Architects Harpenden

Creating stunning homes and for private owners and investor developers, individually designed and managed to the highest standard by our highly experienced architects in Harpenden

RIBA Chartered Architects in Harpenden

RBD Architecture & Interiors has over 20 years of experience working in the high specification residential sector. We’ve worked on a range of residential architecture projects in Knightsbridge, as well as single residences and multiple occupancy projects in Central London, across the UK, and abroad. We have experience working in a range of project types, including new builds, extensions and alterations to existing properties, and sympathetic conservation and restoration.

We offer our clients a wide range of residential architectural and interior design services depending on their requirements. In all cases, we seek to develop a clear understanding of their objectives and aspirations before preparing a project brief. Our team will help you through each stage of your project from concept through to completion and can even help dress and furnish your home.

Most building works require permissions from various authorities to be granted before they can go ahead. Depending on the extent of the work, the location and type of the property, it may be one or more of the following: Permitted Development, Planning permission, Freeholder’s consent, Conservation Area consent, Listed Building consent, Party Wall awards, Building Regulations approval etc.

At the beginning of the project, we always advise our clients what consents and approvals may be required. In complex cases, we recommend applying for pre-planning advice before submitting a full planning application.

If you’re interested in learning more about our Planning Permission Applications & Listed Building Consents services, please visit this link Planning Permission Applications & Listed Building Consents | RBD Architecture & Interiors (rbddesign.com)

Expertise from our Harpenden Architects

Residential Architecture

Creating stunning homes and properties for private owners and investor developers looking to achieve the highest standards in residential design, on time and to budget.

Commercial Architecture

The design of creative, sustainable and productive buildings and spaces helping businesses to perform at their best.

Apartment Renovation Services

If you are thinking of buying an apartment or are considering renovating or remodelling an existing apartment, we can help you realise its full potential.

Mews House Architects

RBD Architecture & Interiors are leaders in the field of residential Mews House renovations, refurbishments and extensions.

New Build

Building a new home can be an exciting yet daunting journey. We will help you through each step of the process from initial concept through to completion.

Conservation & Restoration

Conserving, restoring and preserving buildings of architectural merit is highly skilled, requiring an intimate knowledge of traditional construction, planning constraints and the client’s brief whilst respectfully ensuring a building’s long-term and sustainable future.

The Design Process

Architectural Services Design Stage One

Design Stage One

Project Strategy, Brief, Concept Design

Following initial discussions with the client, we will prepare a project strategy and a brief. This will consider the client’s requirements, key objectives, the project budget, programme and design aspirations.

Next, we will arrange a measured survey and gather site information before preparing a feasibility study based on the brief. During this stage we will outline all project constraints and opportunities, applicable statutory requirements and likely input required from other consultants. Depending on the scale and complexity of the project, it may be necessary to appoint a Quantity Surveyor from this point forward to advise on project cost.

After discussing the results of the feasibility study with the client, we will prepare a concept design focusing not only on form, function and aesthetic, but early consideration of structure and building services. We will also consider materials, method of construction, site logistics and the project budget. The concept design often comprises of multiple options to be discussed and reviewed with the client. We typically use CAD drawings and 3D visuals at this stage to present our work.

Architectural Services Design Stage Two

Design Stage Two

Developed Design & Planning

Once the concept design has been agreed, our architects will liaise with the local planning authority and any other statutory consultees. We will then prepare and submit the relevant planning applications, supporting drawings, assessments and statements, and manage each application through to determination. RBD Architecture & Interiors have extensive knowledge of local authority planning policy and the planning process and have considerable experience working with listed buildings, conservation areas and greenbelt development. We pride ourselves on maintaining an approval success rate of over 95% including applications of various degrees of scale and complexity.

Architectural Services Design Stage Three

Design Stage Three

Technical Design & Tender

Once planning consent has been granted, we will prepare the technical design – a construction package of detailed drawings, schedules, product information and health & safety information for pricing. We usually recommend seeking tenders from a minimum of three principal contractors.

The development of the technical design is a continuation of the design process requiring careful coordination of our design with information provided by the other appointed consultants. Our preferred approach is to work closely with our clients during the preparation of this information to make all key design decisions before work commences on site. This will help ensure that the construction cost and programme is kept to a minimum.

The technical design will include important information such as setting out, construction details, mechanical and electrical specifications and Building Regulations notes. All tendering contractors will also be provided with a summary of the proposed Building Contract particulars.

Architectural Services Design Stage Four

Design Stage Four

Contract Administration, Construction, Handover

Once a principal contractor has been chosen, we will act as Contract Administrator, assisting with the preparation of an appropriate Building Contract. The client and the principal contractor will formally agree terms relating to the proposed works, the construction programme and the contract value.

During construction, RBD will administer the terms of the building contract, carry out regular site inspections, respond to any contractor queries, monitor progress, and continue to manage and coordinate the design.

On completion of the works, we will prepare all relevant documentation for handover and review the final account.

Start Your Harpenden Architecture Project

Please contact us with questions regarding our architecture & interior design services.

Our Harpenden architects will be happy to discuss your project and ways our team can assist you with the design and construction of your home.

Client Testimonials

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