Client parameters, we can manage the pre-construction, construction and post construction process on their behalf, providing Client feedback through regular updates on progress and financial status.
