mark
alford
design
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO
Mark Alford Design is an architectural design studio that offers a wide range of services for clients in all building sectors, specialising particularly in residential design and improvement.
We pride ourselves in offering high quality commissions in a broad range and scale of projects, from small home improvements to complex multi unit developments.
Within our projects, we want to inspire our clients to explore possibilities that will create great spaces within their homes and work environment, so they can live in an enriched way.
SERVICES
CONCEPT DESIGN
AND PLANNING
CONTRACTS
AND SITE
EXTERNAL PARTNERS
Topograhical Survey | Structural Design | Energy Calculations | 3D Visuals | Landscapes
Feasibility Design
Site Appraisals and Surveys
Pre-Application Advice
Permitted Development
Outline Planning
Full and Householder
Planning Applications
Appeals
BUILDING REGS
AND TENDER
Technical Working Drawings
Detailed Specifications
Planning Conditions
Electrical Layouts
Building Control liasons
Full Plans and Building Notice
Applications
Tender and Appointments
Tender Analysis
Contract Adminstration
Site Inspections
Interim Certificates
Snagging Inspections
Final Certificates
Completions
PORTFOLIO
OUR LATEST WORK. SEE MORE >
GUIDANCE
DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?
Most building projects require some sort of Planning approval - even if the scheme appears small or wouldnt really affect anybody. The exception is if the proposals fall under your Permitted Development rights which most properties benefit from.
To find out more, please visit the Planning Portal or contact us for further guidance
WHAT ARE BUILDING REGULATIONS?
Completely separate from Planning permission, the Building Regulations are a set of Approved Documents that give guidance on how to achieve a compliant design that will be signed off by a Building Inspector at the end of the building works. In nearly all cases, building regulation sign off is needed during construction, although there are some exemptions on applying.
To find out more, visit the LABC website or contact us for further guidance
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN APPROVAL?
Normally, a planning application takes about 8 weeks to be determined following validation, but can sometimes take up to 13 weeks if a more complex application. The timescales can be longer if the application goes in front of a Planning Committee for a decision.
A Building Regulations application will take a maximum of 8 weeks for a decision, but is likely to be sooner - usually around 5-6 weeks.
WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO CHOOSE A BUILDER?
There are many horror stories around about bad builders, but the reality is that most are legitimate and professional. Word of mouth and a proven track record are the best things to have to hand when deciding on your builder, so don't be afraid to ask for references and to go and see previous work. Also, you can use one of the established online service web sites to locate your local builder (like Checkatrade) - most require good references and track records before they publish builder details.
We have a core group of local builders that regularly work on our projects and would be happy to provide contact details if required. We can also assist with the selection of a builder as part of our tender stage.
ARCHITECTURAL FEES EXPLAINED
Fee’s quoted will always be calculated against the expected size and value of the project. We can offer 3 different types of fees depending on the type of project.
Fixed Fee - simple projects, smaller in size with a clear design brief available at the time of quoting.
Percentage Fee - more complex projects of a larger nature where the design needs developing into a clear brief.
Time Charge - a flexible fee based on an agreed hourly rate, offered early in the design stage for feasibility work and when small packages of design work are required. Also commonly used during construction when monitoring the works.
CONTACT
Mark Alford Design Limted
The Studio
Heatherlands
Bracken Lane
Storrington
West Sussex
RH20 3HS
Tel: 01903 740033
