The Exciting Conceptual Design Stage

Hi everyone 👋,

📝 The Main Bit

Level 2 – Concept Design Process

Now it is time for the fun stuff! Now that the Client Requirements and the Project Brief have been created, the Design Team can get to work to create conceptual drawings. This is the first time that the possibilities of the site are imagined externally as part of the Architectural Concept.

What is an Architectural Concept?

An architectural concept typically addresses several key aspects:

Design Philosophy: The concept embodies the overarching design philosophy that drives the project. This could involve principles such as sustainability, contextual integration, modernism, minimalism, or any other design approach proposed in the Client Requirements.
Contextual Response: The concept considers the site’s physical, cultural, and historical context. It aims to create a harmonious relationship between the new development and its surroundings incorporating any Conservation requirements outlined in Stage 1 of the RIBA Plan of Work.
Functional Goals: The concept outlines how the building or space will function, addressing aspects such as spatial organisation, circulation, and the intended use of different areas.
Spatial Requirements: It defines the arrangement of spaces, volumes, and circulation routes within the building. This could involve decisions about open spaces, private areas, connections between different zones, and so on.
Aesthetic Expression: The concept establishes the visual language of the design, including the use of materials, colours, forms, and textures. It sets the tone for the project’s overall appearance and style.
Symbolism and Meaning: In some cases, the concept might incorporate symbolic or cultural elements that add deeper layers of meaning to the design.
Innovation and Creativity: An architectural concept often encourages innovative and creative solutions to design challenges, pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking.
User Experience: The concept considers how occupants or users will interact with the space, aiming to create a positive and functional experience.
Sustainability: Concepts increasingly consider environmental sustainability, incorporating strategies to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and enhance the overall environmental performance of the building.
Adaptability and Future Use: Depending on the project, the concept might also consider how the building can adapt to changing needs and uses over time.

There is an opportunity for Project Brief Derogations to be agreed in areas where meeting the previously agreed Project Brief may be difficult, impossible or not in the best interest of the concept.

It is recommended through the process of creating the Architectural Concept that local planning authorities provide feedback so that changes can be made where necessary through Pre-Application Planning Advice.

What is Pre-Application Planning Advice?

Pre-application planning advice is a service provided by local planning authorities to help individuals, developers, and organizations understand the planning requirements and constraints related to a potential development project before formally submitting a planning application. This advice is designed to facilitate a smoother planning process by allowing applicants to gather feedback, understand potential issues, and make necessary adjustments to their proposals before submitting an official application.

Here’s how the pre-application planning advice process generally works:

Initial Inquiry: The applicant or their agent contacts the local planning authority with details about the proposed development project. This could be for a new building, an extension, a change of use, or any other type of development – even multi-property developments.
Submission of Information: The applicant provides relevant details, such as site plans, drawings, and a description of the project. The level of detail required may vary based on the complexity of the proposal.

Review and Feedback: The planning authority reviews the provided information and provides feedback on various aspects of the proposal. This can include comments on design, land use, impact on neighbours, environmental concerns, transportation access, and more.
Guidance and Advice: The local planning authority offers advice on how to improve the proposal to align with local planning policies and regulations. They might suggest modifications that could make the proposal more likely to gain approval.
Constraints and Requirements: The planning authority informs the applicant about any specific constraints or requirements that need to be addressed, such as environmental impact assessments, heritage considerations, infrastructure upgrades, etc. This can identify the need for specialist input that can impact the Design Team.
Clarification and Discussion: The applicant can ask questions, seek clarifications, and engage in discussions with the planning authority to better understand the feedback and suggestions.
Optional Meetings: In some cases, face-to-face meetings or virtual discussions might be arranged to discuss the proposal in more detail and address any concerns.
Outcome Report: The local planning authority typically provides a written report summarizing the discussions, feedback, and recommendations. This report can be valuable for the applicant to refer to when preparing the formal planning application. There is no guarantee that it will improve the speed of the process of application itself, but it should increase the chances of a successful application.

It’s important to note that pre-application advice is not mandatory, but it can benefit applicants by helping them understand the potential challenges and opportunities associated with their development project. It can save time and money by allowing applicants to refine their proposals before submitting a formal planning application, which can often be a lengthy and costly process.

Each local planning authority has its own process, fees, and guidelines for providing pre-application planning advice, so it’s advisable to contact the specific authority in the area where the development is proposed to get accurate and up-to-date information. For instance, Somerset Council in the South-West of England has nine levels of pre-application advice available, dependant on the size, type, and complexity of the proposal. While Wiltshire Council directly east of Somerset offers six levels of pre-application advice.

It is optional at this stage to submit an Outline Planning Application.

Architectural concepts are typically presented through various means, including sketches, drawings, diagrams, renderings, and written descriptions. These representations help convey the core ideas to stakeholders, clients, and design team members, and they serve as a starting point for further development and refinement throughout the design process.

Ultimately, the strength and clarity of the architectural concept play a crucial role in guiding the design team and ensuring that the final built form effectively captures the original design intent.

Everything discussed and decided upon through this stage should be captured in a Stage Report that is then signed off by the Client ready for Stage 3 – Spatial Coordination to begin.

At this point it will feel as if the project is beginning to come alive and the excitement of the new property will begin to grow.

Join us again for our next post which discusses the Stage 3 Spatial Coordination. Subscribe now to get it straight to your inbox!

🕵️‍♂️ Property Glossary

I share definitions each week of words and terms that pop up now and then in the property world and can be confusing.

Electrical Installation Condition Report

Assesses the electrical systems and installations in a property. It identifies any defects or potential hazards and provides recommendations for remedial action. It is required by law for landlords to obtain this certificate every five years.

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