AN ARCHITECT'S GUIDE TO THE PROJECT PROCESS

At Richard Ruddick Architects, we guide our clients through every stage of the architectural process, using the RIBA Plan of Work as a clear and trusted roadmap. This is an Architect's guide to the project process.

The journey begins with defining your needs and aspirations. We review your options and prepare a strategic brief that sets clear objectives and sustainability outcomes. From here, concept designs take shape and are developed into detailed proposals ready for planning applications and building regulations approval.

Once approvals are in place, our technical design provides accuracy and clarity for tendering and contractor selection. During construction we act as contract administrators, carrying out site inspections, resolving queries and monitoring progress to protect quality and budget. Finally, we oversee the handover process and support you with aftercare to check your new building performs as expected.

Working with a chartered architect means more than just creating beautiful designs. It ensures you have a professional partner managing risks, coordinating consultants and safeguarding your investment at every stage. With us, you can be confident that your project is in expert hands from the first idea to life in your finished building.

Once you have had the chance to read through this helpful guide, feel free to download our free guides, then book a call with us where we can arrange our needs and options review, or dive straight into the design process!

The Architectural Project Process

RIBA Stage 0 - Strategic Definition: Setting the Foundations for Success

Every successful building project begins with clarity. We start by identifying your requirements, reviewing your needs and options, and preparing a strategic brief. This stage defines the objectives, outcomes, and sustainability goals of your project. By involving a chartered architect at the outset, you gain a clear roadmap and a trusted professional who can align design ambitions with realistic budgets and timescales.

RIBA Stage 1 - Preparation and Brief: Turning Ideas into a Clear Vision

The preparation and brief stage is where we translate your aspirations into a practical framework. As residential and commercial architects, we help you set project outcomes, sustainability targets, and spatial requirements. This step is essential in shaping a project that not only looks beautiful but also functions seamlessly. By managing consultants and providing early planning advice, we ensure your vision has the best possible start.

RIBA Stage 2 - Concept Design: Bringing Your Vision to Life

This is where creativity takes centre stage. We develop initial architectural concepts, prepare outline structural designs, and present the first drawings that bring your ideas to life. For homeowners and developers alike, this is one of the most exciting stages,  it is where dreams begin to take shape. With us as your design partner, every concept is grounded in feasibility, planning requirements, and long-term value.

We can approach the local authority for pre-application advice at this stage.

RIBA Stage 3 - Developed Design: Preparing for Planning Applications

At this stage, your design evolves into a detailed proposal. We refine layouts, coordinate structural and engineering input, and prepare planning applications. With our experience as RIBA chartered architects, we navigate the planning process and liaise with local authorities, giving your project the best chance of approval. Our proactive management reduces delays and ensures compliance with all statutory requirements.

RIBA Stage 4 - Technical Design: Detail and Precision

Technical design is about turning vision into buildable reality. We produce detailed drawings, specifications, and tender information so contractors can price and deliver the project accurately. This stage protects you from unexpected costs and ensures that every aspect of your building meets building regulations. As project managers, we coordinate consultants and oversee the technical process to keep everything aligned.

RIBA Stage 5 - Construction: Managing the Build

During construction we act as contract administrators, managing communication between you and your builder, resolving queries, and carrying out site inspections. Our role is to safeguard quality, monitor progress, and ensure the build follows agreed designs and budgets. Having an architect lead this stage provides peace of mind that your project is being built to the highest professional standards.

RIBA Stage 6 - Handover and Closeout: Delivering Your Building

When construction is complete, we oversee handover to make sure everything is finished correctly and building contracts are concluded. We initiate aftercare, carry out inspections, and ensure you are supported as you begin using your new space. This stage is where your vision is fully realised, and we remain on hand to provide advice as you settle in.

RIBA Stage 7 - In Use: Long-Term Value and Sustainability

Even after completion, our role as architects can continue. We monitor building performance, advise on maintenance, and ensure your investment provides long-term value. Whether it is a residential home or a commercial development, we focus on sustainability, functionality, and client satisfaction well beyond the final handover.

Download our simple roadmap here

Download our Project Planning Pack here

We hope that you choose to work with us, but always check any other architect is properly qualified. The ARB Register provides a list of all fully qualified architects – if they aren’t on this list, they are not an architect.

architects-register.org.uk

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