OUR PROCESS

Our RIBA practice specialises in extensions and refurbishment of residential homes. EMR is able to provide a customised service covering all client’s needs.

We manage everything for you from the planning application (we have a 100% rate of successful applications) to the day you move in, accompanying you step by step, being clear about the constraints that you may encounter in planning, construction, dealing with neighbours etc. but always finding ways to get there, reducing the stress level. 

Building works can be complex and stressful, as it often leads to unexpected costs while spending a lot of your personal time dealing with the project if you try to do it on your own, 

EMR promise:

• A daily Project Management and building renovation expertise with an eye for details. 
• A single intermediary between you and the different contractors, overlooking them on site while liaising with you at your most convenient time.
• Great level of detailed drawings by us, while being fully practical for your everyday life,

We define our work in the 7 stages described below

Stage 0: Consultation

Free phone consultation on your property (or a property you are looking to buy) to advise on design and refurbishment options. We can also meet you at your house, but would charge for that visit.

Stage 1: Strategic Definition

Taking the client initial brief I then work to make sure that the requirements are achievable and affordable. I check the feasibility of the project accordingly and talk through options in order for the client to gain a greater understanding of the opportunities presented by the project, often more than they sometimes expect and to help them decide the most appropriate approach to design and construction. This is a critical stage to make sure the project will be successful. 

Stage 2 – Preparation and Brief 

We send the client a brief summary which identifies the key requirements and restrictions. Other members of the design team that are required will also be identified. This is likely to include a structural engineer, a party wall surveyor, building control and CDM Advisor. Depending on the complexity of the project, a cost consultant, a mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineer could be appointed as well as a landscape architect, Audio-Visual consultant or lighting consultant.

This is also a good stage to start engaging in discussions with neighbours for a smooth party wall experience. This allows for the proposals to be discussed with those affected by them in order to avoid causing unproductive anxiety and also as a matter of courtesy. I always try to respond positively and helpfully to the concerns and interests of the neighbours. 

Stage 3 – Concept Design 

At that stage we sketch the house and get the planning application set ready for submission (normally takes 8 weeks for approval). 

Stage 4 – Developed Design

We prepare the developed designs to a further level of detail, this includes construction details, integrates structural design, building services systems, insulations and other specifications discussed with the client . We then submit the plans to a Building Control Approved Inspector for feedback to ensure that the proposals are compliant with Building Regulations. We recommend private building control companies that are very efficient and experts. 

Stage 5 – Technical Design

At this stage the developed designs are done to tender drawings. We work on technical specifications so that tendering contractors can price the building elements accurately. Cost consultants should also finalise the cost plan based on the updated information (if required). This final documentation must also be given to the CDM Coordinator who will then draw up a pre-tender Health and Safety plan.

On average it takes about 2/3 weeks for tenderers to get back with a quote proposal

Tenders quotes are reviewed, tenders are obtained and negotiations of the tender sums can be started if necessary. Revisions to the Technical Design can also be made to meet adjustments in the tender sum. 

Once an approved tender sum and tenderer have been identified the contract can now be agreed and a contractor appointed, the Technical Design is issued to the contractor and the Client arranges for the site to be handed over.

By the end of this stage, all aspects of the construction designs will be completed. This includes the house layout with furniture positions, the electrical and plumbing plans. Any specific details such as AV, accoustic insulation, plumbing details.

Stage 6 – Construction Project Management

This stage involves co-ordination between clients and contractors & daily management to review progress, issue instructions, and manage time and budget.

It is also the time for design such as joinery, kitchen, bathrooms and general material and colour choices. 

Stage 7 - Interior Design

Although the floor layout has been decided at Technical drawing stage, we continue working on all Design aspects while the construction carries on. This is time for choice of kitchen, bathrooms elements, skirtings, architrave, imongory, floors, tiles, colour scheme, garden design etc.

Stage 7- Delivery 

We are around when you move in and make sure that all the snagging is done. We also make sure you are looked after by the builder in the event you want to make some small changes such as adding decorative items or if there is any small issue to fix. 

We also make sure that you are issued with all the necessary certificates such as Building Control, Electrics & Gas.

We specialise in creating beautiful homes in Kensington, Notting Hill, Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham, Wandsworth and Chiswick. But can also do Planning and Construction packs for other areas of London.