THE PROCESS
Managing a construction project involves numerous tasks and processes, making it essential to stay organised and efficient. At our firm, we follow the RIBA Plan of Work, a well-established framework that provides a structured approach to project management. This industry-recognised plan ensures that every stage of a project is clearly defined, resourced correctly, and executed to the highest standard.
We offer a full architectural design service that covers all key stages of a project’s life cycle. From the initial design and town planning stages through to the detailed design package, works on-site, and final completion, we work collaboratively with clients, consultants, and contractors to deliver high-quality solutions.
The RIBA Plan of Work consists of eight distinct stages, each addressing a specific phase of a project’s progression from start to finish. Each stage has its own tasks, processes, and outputs, making it a valuable management tool and a clear road map for all members of the project team. By following this structured process, we ensure that project goals are clearly understood and achieved.
The Plan of Work is highly adaptable and can be tailored to suit projects of any scale and complexity, whether it’s a small residential build or a large-scale development. This flexibility allows us to apply the framework in a way that meets the unique requirements of each project while maintaining consistency and quality.
We adhere to the latest RIBA guidelines to ensure that our processes align with industry standards and best practices. Whether you are embarking on a new build, renovation, or expansion, our approach guarantees a seamless journey from inception to completion and handover.

RIBA STAGE 0 – STRATEGIC DEFINITION +
The first stage of the RIBA Plan of Work loosely outlines a project brief and identifies the defining criteria of your project, your personal priorities and your design ambition. This stage is often pre-appointment, so it provides an opportunity for you to get a sense of how we can assist you our experience and portfolio. Stage 0 is particularly important for you to set the tone of the project and for us to define the project scope, design issues, and desired project outcome together.
RIBA STAGE 1 – PREPARATION & BRIEF +
Preparation and Brief, as the name suggests, uses the information gathered at the previous stage to formulate the project brief. We will review the options and feasibility of the project and discuss with you the best way forward. We will outline the steps required which might include a sketch proposals, cost appraisal, what statutory approvals are required and what other consultants would need to be appointed to form the project team.
RIBA STAGE 2 – CONCEPT DESIGN +
The design process begins here! Using the information we can gathered so far, we start to develop architectural concepts in line with the project brief and budget. We conduct design reviews with clients and stakeholders and develop architectural drawings and concept designs.
RIBA STAGE 3 – DEVELOPED DESIGN +
Continuing on from a signed-off concept design, the project drawings are developed with consideration to structural design, building services and with the budget in mind. The Developed Design stage is where a coordinated design really starts to firm up. Planning submission usually occurs during or at the end of stage 3. Depending if your project is listed or in a conservation area, further information such as a Design & Access Statement may have to accompany the planning submission. In this Stage we can advise and assist what additional information is required to complete a planning application.
RIBA STAGE 4 – TECHNICAL DESIGN +
Technical Design is a refinement of the existing design, and injection of detailed design essentially preparing the necessary drawings and documentation for tendering. It often involves approaching relevant specialist subcontractors, such as a glazing manufacturer, or joinery firm. The level of detail required may vary according to the type of procurement and the nature of the project. Traditionally, tendering is done at the end of stage 4 with the aim that a contractor is selected and employed by you the client. Going forward we could assist with administering the contract on your behalf.
RIBA STAGE 5 – CONSTRUCTION +
With the design principally complete, RIBA stage 5 is the point when construction work starts on site. Our role at this stage will vary and we can tailor our service to suit your requirement. Ideally we would administer the contract and oversee the building works through to completion. It is this stage that needs careful monitoring and regular site visits to keep the project on programme and always referring back to the cost plan.
RIBA STAGE 6 – HANDOVER & CLOSE OUT +
Stage 6 of the RIBA Plan of Works is the Handover phase. This stage concludes all aspects of the Building Contract, including rectifying any defects (snagging) on the Contractor’s part and producing the final certificate on the Contract Administrator’s part.
RIBA STAGE 7 – IN USE +
The in-use stage of the RIBA Plan of Work exists as a form of aftercare service. This may include any requests for as-built drawings, any discussions regarding future alterations or additional work.