How do we establish what needs done when, and which levels of service are required?

 

The RIBA Plan of Work is a simple framework we use to guide your project from first ideas to life in your home. It breaks the journey down into the various stages explained below, so you always know what’s happening, what decisions are needed, and what comes next.

 

Not every project needs every stage, but it gives us a shared roadmap to keep things clear, flexible, and stress-free.

​

Why it helps: A short conversation early on can save time, money and frustration later.

Is This the Right Project?

 

This optional early stage is about sense‑checking your ideas before design work begins.

We can help you:

• Talk through your ideas, priorities and budget

• Highlight any obvious planning or site constraints

• Discuss likely costs, timescales and risks

• Advise on how the project might be delivered

​

Why it helps: A short conversation early on can save time, money and frustration later.

Establishing Your Needs

​

This stage is about understanding how you want to live in your home and turning that into a clear brief.

This usually includes:

• Measuring and surveying your existing property

• Reviewing planning policy and local restrictions

• Helping you define spaces, size, quality and priorities

• Making sure your budget and expectations align

​

Your role: Tell us how you live now, what’s not working, and what you’d like to change.

Exploring Ideas

​

This is where your ideas start to take shape.

We will:

• Explore layout options and design ideas

• Look at how the spaces flow, feel and function

• Consider how the building might look from inside and out

• Start thinking about structure, services and sustainability

​

Outcome: A clear design direction that feels right for you and works within your budget.

Developing the Design

​

Once a preferred option is agreed, the design is refined and coordinated.

This stage typically includes:

• Developed drawings showing plans, sections and elevations

• Coordinating the design with structural engineers and other consultants

• Refining materials and construction approach

• Preparing information for planning or pre‑application submissions

​​​

Outcome: A well‑resolved design ready to submit for planning approval.

Progressing the Technical Design

​

This stage focuses on the detailed information needed to build the project properly.

We prepare:

• Detailed construction drawings and specifications

• Information required for Building Standards approval

• Coordinated technical details to reduce risk on site

• Drawings and information to obtain accurate prices from builders

​

Why it matters: Good technical information helps control costs, avoid misunderstandings and achieve a high‑quality finish.

Construction

​

If appointed, we can stay involved during the build to help protect your interests.

This can include:

• Visiting site to review progress and quality

• Answering contractor questions as they arise

• Reviewing samples and key details

• Administering the building contract

​

Your benefit: Independent professional oversight helps ensure the work is carried out as designed.

Completion and Handover

​

As the project finishes, we help guide it to completion.

This may include:

• Final inspections and snagging

• Supporting practical completion

• Reviewing handover information and warranties​​

​

Outcome: A finished home that’s ready to enjoy.

Living in Your Home

​

This optional stage looks at how the building performs once you’re living in it.

This might involve:

• A post‑completion review

• Advice on maintenance and future changes

• Learning what worked well to inform future projects