Deniz Heeremans Architects

Deniz Heeremans Architects specialise in the design of residential architecture in London and surrounding areas. We are proud to combine over 20 years of experience with a personal and collaborative approach to each project, listening to our clients' needs and paying attention to detail at every stage. Our process is outlined below, ensuring that every project is tailored to meet the unique requirements of our clients.

Our Process

The process required for each project varies, and these will be discussed at our first meeting. From feasibility study to building contract management, please find below the range of services that DHA offers:

• Stage 0: Feasibility Study - To assess the practicality of a proposal for conversions or new build projects.
• Stage 1: Design - Once a measured survey has been carried out, DHA will prepare design options to suit your brief and present these drawings to you during a design meeting.
• Stage 2: Planning Applications - When the design has been finalised, DHA will advise on the type of statutory application; whether the proposal may be by built under permitted development with a lawful development certificate, prior notification or if a full planning application is required. Each planning application takes 8 weeks for the Council to make a decision.
• Stage 3: Building Control Submissions - Once planning permission has been granted or straight after the design stage if planning is not required, DHA will co-ordinate the design with a structural engineer to prepare technical drawings for Building Control. Sometimes it is necessary to liaise with other consultants and DHA will advise on this eg. if there are increased areas of glazing, energy reports may need to be submitted with the Building Control application. There are 2 ways of applying for building control depending on size of project, complexity and programme. The first is a full plans application that usually takes 8 weeks to gain conditional approval. The second is to start on site with a Building Notice within 48hrs of informing the Building Inspector of your intention to start works on site. This is only advisable for smaller projects where there are no complex Building Control issues.
• Stage 4: Tender - Where a project requires more control over bespoke design details, a further set of detail drawings and specification are advised to be prepared for tender. These will be issued usually to a list of three of your preferred builders with either an RIBA Domestic Form of Building Contract or a JCT Minor Works Contract for their tender prices to be returned prior to making a decision of acceptance.
• Stage 5: Building Contract Administration - DHA is able to administer the building contract between the employer and builder during construction works, checking works are broadly in line with the contract drawings and issuing payment certificates in accordance with the progress of works on site.