Monday 21 February 2011

Cowboy Builders - Protecting The Client

We've had quite a bit of debate on Linkedin regarding Cowboy Builders and what Architects and the industry can do to protect the Client.

What's your thoughts? Should we as architects be responsible for site inspection on EVERY project that goes through the warrant process?

Of course its extra money for our Clients but surely great peace of mind.

Please comment below.

Tuesday 1 February 2011

Why An Architect Is Essential to the Success of your Commecial Construction Project

Commercial construction is a term that encompasses building a commercial unit from the ground up or taking an existing building and altering it to suit the needs of a new tenant. Under either definition an architect is an essential professional to have onboard the project from the very beginning.

At Block Architects we have extensive knowledge and experience in the field of commercial construction and along with our excellent customer care record we are an asset to have by your side during any type of commercial construction.

Building a unit from the ground up allows more freedom in design and method of construction. At Block Architects we are able to help you decide on the layout, point out any areas that need attention and keep the design logical as well as advising on construction materials. If for example you want a green commercial construction there are a variety of methods we will employ to achieve this and going green will have an impact on where and what materials can be used.

Commercial Construction - Going Green
In green commercial construction, speaking with an architect before choosing a plot of land will help make your choice the best one for your project. When designing green buildings architects tend to take inspiration from the area surrounding the built for example an inner city site may use a type of concrete that is mixed for its heat transferring properties where a more suburban site may require more use of natural materials such as wood or stone.

At Block Architects we understand all these aspects of green design and we work within the environs of the project to deliver our clients vision as closely as possible.

You should also carefully consider accessibility not only for future clients of your business but for construction materials. If materials have to be transported a great distance it could be argued that you project is not as green as you may think.

Inside your commercial construction there are a variety of ways to make your building green. Recycling grey water (waste water from wash hand basins) and rain water harvesting to use to flush toilets will make an impact on the environment and your water bill. Using solar panels to provide electricity will also impact your bills positively and in these methods and more Block Architects are able to guide you to what is best for your project.

Commercial Construction - Renovate and Revive
If your commercial construction project is to renovate an existing building again engaging Block Architects from the very beginning could save you a lot of time and money. We know if that wall can be moved, whether an RSJ will be required and how many toilets you will need to install.

Block Architects can help you plan the layout so that it is as efficient as possible for you and your staff and as pleasant as possible for future clients. We can advise on whether you need a full rewire or just partial, whether the windows need replaced or can be refurbished and where safety features such as fires doors are required.

As with a green new build commercial construction, when renovating an existing building, the materials used should be in harmony with the surroundings but also with the existing parts of the building. For example if you have a sandstone building then any extensions should be in sandstone, if the building is of red brick construction, then use red brick etc. In this way the building will retain some of it character and still blend with its surrounds.

New build commercial construction and renovation of existing commercial property both need planning permission and once again you will find the services of Block Architects essential. We have spent time gaining a good working knowledge of the ins and outs of the local planning and building control office and the relationships we have cultivated within both these areas of planning will be worth their weight in gold.

So whether you are considering a complete new build commercial construction or a revamping of an existing building getting Block Architects on board right from the beginning will ensure the very best outcome for your project.

For further information contact us using our online form or telephone Glasgow 0141 278 3632, Edinburgh 0131 278 0445 or Hamilton 01698 422 358 and arrange your FREE Consultation. Alternatively you can get a get a quote by completing our online form.