NOT JUST A PRETTY PICTURE....



So why would you need an Architect?  What does an Architect do?  



Well, when you engage Enspire to look into design of any project, big or small, there are a number of things we will consider in moving the project forward successfully (the following is not exhaustive)!...

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INITIALLY: We will consider the site, general restrictions, obstacles on site and in the surroundings, neighbouring styles and scales, topography, levels, orientation, sun paths, optimum solar collection orientation, overshadowing effects, massing, public visibility, existing layouts, existing drainage situation, general impediments to development, develop an initial brief with Client, consider budget constraints, explain the process from drawing board through construction to finishing touches, advise early indicative costs, explain statutory and professional fees,  feasibility layouts

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MAIN DESIGN: Consider local planning stipulations (different in every County), parking requirements, Road Department restrictions, produce sketches, 2D plans, 3D model images, feasibility options, involve the Client in design development, assess tastes and preferences, site layouts, landscape arrangements, site dimensional and level survey, plot existing scenario, elevations existing and proposed,  liaise with Planning Department, consider Building Warrant restrictions (Technical Design) in any presented design option, be mindful of budget, explore materials, locally sourced and energy-mindful selection of materials, aesthetics and style, contemporary / traditional approach, make appropriate planning applications, liaise with Planning Authority, address neighbour objections where appropriate, add value to site, efficiency, style...



TECHNICAL DESIGN: Apply space standards, fire issues, escape routes, occupancy capacities, lobbies, minimum door widths, glazing sizes, compensatory calculations, insulation calculations, assess best insulation strategies, energy efficiency, solar collection, renewables, heating appliances, solid  / gas / liquid fuel appliances, combustible materials, extraction, flue requirements, access arrangements, lighting, electrics, outlet and switch positioning, drainage strategies, pipe routing & maintenance access, duct formation, minimum landings lengths, ramp gradients, stair stipulations (pitch, head heights, risers, goings, handrails tread widths, nosings, flights, landings), protective barriers, window heights, cleanable windows, glazing specifications, explore construction methods, panel arrangements and types, finishes, sound insulation, sanitaryware, maintenance access, cold bridging, condensation analysis, detail development, specifications, notes, sectional drawings, structural considerations, liaise with structural engineer, address queries raised by Building Standards, Building Warrant application packages, fixtures and fittings, furniture positioning, health & safety issues, ease of construction, obtain Building Warrants to allow construction...



TENDERING PROCESS: Develop scope of works, suggest appropriate potential builders, obtain comparative quotes, identify cost savings where appropriate, liaise with tenderers, develop details, advise preliminary costs and provisional sums, expand specifications, pre-start meetings, re-tender where necessary, explore alternative design options associated with costs, confirm insurances and liabilities, H&S issues, reports to Client, assess costs between tenderers, identify anomalies, investigate references



CONSTRUCTION PROCESS: Programmes of work, build periods, additional details throughout construction phase, site visits, ensure compliance with Building Standards & approved drawings,  advice to contractor as required, reports to Client, snagging lists, amendment to warrant applications, payment terms, efficiently deal with site queries and information requests........and more.