Services

The Hardwick Studio team is here to guide you through every stage of the architectural process – from the first conversation and early sketches to the final handover. We tailor our services to suit projects of all scales, combining creative vision with practical expertise at every stage.

Let us support you throughout your project journey!

Introduction and Design Brief

We begin every project with a comprehensive introduction and design-briefing process. This gives us a clear picture of your aspirations.

Together, we develop a brief that captures how you want to live or work in the space, preferred aesthetics, and practical requirements. We explore your property’s true potential, identifying opportunities to maximise light, space, character and value – building foundations for the design journey ahead.

Feasibility and Concept Design

Next, we establish what’s achievable for your project in terms of layout and budget. We produce initial sketch layout options that test different approaches, helping you visualise how the space could function. We also undertake a measured survey of the building and/or site.

Developed Design and Planning Submission

Once the concept is agreed, we produce clear planning drawings and liaise with relevant consultants: structural engineers, ecologists, drainage experts, etc. The team then prepares and submits the full planning application on your behalf, managing the process and answering questions from the planning authority.

Tendering

We begin the tendering process by helping you identify and vet suitable contractors. We then prepare a set of tender documents that include drawings, specifications and schedules. Once quotations are received, we review them carefully, helping you choose the right contractors for your project.

Technical Design and Specification

At this stage, we translate the design into the detailed information required for accurate pricing and high-quality construction. Alongside this, we produce specifications that document products, workmanship standards and construction methods.

Detailed Design and Building Regulations

To ensure your project complies with statutory requirements, we prepare detailed technical drawings at this stage. These drawings address structure, fire safety, energy performance, drainage, ventilation and more.

We submit them to the chosen building control provider and liaise with them throughout the approval process. The Hardwick Studio Architects team can also assist with appointing other consultants for compliance, such as structural engineers or drainage specialists.

Principal Designer Role

As Principal Designer, we take responsibility for planning, managing and monitoring health and safety during the pre-construction phase – a requirement under current CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations. We liaise closely with you and the principal contractor to make sure that responsibilities are understood.

Construction Phase

Acting under the building contract, we handle on-site queries as they arise. Regular site visits allow us to monitor the quality of construction, and identify potential issues early.

Contract Administration and On-Site Assistance

We support you to prepare the building contract, ensuring all parties understand their responsibilities. Throughout construction we carry out scheduled on-site inspections, issue contract instructions when needed, and manage payments.

Handover and In Use

Finally, the Hardwick Studio team make sure your project is handed over smoothly. We carry out a detailed handover process that includes the review and organisation of specialist documents, manuals and certificates. We issue the final certification under the contract and remain on hand after completion to support with settling-in queries.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Whether you have detailed plans or just an initial idea, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation conversation about what’s possible for your home.