Architectural Design Services

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN SERVICES

At Harrow we provide a full architectural design service tailored to meet the client’s requirements, on any type of new-build or refurbishment scheme. We provide an innovative approach to providing the optimum architectural design, within financial and programme constraints.

We work with the client at every stage of the architectural design process in order to ensure that their specific requirements are met.

Harrow operates a 5-stage architectural design process aligned to the RIBA Plan of Work, which is shown below. It is important to stress that the processes are not carried out individually in a linear process, and a successful design may move back and forth between phases in order to arrive at the optimum solution:

Client Brief

We believe that the key to any successful new build or refurbishment project is in establishing a robust, and appropriate, client brief. This provides a solid foundation from which both parties can feel confidence in moving forward with a common set of shared goals and objectives.

Programming Phase

Within this phase we identify the key needs of the client and an indicative programme, aligned to their current or future business strategy. This allows the client to manage their property and plan for future occupation. This particular phase is extremely important if clients are required to serve notice to vacate existing properties, or to prepare for staff transfer to the new property etc.

Schematic Design Phase

During schematic design, we provide high-level design. Here, minor details should be ignored in order to focus on creating a coherent solution that fully meets the client needs.

Design Development Phase

During the development phase of the architectural design process, the scheme is refined into the final architectural design. In previous phases, the focus has been on the project as a whole. During Design Development, in becomes important to give individual attention to each aspect, each space and each detail of the project.

Construction Document Phase

At this stage of the architectural design process, the focus shifts from design to communicating the design and providing all information necessary for construction. This includes production of specifications, construction details and information required to provide a full tender pack to main contractors.

Beyond the architectural design process we are able to offer full Contract Administration or Project Management duties, to ensure successful project delivery. This overarching service allows us to provide schemes from inception to completion.

Our Project Management and Contract Administration duties are discussed under a separate tab.

At all stages we ensure that Statutory Obligations are considered and achieved, including the following:

  • Planning Approval
  • Building Regulations Approval
  • Disability Discrimination Act 1995
  • Listed Building/English Heritage/Conservation requirements
  • Rights to Light