Using a mixture of traditional surveying methods and the latest technology, our measured building surveys provide us with the ability to produce accurate and detailed drawings of existing buildings and structures. They cover the internal and external building features, including floor plans, cross sections (where applicable) and elevations. Drawings will then be produced in DWG format to assist with the redevelopments or extension of the property or used solely to record the existing built form.
If you are considering a development undertaking a Planning Feasibility Study is often an appropriate first step. Where necessary, we will visit you at your site to talk through the key issues and understand the brief, or alternatively we are happy to do so over Zoom or Teams meetings. We will then consider the next steps and how we can develop the proposal and working with trusted Planning Consultants we can even assess this against relevant planning policy, the planning history and case law before outlining your development options back to you. A Planning Feasibility Study is the first steps in framing a design and a key component towards developing the planning application, so if the outcome to the study is positive, an application can be progressed swiftly and cost-effectively.
When it comes to those big projects, its best to leave nothing to chance, especially when it comes to planning. This is where a pre-application (or ‘pre-app’) can come in handy. If you’re looking to design something a little ‘out of the box’, a pre-application is an informal way for us to explore your options and establish a relationship with your local planning authority. Pre-application allows you to explore creative or bold ideas and reduces the risk of official (and costly) rejection or for those eyeing up plots / sites for development, sale or properties to renovate, this is a great way of mapping out potential designs.
This is the first phase of the architectural design process. At this stage, we begin to describe architectural elements of the project design taking the scheme requirements and building on the feasibility concepts, translating this into architectural and spatial designs. We often explore many ideas in this phase in order to achieve the best possible design solutions.
We offer specialist advice on a full range of services from planning applications, works to listed buildings, works within the green belt, to permitted development. Plan5 will prepare your applications and always look to find solutions that bring your ideas to life. We also know that for every project, there’s a bigger picture beyond planning. We can act as Agent and in doing so we will monitor the application & guide you and your proposals through each stage of the planning process, giving complete honesty at all times. This way, you can be confident that you are informed throughout the process.
This is the initial and an important stage to the design development post planning. A design team is assembled to suit the project specifics and acting as Lead Designer, Plan5 will oversee the integration of key components to this process. External disciplines, not limited to the following services are integrated into the design; Structural Design, Mechanical / Electrical, Building Servicing, Landscape Design, & Interior Design. With this additional level of detail, we work with you to assess specifications and the overall design, it is an opportunity to fine tune components of the design even more to meet your objectives. Cost plans can be formed at this stage (by others) along with projected timescales for the build.
Building regulations set the construction standard for design and building work and apply to most new buildings and alterations to existing properties, both domestic and commercial. Plan5 can produce a full drawing and specification package for building regulations approval of your project. We can lodge the application preconstruction and work with the Building Control Consultant / Authority to discharge any conditions post submission, in doing so we will coordinate the design team to ensure their information is provided in a timely manner.
Construction tender documents include the drawings, specifications and documents which will be used to invite Contractors to bid on your project and identify the relevant timeframes to start and conclude the works. Working alongside the cost consultant (where applicable) Plan5 will assist in the review of the submitted prices and can assist in post submission negotiations with the Tendering parties. During the Tendering period we will be here on hand to assist in answering any Tender queries which can arise. Once a price is agreed and contracts in place, a period of mobilisation by the contractor commences before works progress on site.
Detailed Construction drawings form part of the overall documentation that is used for tender, for the contract between the employer and contractor, and for the construction itself. The construction detail provides a graphic representation of how the building will be built. They will be as clear as possible, and easy for the construction team to read. We aim to ensure that the drawings do not lead to any misunderstandings which could cause errors or delays. Construction drawings are usually accompanied by specification notes on drawings or if applicable a standalone document, specific to your project.
Once designs and plans are in place, a project is ready to enter the construction phase. Plan 5 can offer contract administration services and on site supervision that protects the client’s interest and ensures that the delivery of the project is in line with their priorities. This is a different service to Quantity Surveying and Cost management, services that we can arrange through trusted partner consultants.
As Principal Designer under the Building Regulations, Plan5 take responsibility for managing health, safety, and design risk throughout your project’s lifecycle. Our role ensures that all design work complies with current building regulations and that potential risks are identified, communicated, and controlled during both design and construction.
We coordinate with clients, contractors, and consultants to ensure that every aspect of the project meets regulatory standards and that duties under the Building Safety Act are fulfilled. By integrating compliance and safety considerations early in the design process, Plan5 help deliver projects that are safe, efficient, and fully aligned with legal requirements.
Our Architectural Interior Design services create stunning, functional and inspirational internal spaces. Well-designed interiors also contribute directly to the efficiency of a building, but most importantly how the space is enjoyed. From stunning bathroom, kitchen design through to bespoke cinemas, reception areas and bars, Plan5 will find a way to provide an inspiring solution for your space.
The ongoing management of any structure is key and Plan5 can provide you with ongoing piece of mind that the fabric of your building structure, surface, fixture or fitting associated internally or externally, is planned for. Through our Snagging Service we can oversee the handover and delivery of your works or visit your property to identify where works may be required in the short, medium and longer term.
We also offer a snagging service to New Build House owners, we can liaise with the house builder to ensure that works are identified, programmed and delivered to an acceptable level, standards that we would only ever accept in our own.
Having a fabulous garden is key to setting off any home, whether that be a private dwelling or a care home and at Plan5 we provide consultation & design to both the soft and hard landscaping aspects of your garden areas. If your garden needs a minor or full makeover, or if you are starting from a blank canvas, we can help you plan this, connecting both the internal and outside spaces in harmony.