How do I Start a Project in Real Life?

Just like learning to walk, first, we crawl, then lean on items, then take our first step and before we know it we are running. It’s just the same for starting your first architectural project, regardless of whether it is a roof extension or 1000 homes.

Understand the Client and the Brief

Ascertain what the client's objectives are and what they want to achieve, because this will form the basis of the design as it evolves.

This is also known as the ‘Strategic Brief’

Check to see what is allowed

Get onto the planning section of the local authority’s website to see if there are any policies that may affect the proposed development. The last thing you would want to do is design something that is not permitted

Tip:

If appointed, a planning consultant could assist with this task

Think about potential team players

Based on the nature of the project, consider what skills and services will be required for the project. This will inform which consultants and specialist expertise may be required.

Example:

If the brief is to design a playground with a school

You may require a landscape architect due to the detail required in the playground

What’s your role?

It is key to understand how you contribute to the overall framework of the project like a jigsaw puzzle. As an architect, there are various roles we can fulfil within a project

Examples:

• Lead Designer

• Project Lead

• Design Team Member

• Consultant to the client

• Coordinator

Please note, all of these roles have different contractual obligations

Money doesn’t grow on trees

Provide the client with what is known as a ‘Fee Proposal’, time is money.

This will enable you to give the client a quote based on their established requirements

Factors that influence the fee proposal;

• Resources

• Overheads

• Market Conditions

• Competition

• Hourly Rate

• Insurance

Be clear about your intentions

Send the client a letter of appointment, which is used to establish the start of works prior to the agreement of a formal contract. You should make clear within this letter that the terms are subject to a formal contract

This letter typically includes some of the following;

• Description of the project

• Scope of works

• The fee

• Start date of works

• Named sub-consultants

• Amount of indemnity insurance cover