Step 1: A Client with an Appetite for Something Unique.
Whilst the brief was simple -’ a single storey rear extension to the kitchen to provide a shower room’ – the client was passionate about doing something ‘different’. Their first step was to find an innovative architect, and to give them creative freedom to think outside the box.
Step 2: Developing a Functional Design that Oozes Creativity.
We always start with a rigorous analysis of the existing and how the brief might best be met. A functional diagram crystallizes, over which design layers are then applied, including form, materials and light. At Bedford Drive, the existing kitchen was already a long, narrow space, linked to small dining and seating zones. The challenge was to lengthen the room further, without creating a corridor effect. We did so by exploding the ‘box’; by expressing the various parts of the extension – spine, glazed structure, roof plane and podium – shifting their geometry, and creating movement towards the garden. At the garden end of the extension, the glazed structure pushes out beyond the roof plane, whilst the kitchen counter and timber spine drop away, creating a sense of expansion into the garden. The space is also flooded with light, making you feel almost outside.
Step 3: Checking Affordability and Submitting to the LPA.
With the concept agreed, a cost analysis was prepared to check that the design was affordable. Often, a value engineering exercise follows, where the design is tweaked to bring down the costs. In this case, the design survived without compromises, and planning drawings were prepared, submitted and approved without issues being raised by the local authority.
Step 4: Technical Design and Choosing a Contractor.
On receipt of planning approval, the technical design is prepared, then issued to trusted builders for them to tender. Following tender comparisons and meetings with the bidding contractors, in this instance, John Cunney Ltd was selected to procure the Bedford Drive project.
Step 5: Solid Resourcing of the Construction Phase.
The next step is one that smaller projects all too often deviate from – to have a formal contract drawn up between the client and the contractor, and to have this administered via our Client Liaison service, whilst also being at hand to assist the build. For Bedford Drive, a JCT Minor Works contract was used, and a framework of fortnightly site meetings established to check progress, review Contractor’s invoices, agree all variations, and discuss forthcoming works/ details/ actions. Whilst the framework for the build is captured by the technical design (RIBA Stage 4), there will be many smaller details that require attention as construction progresses. To help deal with these, we recommend that a budget is set aside for our input during RIBA Stage 5 (the construction stage). The regular framework of meetings allows us to keep on top of decision making and also facilitates our duty as Principal Designer, which the new Building Safety Act requires all clients to appoint. Failure to do so endangers the issue of a final certificate by Building Control.
Summary.
More than halfway into the build at Bedford Drive, works are progressing efficiently, without hiccups and to a high standard, making the construction process relatively stress free for the client. Whilst there is a fee attached to our Client Liaison service, the benefit is the peace of mind that the contractor is not being overpaid (which would expose you to financial risk), that they are implementing the design as intended, and ultimately, that the high quality Studiogötz brand translates to a high-end product on site that delights, inspires and transforms your home and the way you live.
