The Three C’s - Concept, Compliance & Construction - is a simplified adaptation of the RIBA Plan of Work that groups the design and delivery process into three clear phases. It provides a streamlined framework from initial idea through regulatory approval to on-site construction.

Concept

This stage is about defining the vision and requirements for your project and begins the structured development of the design. Together with your architect, you identify the main goals, outline what you want from the building, and assess the project’s feasibility in terms of budget, timeline and site constraints. A detailed project brief is developed, describing the specific functions, aesthetic goals and any early limitations such as planning permissions or building regulations.

Initial concept design ideas are then explored through sketches and early visualisations, focusing on overall layout, scale and how different spaces relate to one another. At this stage, broad decisions are made around the general appearance, material direction, structural approach and internal layout, allowing you to start shaping how the building will look and function.

This is also when you begin assembling your project team, which may include specialists or consultants depending on the complexity of the scheme. The concept stage provides an opportunity to review options, give feedback and refine ideas before the design is developed further. By the end of this stage, you will have a clear brief, a preferred design direction and a strong foundation to progress into more detailed design work.

Compliance

This stage focuses on ensuring the design fully meets all regulatory, technical and coordination requirements prior to construction. The architect and consultants develop detailed drawings and technical information to demonstrate compliance with building regulations, planning conditions and other statutory requirements. This includes coordination of structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as specification of materials and key construction details. The design is refined and checked to ensure it is buildable, coordinated and fully compliant, with any outstanding technical issues resolved. By the end of this stage, the design is effectively finalised and approved for construction, providing the contractor with the clear, coordinated information needed to proceed on site.

Construction

With the detailed design complete, construction can begin. The contractor and their team set up the site, procure materials, and start building according to the approved design and technical specifications. During construction, the architect acts as a contract administrator and quality check between the client and the builder. Their role is to make sure the work on site is being carried out in line with the design, contract and agreed specifications.

They visit the site at key stages to review progress, check workmanship, and ensure materials and details are being delivered as intended. If issues arise, the architect helps clarify the design, assess proposed changes, and agree appropriate solutions with the contractor.

They also manage the contract process, which includes certifying payments as work is completed, assessing any changes to cost or time, and confirming when key stages or the overall project have been properly completed. The aim is to keep the project on track, maintain quality, and ensure the client gets what was designed and agreed.

Services

• Home Extensions

• Loft Conversions

• Whole House Renovations

• Planning Applications

• Building Regulations

• Construction Support

• Low Energy Retrofit