Our Process

In our studio, we believe that beautiful homes begin with beautiful design. Our ethos is timeless residential architecture that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with innovative modern concepts.

This inspired approach is deeply rooted in creating trust and rapport with our clients – a connection which carries us through the design process to the culmination of the project. We begin each brief by establishing a relationship and having thoughtful conversations, knowing that every detail matters.

The team at Christopher David Design feature an abundance of experience and skill in architecture, interior design, landscape design and project management. We uphold the most exacting standards, collaborating with a trusted network of artisans, tradespeople and craftspeople and liaising directly with builders, trades and other consultants.

The beauty of architectural design is in its synergy of surroundings, skill and resources, and our creative process celebrates that. From concept to completion, we ensure that our clients truly enjoy the design journey.

1. Client Requirements

The first stage of the project begins with an exploration of client requirements, budget and context. In this initial phase, we conduct an appraisal to establish scope and design ambition, and we begin to understand the client’s core objectives for the project.

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2. Project Brief

After gathering the vital preliminary information about the project, we prepare an initial project brief. We incorporate findings from the preliminary research stage, as well as the risk assessment, agreed budget and our understanding of the scope of work and client requirements.

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3. Concept Design

In this stage, the architecture design concept is developed. This includes initial sketches, plans, and ideas to illustrate the project's design direction. Following the measured survey, we’ll produce a complete set of drawings that precisely depict the existing space.

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4. Planning Permission

Working towards planning permission with an architect means collaborating closely to develop a design that fulfils the design brief while satisfying council requirements. Throughout this process, we will continuously check back to your design brief, and assess, adapt and refine your design into a feasible project.

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5. Technical Design Building Regulations

Once planning permission has been obtained, we will prepare a detailed set of technical architectural design drawings for tendering purposes. These are used to receive detailed and accurate estimates from builders and to ensure the project meets building regulations.

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6. Building Contract

Once the technical design specifications have been agreed and finalised, we can enter the construction phase. This begins with contract tendering and appraisal of tenders; we invite up to six trusted contractors to tender for a project.

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7. Project Management

Once the site is prepared and building work has begun, our role as begins to focus on project management. We will be on hand to administer the contract through the build process right through to completion – issuing instructions, approving staged (milestone) payment certificates and generally monitoring the progress of the works.

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8. Completion Handover

When construction is complete, we move on to commissioning, testing and handover. At this stage, all of the collaboration and effort of the previous months has come fully to life, and the resulting space is ready to live in and enjoy.

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Get in Touch...

We can help bring your project to life. Please leave us a message with project details, and we'll contact you to schedule a free consultation.

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Our Latest Projects

Heathfield House

Tucked away in the charming village of Arkley in Hertfordshire, Barnet Lodge involved a complete interior redesign of a pre-fabricated mock-Tudor style property. The project entails a full refurbishment and reconfiguration of the ground floor plan to optimise available space in the property. The result is a design that lends itself to modern living, achieving an elegant and refined home tailored to accommodate a growing young family.

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Orchard Court

Focusing on landscape design, Orchard Court features an extensive renovation of the external areas of the property, refining outdoor areas and including a luscious range of planting. The project includes a new pool building and pool complete with an outdoor built in barbeque area and Japanese Garden.

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