Local Authority Planning Applications & Building Regulations/ Building Control Applications
"The only important thing about design is how it relates to people" - Victor Papanek
Planning and building control departments are under the charge of your local authority but are two separate entities.
To simplify things, the Planning Department is mainly concern with the density of local built environment, aesthetic of the propose development in context, provision of parking, access to light, overlooking, proximity to boundaries etc.
Building Control is concerned with making sure the building stands up, is accessible, water-tight, thermally efficient, etc.
This can cause confusion particularly as local authorities may have their own guide-lines and policies covering acceptable development and some small works are covered by PD (Permitted Development Rights) and don't require planning. Be aware that even if your proposal is covered by PD, it does not exclude it from Building Control.
Detail Design
"God is in the detail" - Mies van der Rohe
Architectural detailing can make a design distinctive and one-of-a-kind. The construction detail is as vital to the architectural process as exterior form-finding and interior configuration.
These details may be imperceptible to create clean, neat lines or pronounced and overt showing complex materiality. Detailing can turn a characterless space into a place with personality unique to the client.
Coordination between client, architect, builder & manufacturer is key when working up beautiful details which fit their location in both form & materiality.
If sustainability or even finance is an important driver, then non-standard material choice is essential and determining how to put these together will require detailing.
Physical Model Making, 3D Computer Aided Design & Visualisations
"Boundaries are actually the main factor in space, just as the present, another boundary, is the main factor in time" - Eduardo Chillida
The ability to convey an architectural design to the client is essential.
Plans, Sections and Elevations are required for detail design and submission to Building Control and your local Planning Department, however they can be abstract images which may be misunderstood.
Producing a three-dimensional model will allow the space to be fully comprehended by all and can be particularly beneficial for designs which include complex geometry.
Models are produced using a variety of media, from Plasticine or Fimo for concept design work; Grey-Board and Bolserwood for conventional medium scale pieces; Laser-cut and 3D printer for complex and highly detailed pieces; to CGI (computer generated models) showing photorealistic finishes and light studies.
Graphic Design for Print-Based Media, Web Design & Search Engine Optimisation
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" - Leonardo da Vinci
Creating an appropriate graphic style essential for developing a versatile identity, whether for personal or business purposes.
I believe in creating simple, grid-based designs which allow your content do the talking whilst helping accessibility and navigation.
Having an online presence allows the whole world see you and your work without the need to carry a portfolio around with you on a daily basis. Integrating live content into a static site gives you added flexibility to keep your clients up-to-date and keeping search engines happy.
SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is used to make your site 'visible' on the net and increasing visitor numbers to your site organically ultimately aiming to reach the first page of google's search results. There is no quick-fix here, however using appropriate strategies & techniques you will see your search engine ranking increase.
