higgins + higgins | architects
We provide full architectural services from feasibility, concept design thropugh to scheme design and construction drawings.
We deal with all aspects of the project from permitted development, planning submissions, listed building consent and building control drawings/advice.
As standard, we work to the RIBA [Royal Institute of Architects] stages which are briefly described below:
Stage 1: Preparation & Briefing – The Foundations
Now that we have a vision, we build the team and the plan. We gather detailed information about your site, consult with necessary experts, and refine your project brief into a final document. This stage ensures that everyone—from architects to consultants—knows exactly what we are building, who we are building it for, and what success looks like.
Stage 2: Concept Design – Bringing Ideas to Life
This is where the excitement begins. We take your brief and translate it into initial design ideas. You’ll see sketches, mood boards, and early site plans that show how the building might look and function. We’ll also conduct early cost estimates to ensure the design matches your budget expectations. It’s a collaborative phase of testing ideas and finding the best creative solution for your site.
Stage 3: Spatial Coordination – Refining the Vision
Once a concept is chosen, we get down to the detail. This stage focuses on how the building actually works. We coordinate the architecture with engineering and building services (like heating and lighting) to ensure everything fits perfectly. By the end of this stage, the design is "frozen"—you’ll have a clear, coordinated set of drawings that define the shape, size, and layout of your project.
Stage 4: Technical Design – The Blueprint for Construction
This is the most technical phase. We produce a comprehensive set of detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules that act as the instruction manual for the builders. We resolve the final construction details—how walls are joined, which materials are used, and how the building complies with building regulations. This stage removes the guesswork, ensuring that when we hit the site, the project is ready to go.
Stage 5: Manufacturing & Construction – Building Reality
The vision moves from the page to the site. Whether it’s off-site manufacturing or on-site building, we oversee the process to ensure the quality matches the designs. We act as your advocate, managing the contractor and responding to any questions that arise during construction, making sure the project stays on track, on budget, and true to the original vision.
Stage 6: Handover – Moving In
The building is finished, but our work isn’t quite done. We coordinate the final inspections, ensure all systems are running correctly, and provide you with the necessary certification and operational manuals. We facilitate the handover so you can move into your space with confidence, knowing exactly how your new building operates.
Stage 7: Use – Post-Occupancy
A building is a living thing, and its performance matters. In this final stage, we look at how the building is settling in. We often conduct a "post-occupancy evaluation" to see how the space is working for you in reality compared to our initial plans. It’s an opportunity to fine-tune systems, ensure long-term maintenance is planned for, and celebrate the final success of your project.
Fees:
Our fees are generally based on construction value/complexity of the project - ideally we prefer to meet the client at Stage 0 and property to understand exactly what each project may involve.
A good explanation is provided in this video provided by RIBA.