Steele Associates

We offer a completely integrated service from concept design right through to handing you the keys on completion of construction.

The following stages define the design process:

Sketch Design

We work with you to establish a brief that meets all your needs, and perhaps some you haven’t considered yet. We then explore possibilities and options with you through models and drawings which develop ideas and spaces. This stage requires a delicate balance. Testing ideas prevents us settling on a solution before exploring the full range of possibilities. Cost awareness avoids a grand design that will blow the budget.

Design Development

Having researched council controls in sketch design, we go about refining and documenting the design to meet authorities’ requirements. This involves producing drawings, reports and other material that will present the scheme in a favourable light; then guiding the proposal through assessment. During this stage many of the major decisions are made such as door and window openings, heating and cooling systems, water management, and exterior materials & finishes.

Construction Documentation:

We work with an engineer to precisely resolve structural elements. We work with you to select and coordinate the elements that define the buildings character. We distil the essence of the design in the details. Each element, junction and corner must be considered to make sure it works - beautifully. We bring our impeccable construction knowledge to bear, so what we draw can be built efficiently for durability.

Contract Administration:

The architect conventionally oversees the construction process, acting as the conduit between client and builder. Most often, we work in a design & construct capacity where a separate administering architect isn’t required. However, we are able to provide contract administration serviced projects where a separate contractor is involved. This stage involves calling and assessing tenders (builders’ quotes) as well as helping you negotiate the contract. We then carefully monitor the build period, managing the paperwork to keep you in control. Strict quality control throughout ensures compliance with quality standards. At the close of this phase, your project is ready to occupy and all approvals are in place.