We offer the full range of architectural services from design to delivery and provide a personal, professional and flexible approach. we are passionate about our work and love what we do.
The architectural services we offer cover: feasibility studies; design sketches; planning application drawings and documents; contract and construction management and building regulation compliance. We also offer a full commercial interior design service.
We see every project as an exciting new venture, from getting to grips with the constraints of a particular brand; working in challenging buildings; overcoming diverse geographical settings and maximizing commercial potential. Our work covers a broad range of sectors:
Our Services
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Architecture
The environment we occupy has a significant impact on our mood and how we live. That is why we collaborate closely with our clients to design spaces they are happy to call their own. We create buildings that are functional, beautiful, environmentally friendly and enjoyable to occupy. We make full use of 3D modelling to express our design ideas and adopt an integrated approach to design.
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Commercial Interior Design
Our holistic approach to design ensures that no element is overlooked.. As a result, many of our projects have involved both architecture and interior design. This provides a unified, high-quality finish, in which each aspect has been carefully researched and planned. Throughout the design process, we work closely with our clients to ensure the finished space meets their needs , whilst reflecting their own personal style and taste.
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Project Management
As Architectural Project Managers we have extensive experience in overseeing projects from feasibility and planning to delivering finished projects on any scale across all sectors. We can maintain the integrity of the design, ensure complete compliance with current regulations and sustainability requirements, and ensure that projects are conceived and produced on time and to budget.
Our Sustainability Pledge
We use our professional knowledge of sustainable technologies and construction methods to advise our clients on the most ecologically responsible options for their projects. We employ a fabric-first approach, ensuring that the structures we design are well-insulated, airtight, well-ventilated and maximise passive solar heating. Many of our projects use renewable energy technology and we can help determine if they are right for individual projects. We'll conduct a sustainability assessment to help actively improve the quality of the building, while minimising its environmental impact.
C.A.Ross Associates are proud to be an RIBA practice. This means the RIBA Plan of Work and RIBA Work Stages are central to how we go about our business.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work, which is divided into a number of important project stages, provides a standard framework for the briefing, design, construction, handover and use of a building. It serves as both a process map and a management tool. Throughout its history, the Plan of Work has developed to reflect the rising complexity of projects. It accommodates changing regulatory requirements and industry needs, as well as government studies relevant to the industry. The most recent edition, released in 2020, emphasises the growing importance of sustainability and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
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0. Strategic Definition
The first stage establishes a loose project brief and describes the project's defining criteria, personal priorities, and design ambition.
This stage is frequently pre-appointment, allowing the client to obtain a sense of our capabilities by evaluating our work history and portfolio and sets the tone for the project.
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1 . Preparation & Briefing
Feasibility studies, site/building surveys, and an initial risk assessment are usually included at this stage. We can also provide a cost estimate and a procurement plan.
Early pre-application involvement with the local authority can aid in the design process and boost support for planning applications.
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2. Concept Design
This is the stage at which we produce the first visualisations or drawings of the design, developed from the project brief. We can then discuss alterations of the concept design.
We often include initial proposals for structural design, building services and specifications, which can be used for cost Information.
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3. Spatial Co-ordination
This is where a co-ordinated design begins to take shape, developed with structural design and building services clearly drawn in CAD.
We then prepare a detailed planning submission which, along with drawings, can include a Design and Access Statement or a Listed Building permit application, as required.
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4. Technical Design
This is the process of refining the design and creating relevant drawings and documentation for Building Control and tendering purposes.
It frequently entails contacting appropriate specialised subcontractors. Depending on the kind of procurement and the nature of the project, the level of detail required may vary.
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5. Manufacturing & Construction
At the start of the construction stage, the design is usually deemed complete. Our role will change, but we will field design queries.
Construction effectively means the main contractor will take control of the site and complete the tasks outlined in the Schedule of Work and the construction contract.
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6. Handover & Inspection
This stage completes the building contract, including rectifying flaws and issuing the final certificate. Commissioning may be required.
We may assist with snagging, while acting as contract administrator, but it is the contractor's duty to ensure the works comply with drawings, specifications, and contract agreements.
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7. In Use
This stage is an aftercare service, including requests for as-built drawings, conversations about future adjustments and additional work.
We are always pleased to advise the client on effective building operation in accordance with the sustainability plan. Monitoring energy performance is also crucial.
