Preparation and Brief

Following our conversations and desktop studies, we develop our preferred proposal. We may then share this proposed design for ‘pre-application advice’ from the local authority at the end of RIBA Stage 1. Massive Architecture are collaborative in our approach, we can bring together the specialist input as required for the project.

By the end of RIBA Stage 2 we've experimented and tested different layouts, forms and materials. We shall produce a Stage 2 report which captures key design decisions taken so far and any evolving requirements which have developed through consultant input. This is a really fun and exciting stage, it often captures the imagination of everyone involved and the outputs help to drive a project forward towards planning submission.

We will refine the design using hand-drawings, digital models, and physical model-making. Once Stage 3 is complete, we will submit a complete planning application. Once planning permission is granted, any further changes to the design may require a new application. We will include drawings, perspectives, models, and visualisations in the planning submission to reaffirm that the design has been carefully considered. We will coordinate the design team and submit the planning application on your behalf at the end of the stage. We will stay in contact with the case officer during the review period to ensure they have all necessary information.

During RIBA Stage 4, we will continue to develop the design by determining materials, specifications and details. We will also create a technical design pack, providing any necessary drawings for further planning approvals as required, and coordinate input from all consultants and the design team to ensure comprehensive design solutions are reached. We take care to ensure all the objectives set out in earlier stages have not been forgotten and are articulated in the technical design pack. Drawings will also be submitted to Building Control for full or conditional approval. We will use the Stage 4 design pack and physical material samples to convey the overall appearance and character of the internal and external spaces. Our projects are typically procured through a competitive tender process, where potential contractors provide cost estimates for the design. We will meet with the preferred contractor to help finalise the building contract.

During the construction stage, we can adjust the level of involvement to meet the specific needs of your project. Our services include the creation of construction drawings and can include contract administration as required. We will also conduct regular site visits to ensure the work is progressing smoothly and help address any issues that may arise. The construction stage includes all aspects, from excavation for foundations, to the final stages of interior decoration and completion. During our site visits, we will inspect the work being done to ensure it aligns with the issued drawings and specifications, and provide any additional information necessary to maintain progress on site.

After the construction stage is completed, we will allow for a period of time for inspection of the finished building for any defects, attend meetings with all parties involved in the contract and supply information as required to fulfil any outstanding planning conditions. As it is common for changes to be made during construction, we will provide you with a set of final construction issue drawings if necessary, for your records.

RIBA Stage 7 services evaluate a building's performance while in use. Through post occupancy evaluations, it is possible to analyse data collected over a set period of time to assess the internal environment and optimise systems for improved efficiency and comfort. We also take time to understand how you use the space, offer our recommendations and seek feedback from all stakeholders on how we can improve the design process.

We use Stage 0 to explore and test ideas, we normally begin with a site visit, a good conversation and some feasibility sketches. We get to know what you like, the nature of the site and how best to move the project to the next stage. We add a huge amount of value at the outset of a project. Sketch drawings can unlock the potential of a site, help attract funding, draw out feedback from planners and ultimately guide the entire direction of a project.