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Design Approach

Design Ethos

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Our specific design approach is based around our ethos so throughout these processes there will be detailed analysis and design focused around the materiality and physical qualities of the site. In parallel we will take samples from the site to explore and experiment with to understand the possibilities of the materials. This information and instruction will be passed on to the contractors and craftsman and in some cases our own office will aid in manufacturing these components.

Client, Architect and Contractor Communication

At the start of the project our team will start consultancy meetings with the client to discuss the site and the client's vision. After several meeting with the client to discuss the materials and design process, the designs and plans will be given to the contractor. Site meetings will occur to check the progress of the build. Quality insurance checks will also take place to ensure that the build is of a high quality to guarantee client satisfaction. Once the build is complete, a handover takes place and the client takes the build. 

Awareness of Sustainability

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Alongside the environmental approach to sustainability Atelier Regolith are committed to creating sustainability within our community and wider audience. We feel the responsibility to educate and train the people around us and future generations about the impact each and every one of us can have to help this planet.

 

This year alone we will be:

Guest lecturing at Nottingham Trent University on the possibilities of raw materials.

Running a community research project to grow our understanding and benefit to renewable energy.

Attending classes at local schools to build knowledge of sustainability to the next generation.

Finally, we are running a virtual summit with stakeholders in Nottingham to encourage change NOW to a more sustainable future.

 

Along with the role of educating we aim to sympathise and accommodate the communities where we are developing, we want to understand the concerns and wishes of the community to adapt, and create architecture that is sympathetic to the geographical and cultural context.

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To read more about our sustainable materials, click below

Plan Of Work

As an RIBA chartered practice Atelier Regolith follows the RIBA plan of work. We use this as a basis to ensure we deliver a standard of high-quality design and service. Our main involvement is from stages 0-3, this includes, strategic definition, preparation and briefing, concept design, and spatial coordination, this is where the majority of designing is undertaken through constant review and reflection of the design with input from architect, client, site and regulations. From here we liaise with our contractors and consultants to ensure the design is feasible and still delivers on all aspects of the brief. Atelier Regolith will be with you from the first conversation through till after completion of the building.

A typical timeline is listed below but will be adapted dependent on the buildings specific needs and focuses.

 

  1. Work is seen on our website, social media, or in person, and approach us with an idea in mind.

  2. We arrange an initial meeting this will be over teleconference software or in person at our office. This will be an opportunity for us to get a better understanding of the aims, expectations, circumstances and styles of the project and for you to understand us. A positive and well-suited relationship will breed cohesive and strong architecture.

  3. Once a relationship has been established and an overview of the project has been understood we will start preliminary research of the site and project.

  4. We will develop the brief with you and all key parties, a budget will be set, architects fees will be established and all parties’ responsibilities will be highlighted and agreed.

  5. One of Atelier Regolith’s directors will attend the site to understand the aspects in person, here we will meet you to discuss the initial thoughts, ideas and impressions of the site.

  6. Specific site survey into materiality, this is where we understand the opportunities relating to the material types and quantities that are available to us on your site.

  7. Contact and connections will be established with local trades and craftsman, we aim to use skilled local trades as they will have the most inherit knowledge and experience with the materials and landscape than any other, this also aids in reducing the carbon footprint.

  8. Concept design phase this is where we find the basis to your design, what we wish to explore and achieve though the architecture.

  9. Initial designs will now be started and reviewed through a feedback loop, this will include architect, client, engineer, and planning advisor.

  10. Final design development and approval from all listed parties. In this stage we will design final detailing and review overall designs. Once the designs are finalised we will produce a comprehensive design package from any of the following:

Site proposal

General Arrangement plans and sections

Detail plans and sections

Working Drawings

Physical model

3D realistic visuals of architectural moments

  1. Design conformation and submission. Assess costings, structural and engineering feasibility, carbon footprint, lifecycle, spatial and architectural quality. Once these have been agreed the design will be submitted for planning permission.

  2. Once designs have been approved we will have submitted drawings to craftsman, contractors and consultants to start construction of details, components and overall project.

  3. Throughout the construction phase we will constantly review the design with you and our contractors to ensure the building is on track and meeting the proposal. There will be chance to review the design throughout this process.

  4. Following the RIBA plan of work we will work with our consultants and partners to keep up to date with all regulations and requirements to ensure everything we do is above acceptable standards.

  5. Once the design is complete we will be here to aid in anything we can and offer further collaboration for any additions.

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