Our joy at GBS is using residential architectural design to turn your dreams into reality.
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Our joy at GBS is using residential architectural design to turn your dreams into reality.
We understand that for most people starting out on a project can feel like a daunting prospect. We simplify this by splitting our work process into individual stages and commit to providing you with detailed advice every step of the way. Our strategy is based on the RIBA Plan of Work which we find is a clear and concise way of defining the processes involved during any construction project.
We adore commencing new projects he is our opportunity to sit down with you and discuss your project over a coffee. We will offer you our advice and agree on the aims of the design. We will also visit your property and undertake a full measured building survey to make sure we have got all the dimensions, services and photos we need to get started, this information is then transformed into a set of existing floor plans, elevations, and sections of the current building ready to design on.
This is where we let our creative juices flow. We will be busy developing concept design ideas based on the agreed brief. Once these are ready, we send them to you for discussion. We can even provide you with a 3D model that can help bring the concept to life. We want to make sure you are happy with the conceptual design before going into further detail and ensure the space is right for all your needs.
It is our duty to you to make sure all of the right permissions for the proposed works are in place. We will advise on the most effective strategy for this and put together all the drawings and forms needed. At this stage the design will be more detailed and will show the key materials and dimensions for approval. We will submit the application to the Council and monitor it until the decision is in, once the decision is received, we will advise on any conditions or items that need attending to prior to commencement of work on site.
At this stage the design really comes together. Our drawings will be produced with much more detail and show the construction elements of the building. We can also suggest a Structural Engineer and will apply for Building Regulation approval on your behalf. It’s not all technical though and we like to involve you through the choices of materials and finishes you desire. Once this is all agreed we will write a detailed specification for the whole project.
A good contractor is key to the successful outcome of the project. We will run the tender process so you get fair and accurate quotations and then review them to ensure they cover all aspects of the project and leave no stone unturned when it comes to the contract amount. We will put the contract in place and carry out regular site inspections to monitor the quality of work and safe operations on site. We make sure that the work is carried out properly, deal with any queries the contractor may have and issue all certificates. After completion we’ll still be involved to deal with anything that comes up.
The most defining and satisfying part of any project we are involved in is the day our Clients move in to their new space. It’s a joy to our team to see the smile on your face. GBS Architectural fully strive and commit to ensure you get there smoothly and successfully.
DEVELOPMENTS
Small scale developments can be the perfect way to extract every bit of potential out of a site, with an ever-present demand for housing within and around the city this is becoming a key fundamental consideration in any new development project. Having experience in these matters is absolutely key to ensure that the determination and approvals stage is as smoothly run as possible.
MEASURED BUILDING SURVEYS
A complete and thorough measured building survey will be required before a project can really get started. The existing drawings will provide us with a base from which we can start to flesh out the design to suit your bespoke project brief. For larger more complex projects we have professionals that we can recommend in assisting us with this stage.
CONSERVATION AREAS & LISTED BUILDINGS
A listed building or one within a conservation area will undergo an additional level of scrutiny during the determination period and rightly so. These properties or areas will have an architectural character or features that is encouraged to be preserved, having an in depth understanding of these guidelines and appraisals is key to a successful project, our experience lends us perfectly to guiding you through the process.
BASEMENTS
A basement project is by default no small undertaking, the very nature of these projects means we have numerous factors to consider, especially those pertaining to construction and structural design, we have contacts to ensure these issues are dealt with pro-actively.. A basement can offer all the advantages that a loft conversion can but usually without the reduced head height playing a restricting factor.
OUTBUILDINGS
Outbuildings have gone from strength to strength in terms of their feasibility and popularity. The ever-shifting priorities of homeowners has meant that we are seeing more and more outbuildings than before. The potential for a high level of design flexibility means that an outbuilding is an investment that will continue to give back now and in the future.
LOFT CONVERSIONS
One of the most common project types that we are involved with is also one of the most beneficial for your clients. Lofts are usually used for overflow storage of stuff you know you should throw out; they are also almost the same size of the floor below showing potential that is there to be used. With the option to use formal planning permission or permitted development rights there is plenty of scope to use the space exactly how you wish.
INTERNAL ALTERATIONS
Internal alterations can offer you the perfect balance in updating your home without the need for costly larger scale building works. A simple yet effective re-model of your internal layout can create the feeling of a whole new home with the added benefit of making more efficient use of the space, re-purposing defunct spaces and updating it to be fit for more modern-day use.
DOMESTIC EXTENSIONS
An extension is the perfect way to both re-fresh and add value to your home without the potential stress of demolishing large parts of your home, there is also the added potential benefit of utilising permitted development rights making the process much simpler. A single or double-storey extension could be the perfect way to add the space your home craves; we have handled countless projects of this type and would be delighted to assist you.
NEW BUILDS
A new build home is the perfect way to guarantee that you are maximising the potential of your site. Whether you have a large plot of land that you want to split up and build upon, an empty site begging to be developed or a property you’d like to demolish and re-build, our experience ensures we are able to guide you through to a successful and satisfying project end.
NEW BUILDS
A new build home is the perfect way to guarantee that you are maximising the potential of your site. Whether you have a large plot of land that you want to split up and build upon, an empty site begging to be developed or a property you’d like to demolish and re-build, our experience ensures we are able to guide you through to a successful and satisfying project end.