We will often visit a client’s property before being appointed on a project. When you first contact us, we will do a thorough fact find of the project and will request information you may have such as plans of the property (Estate Agent drawings are usually enough at this stage) or previous history. We will do some further research like looking on planning portals.
This information allows us to better understand the particular conditions of the site and build up a clear picture of the site context, topography, and orientation, as well as any potential constraints or opportunities that might impact the design later down the line.
Depending on the project, we might have enough information to discuss on an initial telephone or video consultation. With over 300 projects completed, we have a great understanding of building typology in London. We might decide that an architecture site visit in person is beneficial instead of the initial call or after as a second meeting.
During this meeting, either in person or video, your architect may discuss your goals and preferences for the project, as well as ascertain your budget and timeline. Together we can work out whether we are a good fit for one another and create a clear proposal that meets your needs.
However, it is important to note that it is not always appropriate to visit a site prior to being appointed, for example if you are based quite far from us we might start with a virtual meeting. We may also prefer to meet with the client in our office first to discuss the project in more general terms, before scheduling an architecture site visit if we go on to be selected for the work.
In some instances, we may need to charge an hourly rate for an architecture site visit. During the visit, we are providing advice and design ideas so it will be of value. It also reassures us that it is a serious enquiry.
Every project is unique and we will always work with clients to create a process and way of communicating that they feel comfortable with.