Great architecture doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of a structured, collaborative process. If you’re planning a building project in Hexham or the wider Northumberland area, understanding how the design process works can help you feel more informed, confident, and involved.
At Crawford Higgins, we believe in demystifying architecture. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key design stages you’ll go through when working with an architect in Hexham—from first meeting to final sign-off.
1. Initial Consultation
Every project begins with a conversation. During the initial consultation, we take time to understand your:
- Project goals and vision
- Lifestyle needs and priorities
- Budget and preferred timeline
- Site conditions and planning context
This first meeting sets the tone for the project and helps us determine the right design strategy for you.
2. Measured Survey and Site Analysis
Before design begins, we’ll usually carry out a measured survey of your home or site. This provides accurate base plans and reveals any constraints, such as:
- Boundary positions
- Sun orientation
- Topography or access issues
- Heritage or planning restrictions
This data becomes the foundation of all design work to follow.
3. Concept Design
This is where your ideas start taking shape. We explore one or more design options through:
- Sketches and digital drawings
- 3D models or massing studies
- Material palettes and layout ideas
During this phase, we’ll collaborate closely with you—refining ideas, testing layouts, and ensuring the design reflects your lifestyle and tastes.
4. Developed Design and Planning
Once a concept is agreed, we’ll develop it into a more detailed proposal that’s ready for submission to the local authority. This stage includes:
- Scalable drawings of plans, elevations, and sections
- Design and access statements
- Heritage impact assessments if applicable
We’ll manage the entire planning application process—liaising with Northumberland County Council and responding to any queries or feedback.
5. Technical Design and Building Regulations
After planning approval, we develop a set of construction drawings and specifications. These include:
- Wall, floor, and roof build-ups
- Window and door schedules
- Energy and ventilation strategies
- Structural coordination with engineers
This stage ensures the project meets UK Building Regulations and is fully ready for pricing and construction.
6. Tendering and Contractor Selection
If you haven’t chosen a contractor yet, we can manage a competitive tendering process, which includes:
- Preparing a detailed tender package
- Evaluating contractor quotes and timelines
- Advising on contracts, insurance, and procurement options
Our aim is to match your project with a builder who delivers quality and value.
7. Construction and Site Oversight
During the build, we offer contract administration services, including:
- Regular site inspections and quality checks
- Issuing instructions or revisions where needed
- Certifying payments and monitoring progress
This involvement helps ensure the design intent is respected—and any issues are addressed swiftly and professionally.
8. Completion and Handover
Once construction is complete, we’ll support you through the final handover by:
- Inspecting the finished work
- Preparing a snagging list for the builder to address
- Issuing practical completion certification
You’ll also receive a full set of drawings and documentation for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to go through every design stage?
Not always. We tailor our services to your needs—some clients engage us just for planning drawings, others for full project management.
Q: How long does the design process take?
From initial consultation to planning approval, it usually takes 2–4 months, depending on complexity. We’ll provide a clear timeline at the outset.
Q: Can I make changes during construction?
Yes, but changes after the technical design stage can affect budget and programme. We help manage revisions as smoothly as possible.
Final Thoughts
Working with a Hexham-based architect ensures your project benefits from local knowledge, personal service, and a strong understanding of Northumberland’s planning landscape. The design process is about more than drawings—it’s about collaboration, problem-solving, and creating something lasting.
At Crawford Higgins, we bring structure and creativity to every stage of the journey. If you’re ready to start your project, let’s talk.
