How we Work

At Blueprint by BHD, our services are delivered in accordance with recognised professional practice and the principles set out by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). Our work is structured, proportionate, and aligned to the RIBA Plan of Work framework, adapted to suit the scale and complexity of residential and small-to-medium scale projects.

We provide services on a stage-by-stage basis, ensuring clarity of scope, responsibility, and deliverables at each point in the project lifecycle.

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Stage 0 – Strategic Definition

In accordance with CIAT good practice, we begin by establishing the strategic context for the project. This includes understanding the client’s objectives, constraints, budget expectations, programme, and statutory context.

We provide early professional advice on feasibility, planning strategy, key risks, and constraints, ensuring the project is properly framed before design work commences.

Typical services:

• Initial consultation and project appraisal

• Review of site context, constraints, and planning policy

• Advice on feasibility and planning strategy

• Definition of scope of services and project objectives

Typical deliverables:

• Outline project brief

• Strategic advice note (verbal or written)

• Agreed scope of services and fee proposal

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Stage 1 – Preparation & Brief

At this stage we develop the project brief in more detail and assemble the information required to proceed with design in a controlled and informed manner, in line with CIAT Practice Standards.

This may include reviewing existing information, commissioning or undertaking measured surveys, and confirming statutory and technical requirements.

Typical services:

• Development of the project brief

• Review or production of measured survey information

• Identification of statutory, technical, and site constraints

• Confirmation of approvals strategy

Typical deliverables:

• Confirmed project brief

• Site information / existing drawings

• Constraints and risk review

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Stage 2 – Concept Design

We prepare concept design proposals that respond to the agreed brief, site context, and regulatory constraints. This stage focuses on overall layout, form, spatial arrangement, and design principles.

Design development is undertaken in consultation with the client and in accordance with CIAT expectations for proportionate, well-reasoned design progression.

Typical services:

• Preparation of concept design options

• Client consultation and design refinement

• Initial assessment against planning policy and constraints

Typical deliverables:

• Concept design drawings

• Outline proposals suitable for client approval

• Agreed design direction for progression

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Stage 3 – Developed Design / Planning

The design is developed to a level suitable for submission for planning permission or permitted development / prior approval, as appropriate. We coordinate the preparation of drawings and supporting information and act as the client’s agent in the submission process.

This stage is delivered in line with CIAT requirements for clear, coordinated, and policy-compliant design information.

Typical services:

• Development of planning-level design information

• Preparation and coordination of supporting documentation

• Submission of application and liaison with the local planning authority

• Response to planning queries and minor amendments (where required)

Typical deliverables:

• Planning / prior approval drawings

• Supporting statements and documents

• Submitted application and correspondence records

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Stage 4 – Technical Design (Building Regulations)

Following planning approval (where required), we prepare technical design information suitable for Building Regulations approval and construction. This stage focuses on compliance, coordination, and buildability, in accordance with CIAT standards for technical competence and professional responsibility.

We coordinate with structural engineers and other specialists as required.

Typical services:

• Preparation of Building Regulations drawings and details

• Technical coordination with consultants

• Support through the Building Regulations approval process

Typical deliverables:

• Building Regulations drawing package

• Coordinated technical information

• Responses to technical approval queries

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Stage 5 – Construction Support (Proportionate Service)

Where appropriate, we provide ongoing support during construction, responding to technical queries and issuing design clarifications. The level of service at this stage is tailored to the scale, complexity, and risk profile of the project.

Typical services:

• Design clarifications and technical support

• Review of contractor queries

• Ongoing coordination support

Typical deliverables:

• Clarification sketches or notes

• Technical responses and advice records

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Professional Standards

All services are delivered in accordance with:

• CIAT Practice Standards and Code of Conduct

• Recognised standards of professional competence and integrity

• A structured, proportionate, and accountable approach to service delivery

Our objective is to provide clear, reliable, and technically robust professional services from strategic definition through to technical delivery and construction support.

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Example of Typical Fees for Architectural Design by Stage Structure

• Stage 0 – Strategic Definition: 5–10%

• Stage 1 – Preparation & Brief: 10–15%

• Stage 2 – Concept Design: 20–25%

• Stage 3 – Developed Design / Planning: 25–30%

• Stage 4 – Technical Design (Building Regs): 20–25%

• Stage 5 – Construction Support: 5–10% (if required)

(Not all projects will include every stage — services are appointed proportionately.)