Frequently Asked Questions Architect services

Our design philosophy is centered around creating sustainable and functional spaces that meet the needs of our clients while also being environmentally responsible.

As stated on the RIBA website;

Architects are highly skilled and professionally trained to turn your aspirations into reality. They will guide you through the design, planning and construction process whether you are constructing a new building or adapting an existing property.

Architects apply impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small. They add value, whether from maximising light and space, adding functionality, or achieving the best return on your investment.

Here at Live Site Studio, we endeavor to provide our clients with the best service possible. We provide design services that align with our clients aspirations,  providing advice of the process.  Combined we have over 25years in the industry working on a range of varied projects in the UK and internationally.

Yes, we are RIBA Chartered and ARB accredited. 

As identified on the RIBA website;

The title ‘architect’ is protected by law (Architects Act 1997), so that only those who have undergone rigorous training and are fully qualified, can rightly use it. Watch out for companies styling themselves as ‘architectural’ designers or similar wording as this is likely to indicate that they are not qualified architects.

All architects must be registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), with most taking up RIBA membership also. If an individual has neither credential then they may be operating unregulated, providing you with no guarantees of their ability to deliver the service you require.

We provide cost of our services on a project specific basis. We therefore will give a break down of our services with cost following a review of your brief and property.

Architects fees can vary from 8%-15% of your total construction cost. This is then broken into stages throughout the project. Interior Design fees vary. Contact us today and we can provide you with a no obligation quotation.

Concept designs are considered ideas for your property. At this initial stage, we will provide you with a number of ideas that could be possible for your project in line with your brief. 

The type of planning permission needed for your project would be determined during our feasibility study and concept ideas stage. Further information on planning in England can be found here https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission

More information on Building regulations can be found here;

https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control

We do not guarantee proposals will get approval. Any additional works will be at an additional cost. When developing the design we are mindful of current planning policies and legislation. 

No, we liaise with a structural engineer on the clients behalf. We would provide drawings to  the structural engineer and update our drawings inline with their design. Structural Engineer costs are in addition to our fees and should be paid directly by the client

There are  contractors/builders we have worked with in numerous areas throughout the country, however we do review each project individually and assess suitability. As a part of the tender process we provide potential contractors with a Pre Qualification Questionnaire that identifies their credentials and experience. 

Of course! We provide a feasibility package that assesses the site/building/brief and provide a few Concept designs for your project. Concept ideas are considered ideas for your property. 

Prepare any questions you may have about the process. 

Prepare description of what it is you are wanting to achieve. 

• Timeframe
• Budget 
• If you have any builders in mind already
• A brief history of the building if you know. 
• Identify any current information you have on the building that would be available to us if we were to take your project forward.

We usually provide a 15minute initial consultation free of charge. Project depending, this being either over the phone or on site. This is not free design advice.

We have experience and knowledge in working with older and heritage buildings.

We can provide an approximate cost per sqm, however we advise clients to engage with a cost estimating service or quantity surveyor to provide a more specific breakdown for costs. We work with these other consultants on the clients behalf. 

We provide architectural services throughout the UK and occasionally internationally! Some local areas being; Kings Langley, Abbots Langley, St Albans, Chipperfield, Croxley Green, Berkhamsted, Feldon, Hemel Hempstead,  Watford, Flaunden, Aylesbury, Hitchin, Leighton Buzzard, Tring, Luton, London.. and many more! Contact us today to discuss your project!