Stages - Modular
Architects follow a process, a modular process.
It breaks down the many layers of communication into manageable, focused parts — from concept and planning to technical coordination and construction.
The following is a simplified explanation of the RIBA Stages of Work.
Architecture is about communication and people.
When we say “architecture is communication,” we’re highlighting the many layers of dialogue involved in the design and construction process. And depending on who we talk to or at what stage, we need very different information, drawings and plans.
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With the client – we listen deeply to their requirements, values, routines, and aspirations. We translate dreams and missing spaces into built form.
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With the site – we respond to weather, light, views, topography, and the story of the place.
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Through spaces – circulation, functionality, light, sound, smell, scale, feeling, comfort
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Through the structure – materials, junctions, and forms speak with clarity or complexity, expressing intention.
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Via drawings and models – we use visual languages to instruct, inspire, coordinate, and negotiate. These tools are part of legal contracts, but also acts of persuasion.
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With consultants and engineers – we align technical performance with design intent through clear collaboration.
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To builders on site – we communicate with precision to avoid misunderstandings, errors, or delays.
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With local authorities – we engage with policies, heritage, and planning constraints through reasoned dialogue and advocacy.
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With the community – we engage and support the community
The words story, history, and storey share a linguistic origin — each reflecting layers of meaning, memory, and space.
That’s why we find the word stories very meaningful.
The process of architecture is a story.
The relationship between spaces in a building is a story.
The building itself tells a story in its environment.
And the people who interact with it continue the story — turning it into history.
What happens?
Advice at this stage is available on an hourly basis and includes initial consultations, design advice before you buy (pre-purchase assessments), visiting and inspecting a property, feasibility studies and early-stage concepts, development and investment potential studies, planning strategy and risk analysis, as well as providing advice, second opinions, and refining the designs of others.
What happens?
Quality of information and Service
Timescales, Deadlines
Set your brief: What do you want, and what are the must-haves? Planning Strategy
Check feasibility: Can your idea be built within your budget?
Site survey & research: Check restrictions, planning permissions, services and risks.
Involvement of other consultants: Structural Engineer, Heritage Consultant, Planning Consultant, Drain Survey, Interior Designer, Landscape Designer, Ecological Survey.
Measured survey of the site and building: Ensure accurate measurements for planning and construction and as a handover documentation.
Create design options: Sketches and layouts to explore solutions.
Cost estimate: Keep an eye on the budget early on.
Planning application: Submit if needed. Permitted Development, Certificate of Lawfulness
CDM (Health and Safety): Identify risks in design & construction. For example Asbestos
Planning what to build, how it looks, and ensuring you can afford it.
The RIBA (Royal Institute for British Architects) terminology
Stage 0 – Preparation & Brief: Defining your needs.
Stage 1 – Strategic Definition: Research and surveys.
Stage 2 – Concept Design: Sketches and initial ideas.
Stage 3 – Spatial Coordination: Refining layouts and preparing planning applications.
What happens?
Technical drawings: Builders get detailed instructions.
Building regulations approval: Ensure compliance before issuing drawings.
Final budget & contractor selection: Compare prices and sign a contract.
Construction begins: The project takes shape on-site.
Architect/site visits: Ensure quality and track progress.
CDM (safety on-site): Monitor safe working conditions.
Providing technical drawings and details, hiring the builder, and starting construction while managing costs and safety.
The RIBA (Royal Institute for British Architects) terminology
Stage 4 – Technical Design: Building regulations, detailed drawings, and contractor selection.
Stage 5 – Manufacturing & Construction: The project is built on-site.
What happens?
On smaller projects, this stage plays a less important role, but it’s still important to provide all the necessary documentation and drawings for the future upkeep.
Final checks: Ensure everything is built correctly.
Snagging list: Fix small issues before completion.
Handover: You get the keys and move in.
Provide drawings and documentation as constructed
Final cost report: Any last adjustments.
Ongoing maintenance: Who to contact if issues arise.
CDM (safety for use): Ensure the space is safe for long-term use.
Checking the finished project, moving in, and knowing who to call if anything needs fixing.
The RIBA (Royal Institute for British Architects) terminology
Stage 6 – Handover: Final checks, snagging, and moving in.
Stage 7 – Use: Using and maintaining your space.