Roof Terrace Projects
Roof Terrace Projects
Shape Architecture has a strong reputation for successful roof terrace projects in Brighton and throughout London. Our first roof terrace was some 15 years ago for an upper floor flat overlooking Clapham Junction station and we are about to start on site with a large roof terrace in a conservation area in Brighton. We always have several roof terrace projects in the practice at various stages of the process. The success of our roof terrace projects is based on the diversity of our portfolio both in terms of roof terrace size, type, location and importantly the experience gained in respect of the planning process.
Roof Terrace Design: The Process
The process typically starts with a prospective client calling or emailing our office. We are happy to chat on the phone and then arrange a day and time when a Director can visit the property and discuss the options and process more fully. Following our visit we will write a services and fees proposal which will be emailed to the prospective client. The letter will clearly set out our services and associated fees. Our fees are a fixed lump sum and then divided into a series of activities, survey, planning, technical design etc. This gives our clients cost certainty and flexibility.Once appointed, members of staff will visit the property and carry out a dimensional survey from which we will prepare survey plans, elevations and sections as a basis for all follow on work and as required by the planning authority. We also create a 3D computer model which will then evolve as the design develops. This will be the clearest way to communicate with our clients.A measured survey brochure will then be issued and we will commence the design proposals phase. Working to our clients brief we will draw up a number of proposals both in 2D and 3D. We will issue a proposals brochure to our clients and once they have had the time to review this we will visit and discuss which options are preferred.We may at this point decide to pursue a Pre App process with the planning authority, whereby several options are submitted to the planners who then provide valuable feedback prior to a full application being submitted. The pre app process normally takes around three weeks. It is valuable as there are sensitivities to roof terraces around issues if overlooking, extent and nature of balustrading.Once planning approval has been granted then we commence the detailed technical design of the roof terrace and this considers aspects such as access, waterproofing and insulation to the terrace and support and fixing of pthe balustrade. A structural engineer may be required to provide some assistance. Once all drawn we will then write the schedule of works which is the pricing document and with that prepared we will go out to tender to three or four contractors we know and have established relationships with.Running in parallel to these activities are the building regulations application which we will co-ordinate and also the party wall process. We can recommend party wall surveyors with whom we have longstanding relationships.With tenders returned we will assist our client in the selection of the successful Contractor. We will then put the building contract in place. The contractor will start works and we will visit on a regular basis to assist in the process.The above represents a full service. It may be that the client feels they do not need our input on site or else they simply want us to gain planning permission only. We are happy to tailor our services to suit. If you are considering a roof terrace project please feel free to contact us.
Link to Florin Court Roof Terrace: https://www.shapearchitecture.co.uk/project/florin-court/
Link to Adam and Eve Mews: https://www.shapearchitecture.co.uk/project/adam-and-eve-mews/
