Approach
Our approach to design is one of discovery and storytelling.
A SINGLE FIRM PHILOSOPHY DRIVES DESIGN
We function together as a coherent group with a large amount of inter-office information exchange. This offers us a distinct edge because our experience reaches well beyond our respective local markets.
As successful designers, we understand that each project will have its own specific criteria and that we are agile in adapting our service to suit
the client’s needs.
This helps us collaborate closely with you to explore your project’s full value, whether it is to produce the space of your aspirations or to increase the return on your investment.
As a guideline, our estimated cost of constructing a project currently is £150k-£2.5 million.
We do not believe only in the supply of drawings; rather, we will offer guidance and advise across the whole process while designing and
building your project.
METHODOLOGY
PASSION
At DiA, we are known for our passion. Passion for aesthetics and creativity, and passion for forging strong relationships with partners and clients. Good design is fundamental to the role of the architect. Architecture is influenced by political, economic, cultural and architectural influences, and it should be empowering the public. It’s not only knowing what to do but knowing how to do it well. We understand the importance of paying attention to details as they influence the uniqueness of our designs. Suppose we have commissioned a professional artist to manufacture a cabinet for a playroom for a child or to decorate a bathroom with a marble skirt to achieve a flawless finish. We pledge to have an outstanding design tailor-made for each of our customers’ needs and accounts for their own personalised taste.
COLLABORATION
The success of a project illustrates the team’s efficiency and collaborative approach; from beginning to end, we can guide, inspire, and control this collective team to ensure the project meets the client’s aspirations. We acknowledge the importance of getting people together to develop something fresh and innovative. We understand that we should build projects through teamwork and communication. We have several diverse skills and technical strengths at our service both within and outside of our studio. This guarantees that we have an eye to everything, and we also look to the cultures in which our work is motivated and enriched. At Design-itude Associates, everyone involved in a project has an equally important role to play – from architects to engineers, planners to contractors. Even our most senior Directors sit within their teams every day, providing strategic direction, and staying ‘hands-on’ throughout each project’s life.
CREATIVITY
Creativity may help to recognise fresh and previously unrecognised potential. Inventive spatial analyses that produce additional areas within a set envelope or ingenious methods for complicated and diverse locations may be used. Think. Think the opposite. Then think again. We will research your challenge from every possible angle. Our designs reconcile societal, sustainable, technical and financial parameters into a new reality that will elevate people’s lives. This all happens without losing the artistic side of architecture, and with every opportunity, we explore the options of being creative.
TRUST
It will always be our promise to create a truly outstanding design customised to each of our customers’ desires and preferences which matches their taste and exceeds their expectations. Many of our client relations have been sustainable partnerships. We take the time to really connect with their vision, and we’re already in harmony with their world – their business, their desires, their commercial imperatives, and their vision for the future. Our rare range of knowledge, empathy, and expertise ensures that they trust us with the major decisions and seek our guidance to spot inevitable problems before they arise. There’s no place for creative ego at Design-itude Associates. We will always do what is right for our clients and the project’s integrity, so our clients can be reassured their budget is in safe hands, and our doors are always open for them to come and see how we work. We are committed to turning the conceptual form of your building and its specific design ideas into reality. And we’ll be happy to stay involved right to the end, making sure that every detail works out as planned—bespoke perfection.
Our process is a journey of precision and innovation. From understanding the needs of communities to bringing dreams to life, we are committed to crafting exceptional experiences. During our process, each one of our steps is guided by clarity, collaboration, and a passion for excellence.
PROGRAMMING
We adopt a thorough approach by delving deeply into the lives and backgrounds of the individuals who drive our ventures and the communities they call home. This process culminates in a comprehensive programming guide that not only outlines the fundamental objectives of the community but also identifies potential challenges and articulates the hopes, expectations, and aspirations of its residents.
CONCEPT DESIGN
Concept design is more than just a stage in the process—it’s the foundation of every project we undertake. We believe in a holistic approach that begins with a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, aspirations, and the unique context of each project. Through collaborative brainstorming sessions and iterative exploration, we craft concepts that seamlessly blend creativity, functionality, and sustainability. Our designs not only meet the practical requirements of our clients but also resonate with their vision and values. With a focus on innovation and empathy, we strive to create concepts that inspire, engage, and ultimately enhance the human experience.
CONTRACTS
At DiA, we solidify partnerships with clarity and integrity. Here, transparent communication and meticulous attention to detail are paramount as we define the terms and expectations of our collaborations. Our experienced team navigates the complexities of contracts with precision, ensuring that all parties are aligned and empowered for success. Whether it’s negotiating terms, managing timelines, or addressing any potential challenges, we prioritize professionalism and fairness every step of the way. By fostering strong relationships built on trust and accountability, we lay the foundation for seamless project execution and mutual satisfaction.
TEAM BUILDING
At DiA, team building is more than just bringing together our talented architects and designers. It’s about fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. While we take pride in the expertise of our internal team, we also recognize the immense value in collaborating with external experts. By leveraging their diverse knowledge and perspectives, we enrich our projects and push the boundaries of innovation. Our approach to team building is all about creating dynamic partnerships, where every voice is heard and every skill is valued, ultimately leading to exceptional outcomes for our clients and our community.
DETAILED DESIGN
At the Detailed Design stage of our process, we bring visions to life with precision and ingenuity. Here, every detail matters as we meticulously refine concepts into tangible plans. Our expert team collaborates closely, leveraging their diverse skills and perspectives to ensure that each element is thoughtfully considered and expertly crafted. From architectural blueprints to intricate interior designs, we prioritize functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability at every turn. Through meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to excellence, we transform concepts into reality, delivering innovative solutions that surpass expectations and enrich the built environment.
THE BUILDING!
This is where we bring dreams to life with expertise and precision. Here, our skilled team transforms plans into reality, meticulously crafting each element with dedication and care. From groundbreaking to completion, we prioritize quality, efficiency, and safety, ensuring that every detail meets our exacting standards. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, we create trusting relationships with all stakeholders, and we construct spaces that inspire, enrich, and endure for generations to come.
PROGRAMMING
We adopt a thorough approach by delving deeply into the lives and backgrounds of the individuals who drive our ventures and the communities they call home. This process culminates in a comprehensive programming guide that not only outlines the fundamental objectives of the community but also identifies potential challenges and articulates the hopes, expectations, and aspirations of its residents.
CONCEPT DESIGN
Concept design is more than just a stage in the process—it’s the foundation of every project we undertake. We believe in a holistic approach that begins with a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, aspirations, and the unique context of each project. Through collaborative brainstorming sessions and iterative exploration, we craft concepts that seamlessly blend creativity, functionality, and sustainability. Our designs not only meet the practical requirements of our clients but also resonate with their vision and values. With a focus on innovation and empathy, we strive to create concepts that inspire, engage, and ultimately enhance the human experience.
CONTRACTS
At DiA, we solidify partnerships with clarity and integrity. Here, transparent communication and meticulous attention to detail are paramount as we define the terms and expectations of our collaborations. Our experienced team navigates the complexities of contracts with precision, ensuring that all parties are aligned and empowered for success. Whether it’s negotiating terms, managing timelines, or addressing any potential challenges, we prioritize professionalism and fairness every step of the way. By fostering strong relationships built on trust and accountability, we lay the foundation for seamless project execution and mutual satisfaction.
TEAM BUILDING
At DiA, team building is more than just bringing together our talented architects and designers. It’s about fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. While we take pride in the expertise of our internal team, we also recognize the immense value in collaborating with external experts. By leveraging their diverse knowledge and perspectives, we enrich our projects and push the boundaries of innovation. Our approach to team building is all about creating dynamic partnerships, where every voice is heard and every skill is valued, ultimately leading to exceptional outcomes for our clients and our community.
DETAILED DESIGN
At the Detailed Design stage of our process, we bring visions to life with precision and ingenuity. Here, every detail matters as we meticulously refine concepts into tangible plans. Our expert team collaborates closely, leveraging their diverse skills and perspectives to ensure that each element is thoughtfully considered and expertly crafted. From architectural blueprints to intricate interior designs, we prioritize functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability at every turn. Through meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to excellence, we transform concepts into reality, delivering innovative solutions that surpass expectations and enrich the built environment.
THE BUILDING!
This is where we bring dreams to life with expertise and precision. Here, our skilled team transforms plans into reality, meticulously crafting each element with dedication and care. From groundbreaking to completion, we prioritize quality, efficiency, and safety, ensuring that every detail meets our exacting standards. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, we create trusting relationships with all stakeholders, and we construct spaces that inspire, enrich, and endure for generations to come.
There are several key stages involved with each project, from the original idea, to the plan, to completion, and even beyond.
Every project is unique, with its own set of needs and nuances. That’s why we pride ourselves on our adaptability, tailoring our services to meet the specific ideas and requirements of each client.
Our collaborative approach ensures that we unearth the true value of your project, whether it’s creating your dream space or maximizing your return on investment.
No project is too big or too small; our estimated project budget ranges from £150,000 to £2,500,000.
We don’t just hand over drawings; instead, we offer a comprehensive range of assistance throughout the entire project lifecycle to ensure that every idea is brought to fruition.
STRATEGIC DEFINITION
In essence, our project goal is clear and concise: achieving consistency and desired outcomes. We conduct thorough analyses through various methods, including site assessments, stakeholder interviews, headcount audits, inventory surveys, and space utilization analysis. This comprehensive approach allows us to generate designs and prototypes that accurately model space requirements.
PREPARATION & BRIEF
During this stage, we begin by exploring procurement options for your project and recommending the most suitable approach. We conduct surveys and analyses, which may involve a building survey and below-ground utility searches to identify any potential unknowns. Throughout this process, we carefully consider your budget, plans, and design preferences to ensure alignment with your goals.
CONCEPT DESIGN
In this stage, we begin by exploring procurement options for your project and recommending the most suitable approach. We conduct surveys and analyses, which may involve a building survey and below-ground utility searches to identify any potential unknowns. Throughout this process, we carefully consider your budget, plans, and design preferences to ensure alignment with your goals.
DETAILED DESIGN
In this stage, we begin by exploring procurement options for your project and recommending the most suitable approach. We conduct surveys and analyses, which may involve a building survey and below-ground utility searches to identify any potential unknowns. Throughout this process, we carefully consider your budget, plans, and design preferences to ensure alignment with your goals.
TECHNICAL DESIGN
Following planning approval, we meticulously refine your project design to adhere to building codes and regulations. We then produce detailed construction plans, facilitating contractors and builders in submitting accurate estimates. This phase of our work prioritizes transparency, procedural excellence, and ultimately delivers an outstanding outcome.
CONSTRUCTION
As part of our responsibilities, we address any construction issues that may arise. We ensure compliance by obtaining signoffs from both the Building Control Officer and the Authorized Inspector, while closely monitoring project deadlines. Additionally, we coordinate with contractors to ensure the seamless utilization of your new space according to plan, minimizing avoidable delays.
HANDOVER
At this stage, we conduct final inspections to guarantee that your property meets the highest standards and specifications. We furnish you with as-built information, offer solutions to any defects, and extend support throughout this process. Ultimately, we issue a Completion Certificate, signifying the successful conclusion of your project.
IN USE
We maintain a strong connection with our clients, addressing any additional needs as they arise and conducting post-occupation research upon request. It's common for clients to require further information post-completion, such as when considering additional construction work or alterations to existing spaces.
TRADITIONAL PROCUREMENT
This is the most popular method in the procurement process. Per this strategy, procurement is independent of the design stage. The architect usually plans for the developer – on behalf of the Client – detailed documents (drawings, schedules of work, bills of quantities). Tenders are then requested for the provision of construction services. Features of this procurement path include:
- The selection of the contractor is generally by means of a competitive tender.
- Detailed information must be included for the bidding process. Time is critical in which the information prepared is sufficient.
- The overall process starting from design till completion is always slower because design and construction are different processes.
- There is a degree of clarity over building costs when the contract figure is negotiated at the tender stage, but this will need to be changed at a later stage if the works were varied.
- The Client would usually need to select a specialist contractor to serve as a contract administrator. The architect usually performs this role.
- As the design progresses, any modifications to the design are to be accounted for and can prolong construction time.
- The contractor must complete the work within a given time, but is allowed to extend the delivery period due to delays for the above purposes stated in the contract.
In summary, this is a reasonably low-risk method of procurement that provides the customer with time, expense and quality management. The downside is the amount of time taken to finish the project, because the design and development phases are different.
DESIGN & BUILD
In this procurement method, the contractor is responsible for performing the design and installation of the works at the negotiated lump sum amount. With this option, the client only has power over the design used in the employer’s specifications. The key characteristics of the acquisition path include:
- The contractor's design liability varies based on how well the design has been worked out by the client and is included in the customer's specifications.
- Enough time must be given to planning the client's specifications, which are usually collected by the advisory staff of the client (architect, structural engineer etc.). Time is also required for the contractor to prepare design proposals and tenders.
- The client's specifications will vary from a basic accommodation plan to a completely worked-out scheme.
- The concept plans of the consultant shall conform to the specifications of the client.
- Design and construction can move in tandem. This has the effect of shortening the average length of the project. The project's length may vary based on how much responsibility the contractor has for the design.
- The contract amount is pre-construction, meaning there is a fair cost certainty for the buyer.
- The appointed contractor is expected to complete the project within the time limit of the contract.
- If the client makes improvements to the works during the building process, these can result in increased expenses for the client and extra time to execute the construction work.
- An independent contract administrator is not needed. The deal is initiated by the contractor instead. The client may appoint an agent to advise or act on its behalf.
MANAGEMENT
In this type of procurement, the final specification is the responsibility of the client’s consultants, and the primary contractor is responsible.
for determining specific packages or commercial contracts, and then overseeing this work’s execution by separate trades or work contracts.
The key characteristics of this path include:
- The client appoints consultants to design the project, detail specifications and budget plans.
- The client would have to select an impartial contract administrator as part of the technical team.
- It is advantageous for the planned contractor to be engaged as soon as possible, as they can have experience in the design and programming of project work packages.
- Development should be carried out in conjunction with construction so that early on-site start is always feasible, and the total build time can be reduced as a result.
- There is no clarity at the outset about costs and work continues based on the expense schedule. The project's final cost will not be established until the final work package has been implemented, but costs will be tracked and managed by the employer's professional team.
- The client influences the construction of the whole project by their professional team (architect, structural engineer etc.).
- Design adjustments are necessary during the construction phase so that the changes do not impact the work on packages already approved, which may result in aborted work.
- Completion during the contract period is a responsibility of the contractor, and extensions of time cannot be given without the contract administrator's consent.
- Risk is to a large degree with the employer, in terms of costs and time.
- A degree of confidence and in-house experience is expected in the management of procurement programmes.
Set fee: a lump sum, based on how much work the team would have to do.
Percentage of project costs: these will vary from 1.5 per cent to 20 per cent – typically, the greater the project, the less the percentage.
By the hour: that's pretty easy to grasp – that's the way both plumbers and lawyers tend to work.
We will typically perform an initial consultation and present our fee, free of charge if the documentation and meeting enable us to establish the work’s complexity readily. The consultation allows us to determine your brief and the framework for which we will be presenting our fee. The fee plan is viewed as a lump sum and negotiated in-depth and decided with you before we start work.
WE LIKE TO BE OPEN AND TRANSPARENT.
When we are asked the question, how much does an architect charge? Or at what cost would it be to expand my building? Then followed by, how much time will you require on my project? And, what activities do’ you envision being done on each step of a design process?
We want to be as open and honest as possible. It depends on the type of project, the scale of the project, and the scope of the project. Generally speaking, the bigger the project in terms of scale and/or expense.
the smaller the fees would be as a proportion of the overall construction cost.
We have a transparent price system based on data from the industry in order to be in the value-based pricing category. We know how long things take to do and what our rivals do to achieve their productivity.
WE OFFER A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION.
We don’t work of template fee proposals nor graphs even though they could be straightforward and simple, but we think the easiest way to start a project is to visit you and sit down and chat about it, and we’re happy to do it for free. This initial meeting gives us a real feel for your goals, aspirations, timescale and budget and helps us advise on styling options and visual design constraints. We will also advise you if you might require any other consultants, Planning Permission, Building Regulations and Listed Building Consent, and recognise any potential or possible issues early. We will then follow up with a comprehensive fee estimate.
HOW TO GET A FEE PROPOSAL
Due to differences in the scope of the work required and its complexity, we do not produce a fixed price or guide. Every project we design is unique in its own sense, and our fee proposals clearly reflect the time we anticipate required to complete your project.
Providing us with more detail about the project would make it easier for us to submit a more accurate fee proposal. Helpful details including whether the project is a new build, an expansion or conversion, location, an estimate of the scale and whether your land is historically significant or a listed building. Any known constraints will always be useful if identified early in the project.
We will always be transparent on our fees, as we are not looking to be the most expensive, rather the most proficient.
To always get in the loop, drop us a thread! Please fill the form on the connect page to let us know more about your project!
