What We Do

Our Process

Why Complicate a Simple Process?
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You have a vision.
We listen, we understand, we create, and we deliver—exactly as agreed.

We work with a diverse range of clients, helping them bring their ideas to life.

Often, it all starts with something simple—a sketch, a conversation, an email, or just a few words.
We believe in straightforward, no-pressure collaboration. That’s why we invite potential clients to drop by our office for a coffee and a chat. We’ll walk you through our work and processes, and together, we’ll quickly determine if we’re the right fit. If the connection is there, we outline the representation required and get straight to work—no delays, no complications, just progress.

Below, you’ll find a typical project timeline, giving an insight into how we structure our approach from concept to completion.

Step 1

Initial Consultation & Brief Development

The foundation of every successful project starts with a clear vision and a well-defined plan.

Our process begins with an on-site meeting where we discuss your aspirations, goals, and expectations. Following this, we provide a comprehensive action plan, outlining:
- Key deliverables.
- Required project stakeholders.
- Associated fees for consideration.

No Rush, No Pressure _
We understand that making decisions takes time.
That’s why we encourage a no-rush policy, giving you the space to review, reflect, and ask questions.

Collaborative Vision Building _
During our consultation, we take the time to truly understand your ideas, preferences, and budget considerations.
Through in-depth discussions and brainstorming sessions, we translate your vision into a structured project brief.

Our experienced architects and designers also consider:
- Site conditions & constraints.
- Local planning regulations.
- Sustainability & environmental goals.

Finalizing the Framework _
By the end of this phase, you’ll have a detailed action plan that aligns with your objectives, ensuring a strong foundation for the next steps.

Parallel, we finalize the full appointment particulars, setting the stage for a smooth and well-organized project journey.

Step 2

Appointments & Concept Development

Once the appointment particulars are agreed and confirmed, we immediately begin preliminary feasibility studies—laying the groundwork for a well-informed and structured design process.

A Multi-Tiered Approach [Bronze, Silver & Gold]:
We present a range of intervention options, each offering varying levels of complexity, cost, and design ambition:
- Bronze – Minor intervention (cost-efficient, minimal changes)
- Silver – Medium intervention (balanced investment & transformation)
- Gold – Major intervention (high-impact design with greater complexity)

Each option is accompanied by clear commentary, outlining:
- Design opportunities and constraints
- Comparative benefits of each approach
- Differentiation in scale, cost, and project ambition

This tiered approach not only provides our clients with tangible choices but also sparks debate and encourages creative input. Many clients select a primary direction while blending elements from different tiers—for example:
"We love the Silver option but prefer the Gold kitchen layout."

Clarity Through BIM & 3D Visualization _
Every design iteration is developed using BIM technologies,allowing for:
- Enhanced stakeholder engagement (planners, neighbours, local groups, etc.)
- Clear visual representation of massing, form, lighting, and materials
- Early-stage cost appraisals and design team coordination

Efficiency in Workflow = Time & Cost Savings _
By integrating detailed 3D modelling from the outset, we ensure that project elements are thoroughly tested and refined early, leading to smoother workflows, fewer revisions, and faster return times—directly translating into cost savings for our clients.

Step 3

Favoured Scheme Development & Design Freeze

Once the feasibility phase is complete, we transition into the design development stage, refining the selected scheme for formal client approval and progressing required applications.

Refining the Vision _
At this stage, we fine-tune key project elements, ensuring alignment with the client’s aspirations. This includes:
- Materiality – defining preferred finishes and textures.
- Light Quality – optimizing natural and artificial lighting.
- Aesthetic & Spatial Qualities – refining the design for functionality and visual impact.

To encourage collaborative design input, we set up a Pinterest board for each project, allowing both client and design team to share inspiration, refine preferences, and curate the project’s visual language—a true ideas factory in action.

Leveraging BIM for Precision & Stakeholder Engagement _
Our commitment to BIM technologies ensures:
- Accurate 3D visualization for clearer project understanding
- Early-stage cost analysis for financial clarity
- Seamless integration with consultants (Structural Engineers, MEP specialists, Approved Inspectors, etc.)

This detailed, data-driven approach enhances communication with all project stakeholders—including clients, planning officers, contractors, and consultants -resulting in an impressive approval rate for our projects.

Next Steps: Beyond Approval _
Once required planning and regulatory applications are submitted, we shift focus toward finer project details, including:
- Interior design elements.
- Sustainability strategies & bespoke features.
- Technical specifications & construction planning.

This structured approach ensures a smooth transition from concept refinement to real-world execution - laying the groundwork for the next phase of delivery.

Step 4

Applications & Consents

At Brass Architecture, we take a meticulous and strategic approach to planning applications, ensuring each submission is thorough, visually clear, and technically robust.

Quality Over Quantity _
We have strong working relationships with many Local Planning Authorities (LPA's) and understand the importance of clarity and detail in planning submissions. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive 3D visualizations – aiding all stakeholders in understanding the scheme.
- Detailed and precise documentation – eliminating ambiguity and unnecessary back-and-forth queries.
- Proactive case officer engagement – ensuring smoother application processing.

We reject the practice of minimal, low-effort submissions that lead to delays, confusion, and rejections. Instead, we front-load the process, ensuring all necessary information is provided upfront, reducing the risk of costly setbacks.

"I would also like to commend the quality of your drawings. I have to admit that the visuals are some of the best I have seen and will certainly make my assessment a lot easier and quicker."
— Case Officer, Haringey LPA Active Application

Monitoring _
Once an application is submitted, we remain fully engaged in the process, ensuring a seamless journey from submission to determination. Our process includes:
- Tracking application progress and addressing queries in real time.
- Maintaining open dialogue with case officers to facilitate understanding.
- Strategically handling amendment requests—evaluating whether to concede or challenge proposed changes in consultation with the client.

Beyond Submission _
Many firms treat the planning phase as a passive step, simply submitting paperwork and awaiting approval. We take an active role, ensuring the design is rigorously tested and optimized before submission.

Our submissions are backed by analytical justifications, ensuring officers grasp the rationale behind every design decision—ultimately securing the best possible outcome.

Step 5

Technical Design Phase

With planning approvals secured, Brass Architecture shifts focus to the Technical Design Phase, ensuring the project is ready for seamless on-site construction.

Precision-Driven Technical Detailing _
This stage is crucial in translating the approved design into a buildable reality. Our process includes:
- Detailed technical literature—comprehensive drawings, specifications, and material detailing.
- Integration of specialist reports—coordinating with Structural Engineers, MEP consultants, and other specialists.
- Compliance assurance—Building Regulations, Party Wall matters, and Planning Condition discharge.

Bridging Design & Construction _
At this phase, we prepare contractor-ready documentation that allows:
- Contractors to assess project scope—ensuring accurate cost estimates and timeline projections.
- Seamless communication of intent—minimizing discrepancies between design and execution.
- Refinement of build strategy—marrying technical precision with aesthetic vision.

Our experienced technicians are adept at merging structural logic with design intent, ensuring that every detail—from finishes to functional specifications - aligns with the project’s original vision and aspirations.

Guidance on Contracts & Delivery Models _
Every project has unique needs, and there are multiple contract structures and delivery models available. Our team provides expert advice on:
- Traditional vs. design-and-build contracts.
- Procurement strategies to optimize cost, time, and quality.
- Selecting the right contractor based on project complexity.

With a meticulous approach to technical design, Brass Architecture ensures smooth progression from the drawing board to the construction site - eliminating risks, refining details, and enhancing efficiency.

Step 6

'Tendering' the Project

With the technical design phase complete, Brass Architecture initiates the tendering process, ensuring a smooth transition from design to construction.

Issuing a Detailed Tender Pack _
We prepare and circulate a comprehensive project tender pack to vetted contractors, allowing them to:
- Review the design, technical specifications, and project scope.
- Declare their interest and submit a detailed proposal.
- Provide a cost breakdown, methodology, and proposed team.

Navigating the Tendering Process _
We closely assist our clients in evaluating contractor submissions, balancing:
- Cost appraisals—ensuring competitive yet realistic pricing.
- Programme considerations—aligning construction timelines with project goals.
- Quality assurance—ensuring proposed methodologies maintain design integrity.

Managing Contractor Proposals & Variations _
Many contractors propose alternative specifications or delivery methods based on their supply chain, expertise, or cost efficiencies. We guide our clients through this process, ensuring:
- Informed decision-making - helping clients distinguish between beneficial refinements and undesirable changes.
- Preservation of design intent - balancing commercial practicality with aesthetic aspirations.
- Alignment with budget & timelines - ensuring smooth project execution without unnecessary compromise.

Final Contractor Selection _
Once tenders are evaluated, refined, and negotiated, we help our clients select the best-suited contractor to deliver the project. Our BIM driven approach enhances accuracy, reducing inefficiencies and streamlining project delivery.

With Brass Architecture, clients gain clarity, control, and confidence - ensuring the right contractor is in place for a successful build phase.

Step 7

Site Construction Works

At Brass Architecture, we are passionate about seeing our designs come to life.

We offer flexible site representation services, tailored to suit each client’s level of involvement.

Tailored Site Representation Options _
Clients can choose from three levels of engagement during the construction phase:
- Watching Brief – Remote oversight with periodic updates.
- Intermediate Representation – Fortnightly site visits & appraisals.
- Full Instruction – Weekly site presence & project management.

Each option is customized to fit the needs of the project and the client's preferences.

Our Role During Construction _
We provide structured site monitoring, including:
- Progress tracking & reporting - Regular site visits, status updates & issue resolution.
- Contractor & subcontractor coordination - Design clarifications & problem-solving.
- Bespoke package development - Supporting custom elements & specialist trades.

Client Involvement & Communication _
Some clients prefer us to act as their main point of contact, handling contractor interactions and resolving on-site challenges. Others choose to be actively involved in construction decisions. We adapt to each client’s preference, ensuring:
- Clear deliverables - Defined roles for the client, contractor & design team.
- Cost & timeline oversight - Monthly budget & resource reviews.
- Minimized disruptions - Smoother project delivery with proactive issue management.

Ensuring a Smooth Build Process _
Every construction phase is unique, and Brass Architecture remains on hand to guide, support, and streamline the journey - ensuring a stress-free,high-quality build that stays on track.

Step 8

Project Completion

The final stage of a project—Practical Completion—marks the transition from construction to occupation.

At this critical phase, Brass Architecture ensures a seamless handover between the contractor and the client.

Final Inspections & Sign-Off _
- Quality Assurance – Evaluating the final install works against contract specifications.
- Interior Finishing – Addressing final interior design elements &last-minute adjustments.
- Snagging & Testing – Identifying & resolving minor defects before full handover.

Defects Period & Ongoing Support _
Following completion, we assist in managing the Defects Period, during which:
- All installed systems & infrastructure are tested.
- The contractor remains available for any necessary corrections.
- Cost plans & deliverables are reviewed for final approval.

Client Experience & Post-Completion Review _
Our role doesn't just end at handover. We follow up with our clients to:
- Gather feedback on the project journey.
- Identify learning outcomes for future developments.
- Celebrate the successful delivery—sometimes with a well-earned toast!

At Brass Architecture, we take pride in not just completing projects but building lasting relationships.
Many of our clients return for future collaborations, a testament to the success of our process and the trust we build.

Step 9

In Use

Even after the project is completed and handed over, Brass Architecture remains actively involved to ensure a smooth transition into daily use.

Ongoing Support & Follow-Ups _
- Defects Period Management - Ensuring the contractor addresses any post-completion issues.
- Post-Occupancy Review - Checking that the design functions as planned in real-world conditions.
- Client Queries & Adjustments - Providing guidance on any teething issues (e.g., residual movement).

Long-Term Engagement _
- Scheduled Follow-Ups - Meeting clients to discuss any recourse matters.
- Project Impact Assessment - Understanding how the design enhances daily life.
- Client Testimonials & PR - Many clients kindly provide references & allow future clients to visit completed projects.

At Brass Architecture, our work doesn’t just stop at completion—it extends into building relationships, refining our approach, and ensuring long-term client satisfaction.

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Conclusion _ Homeowner Clients

Each project is unique and is not stringently wedded to the above outlined deliverables/ work stages.
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It does however, provide an understanding of the general workflows from inception to handover.

Most homeowner residential projects however, does follow the above timelines; with each project milestone aligned with the RIBA Royal Institute of British Architects' Plan of Work Stages (2013).

We include the above timeline - to allow any new potential client(s) to understand the broad stages of a given project.

Any queries, relating to employing the services of an architect and project work flows - we are more than happy to assist.

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Conclusion _ Non Homeowner Clients

For commercial sector projects, developer-led schemes, master planning designs, and beyond, we offer tailored (bespoke) delivery channels to meet the unique demands of each project.

We encourage developer-led clients to reach out and learn about our alternative representation model, designed to be:
- Faster.
- More cost-effective.
- Higher yielding.

How? _
A redefined core design team x trusted partners x technological advancements (BIM+) = A smarter and more efficient project execution model.

We work with leading developers nationwide (and internationally), ensuring each project is unique, with the desired exit strategy integrated from conception to completion.

Our promise: Speed, efficiency, and cost savings - without compromising on accuracy, quality, or design excellence.

Have questions? Let’s talk!
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Reach out to discuss how we can add value to your project.

Our Friends

We work with a wide range of clients across all industry sectors, trusted to deliver any project type—no matter how complex or challenging the brief.

Our collaborative approach brings together master craftsmen,artists, academics, and industry leaders, ensuring innovation, quality, and precision for every project.

With diverse expertise and strong partnerships, we provide a unique, tailored service—delivering projects on time, on budget, and beyond expectations.