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The ethos of Colman Architects is to work closely with Clients to refine designs and produce elegant, cost effective, sustainable solutions.
Established in 1988, the ethos of Colman Architects is to work closely with Clients to refine designs and produce cost effective, sustainable, elegant solutions having developed detailed expertise in the areas of Master Planning, Offices, Residential, Retail, Leisure, Interior Design and Mixed Use.
The size of the firm, between 20-35 architects, enables the board of Directors to have an intimate knowledge of every project from start to
finish. The strong senior management team has developed over many years and every person is an expert in their respective field. They are responsible for the practice’s reputation for quality control and hands on management.
This has been developed over our 25+ years of successfully delivering construction projects and follows the principles established in the RIBA’s Plan of Work.
Strategic definition, Preparation and Brief
RIBA Stages 0-1
We pride ourselves on seeing the hidden potential for any existing building or site; often proposing alternative solutions to those envisaged by our Clients and surpassing their original expectations.
During these early stages, we will help assemble the project team by recommending other consultants that we have successfully worked with in our 25+ years of practice. We will advise on or create project programmes, contact planning departments for advice on policy and local requirements and help our Clients define the Project Brief.
Concept Design and Developed Design
RIBA Stages 2-3
When developing our designs, we seek to provide the best aesthetic solution whilst ensuring the commercial aspect of the project is maintained. Adding value to our Client’s assets is of paramount importance and will be at the forefront of any decision we make.
We work closely with our Cost Consultant during the early stages of a project and through them, provide regular cost updates to our Clients. Once a scheme is approved and deemed to be financially viable, we will submit the necessary planning applications; typically managing the process and coordinating the information provided by any other consultants.
Technical Design to Construction
RIBA Stages 4-5
Regular communication and good working relationships within a Design Team are essential when developing a project to a technical design stage and subsequently, to Tender. As a practice, we are approachable, pro-active and excellent problem solvers. We will drive a Design Team as Lead Consultant to ensure that deadlines are met, whilst moral is kept high.
We advise our Client on the procurement method and type of Building Contract we deem appropriate for the project. We will also obtain the appropriate Building Regulations approvals prior to starting on site and advise our Clients during the selection of a preferred contractor.
Handover, Close Out and Building In Use
RIBA Stages 6-7
We will ensure that the level of finishes are at the highest possible standard before signing off and certifying its completion. We do this through regular inspections and clearly audited procedures to ensure that the intended completion and handover date be met, as programmed.
Approaching completion, we will work to ensure that the handover is as seamless as possible. We take great pride in our completed projects and in particular, the satisfaction it brings to our Clients and the buildings’ future inhabitants.
Town Planning
Architecture
Urban Design and Conservation