Services
The process of designing and delivering a building project has several different phases each of which adapt architecture is able to assist with. The process can seem complicated and it can be confusing as to where your money is being spent. We advise anyone looking to carry out a substantial building project that they engage a reputable architectural practice for the whole process to ensure it's successful completion.
Initial Consultation
This consultation is to establish the brief of the proposal. We will aim to outline any site issues, planning restrictions and general feasibility of the proposal. Dependant on the complexity of the project, we provide estimated costs of the construction work, to establish if it will be within budget. From here, we prepare a formal quotation outling our full scope of services and associated fees.
Stage 1: Outline/Scheme Design
Following our successful appointment, we conduct a full survey of the property, gather any additional requirements and ideas and produce a number of outline options for you to review. To assist this process, we can produce a 3D computer model of the design.
Stage 2: Planning
Once you have agreed on a design, we produce a full set of drawings to submit to your local planning department. If the project is complex, or there are local planning considerations to be incorporated (e.g. conservation area), we may meet with the planning department to discuss the proposal in detail. This helps us identify any potential issues early on and rectify them prior to submitting plans. The planning decision typically takes 8 weeks from validation to approval being granted.
Stage 3: Building Control
Having obtained planning approval, we prepare detailed drawings to submit for Building Control approval. These ensure that designs comply with current building regulations in terms of structure, fire escapes, ventilation, sound proofing, access, stairs, etc... The building regs drawings are sufficient for a competent builder to complete the project and should be able to give you detailed quotation for the cost of works.
Stage 4 : Detailed Design and Specification
For larger projects, it can be extremely cost effective to have full set of details and specifications for the contractor to base their quotations. This often far exceeds the initial outlay, as it prevents disagreements on site in regards to the actual scope of works. Stage includes: Electrical/ lighting layouts, heating output calculations, door, window radiator schedules. Material specifications, pricing schedules and scope of works.
Stage 5: Contract administration
We offer contract administration to ensure standards of the specification and quality of workmanship are met, We also can offer full project management services. These are currently offered by one of our associate firms.
What We Do Best.
Architectural Design
" architecture is at the core of everything we do – our passion and expertise. at adapt architecture, our focus is always on the quality of the design and how well it responds to the needs and aspirations of each client. whether designing a new home, transforming an existing property or creating a carefully considered extension, we believe that good architecture should be both beautiful and practical. whilst we are passionate about contemporary design, we never lose sight of the importance of functionality, context and the way people use their spaces. our considered approach ensures that every aspect of a project has a purpose, from maximising natural light and improving spatial flow to incorporating practical storage, sustainable technologies and future-proofing wherever possible. based in farnham, surrey, we work across the surrounding areas, including guildford, woking and beyond, creating architecture that is ergonomic, economical and ecological. "
Heritage & Listed Buildings
respecting the past. designing for the future. historic buildings have a character, craftsmanship and architectural integrity that deserve to be understood and protected. at adapt architecture, we believe that sensitive architectural design can bring new life to historic properties while respecting the features that make them special. we work with the unique challenges and opportunities presented by listed buildings, period properties and homes within conservation areas. whether considering an extension, internal alterations, refurbishment or a more comprehensive restoration, our approach begins with understanding the building's history, significance and existing fabric. we carefully balance the requirements of heritage conservation with the practical demands of modern living, developing thoughtful design solutions that enhance a property's character without compromising its architectural integrity. from initial design advice and heritage considerations through to planning and listed building consent applications, we aim to make the process as clear and straightforward as possible. "
Passivhaus & Low Energy Design
creating beautiful homes that perform exceptionally well. at adapt architecture, we believe that great architecture should do more than look good. it should create comfortable, healthy and energy-efficient environments that perform exceptionally well throughout the year. we incorporate low-energy design principles from the earliest stages of a project, considering building orientation, insulation, airtightness, high-performance glazing, thermal bridging and ventilation to reduce energy demand without compromising architectural quality. we work closely with associate passivhaus designers and specialist consultants to incorporate the principles of high-performance, low-energy design into our projects. whether designing a new home to passivhaus principles, exploring retrofit opportunities or incorporating energy-efficient technologies into an existing property, our aim is to create homes that are comfortable, economical to run and environmentally responsible. "
Renovation & Transformation
unlocking the potential of existing buildings. sometimes the best solution isn't to move or build from scratch, but to rethink what you already have. at adapt architecture, we enjoy discovering the hidden potential within existing properties. whether it is a complete house renovation, a reconfiguration of internal spaces, a carefully designed extension or the transformation of a tired property into a contemporary home, we look at how thoughtful architecture can make a real difference. we consider how spaces connect, how natural light can be maximised, how circulation can be improved and how the building can work more effectively for the people who live in it. our approach combines creative design with practical thinking, making the most of the existing structure while introducing modern materials, technologies and sustainable solutions where appropriate. "
Interior Design
bringing concepts and ideas to life. our unified approach to delivering a project extends right through to the interior design. by working from the outside in and the inside out, we ensure that the architecture and interiors complement one another, creating spaces that feel cohesive, considered and beautifully resolved. we use colour, texture, materials and form to enhance the best architectural qualities of a building, combining traditional materials with contemporary elements to create expressive and individual interiors. we work with specialist designers, suppliers and craftspeople on behalf of our clients to develop the overall character and feel of each project. where required, we can also assist with the selection of interior finishes, including kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, ironmongery, lighting and colour schemes. our aim is to ensure that every interior is not only visually appealing but also practical, comfortable and perfectly suited to the people who use it. "
Sustainable Design
designing responsibly for a better future. sustainability is an important consideration in everything we do. at adapt architecture, we believe that thoughtful design can make a meaningful difference to the environmental impact of our buildings while creating healthier and more comfortable places to live. we take a considered approach to incorporating sustainable principles into our residential and mixed-use projects, looking beyond immediate energy savings to consider the entire lifecycle of a building. this includes the careful selection of sustainable and responsibly sourced materials, improving insulation and energy efficiency, reducing waste, maximising natural light and ventilation, and integrating renewable energy technologies where appropriate. we also consider opportunities for rainwater harvesting, water conservation and making better use of existing buildings and resources. our goal is to make sustainability an integral part of the design process, rather than an afterthought. "
3D VISUALISATION
adapt architecture can provide 3d imagery and photorealistic renders to help clients visualise how both the internal spaces and external appearance of a proposed design will look. these visualisations provide a clear understanding of the design, materials, proportions and spatial qualities of a property before construction begins. clients find this particularly useful when considering changes to the layout, exploring design options and understanding how a transformed space will look and feel. our aim is to make the design process as clear and accessible as possible, helping clients feel confident in the decisions they make. "