RIBA Stages: A Guide for Your Building Project

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If you’re embarking on a construction or renovation project, you may have come across the term RIBA Stages. Developed by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), these stages provide a structured framework that guides the design and construction process from initial planning to project completion. Understanding these stages is crucial for navigating your project effectively and ensuring every aspect is carefully considered.

What Are the RIBA Stages?

The RIBA Plan of Work consists of eight key stages, each outlining a specific phase of the building project. These stages ensure clarity and consistency, providing a roadmap for architects, clients, and contractors alike.

The 8 RIBA Stages:

  1. Stage 0: Strategic Definition
    • This stage focuses on understanding your project’s purpose and objectives. What do you want to achieve with your build? Is it a new home, an extension, or a commercial renovation? The strategic definition helps align your vision with practical goals.
  2. Stage 1: Preparation and Brief
    • The architect works closely with you to develop a detailed brief. This includes assessing the site, budget, and initial requirements. Feasibility studies or site surveys may also take place during this stage.
  3. Stage 2: Concept Design
    • Your architect begins to translate your ideas into initial designs. Sketches, floor plans, and 3D models might be produced to help you visualize the project. Key decisions, such as style and layout, are made here.
  4. Stage 3: Spatial Coordination (Previously Developed Design)
    • This is where the design is refined. The architect ensures all elements work together harmoniously, incorporating structural, mechanical, and electrical considerations. At this stage, planning permission may also be sought.
  5. Stage 4: Technical Design
    • Detailed technical drawings and specifications are created to guide construction. These documents are shared with contractors and used for pricing and procurement.
  6. Stage 5: Manufacturing and Construction
    • The physical construction begins. The architect may remain involved to ensure the work aligns with the design and meets quality standards.
  7. Stage 6: Handover
    • Once the construction is complete, the building is handed over to you. The architect ensures everything is functional and meets the original brief.
  8. Stage 7: Use
    • This final stage focuses on post-occupancy. The architect may assist with maintenance or help evaluate the building’s performance.

Why Follow the RIBA Stages?

The RIBA stages offer a clear, structured approach to building projects, ensuring no detail is overlooked. They help streamline communication between all parties, minimize risks, and keep the project on track.

Key benefits include:

  • Clarity: A well-defined plan reduces misunderstandings.
  • Efficiency: Proper preparation avoids costly delays or errors.
  • Quality Control: Regular oversight ensures high standards are met.

Why Work with Tholos Architects for Your RIBA-Stage Project?

At Tholos Architects, we pride ourselves on guiding clients seamlessly through every RIBA stage. With years of experience in residential and commercial projects, we ensure your vision is brought to life with precision and creativity.

Here’s How We Can Help:

  • Tailored Solutions: We work closely with you to understand your unique needs and aspirations.
  • Expert Guidance: From securing planning permissions to final handovers, we manage each stage with expertise.
  • Attention to Detail: Our team ensures every element of your project meets the highest standards of design and functionality.
  • Stress-Free Experience: We handle the complexities so you can focus on enjoying the results.

Common Projects We Specialize In:

  • New builds
  • Home extensions
  • Loft conversions
  • Interior redesigns
  • Commercial renovations

If you’re planning a building project and want expert support at every step, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer consultations to help you understand the process and explore your options.

Contact Us Today!

Ready to bring your dream project to life? Tholos Architects is here to help. Whether you’re just starting to think about your project or are ready to dive in, we’d love to discuss how we can assist.

📧 Email us or 📞 Call us to schedule a consultation.

Let’s make your vision a reality—one stage at a time!

Disclaimer: This article is part of a series created by our dynamic marketing team for informational purposes only. While we strive to review all content thoroughly, occasional oversights may occur, even after publication. Therefore, we cannot accept liability for any interpretations or use of the information provided. For the most up-to-date information or to report any discrepancies, please contact us at hello@tholos-architects.com.

Thinking about a Kitchen Extension? Here’s How to Get Started

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Are you dreaming of a more spacious, functional, and stylish kitchen? A kitchen extension could be the perfect solution to enhance your home’s layout and lifestyle. Whether you’re envisioning a sleek, open-plan cooking and dining area or a family-friendly hub, extending your kitchen can transform your space into the heart of your home.

But where do you begin? What steps are involved, and how can you ensure a seamless process? In this article, we’ll walk you through the key stages of planning a kitchen extension, highlight the benefits, and explain why involving an architect is a wise investment. Finally, we’ll share why Tholos Architects is the ideal partner to bring your vision to life.

Why Invest in a Kitchen Extension?

A kitchen extension isn’t just about adding square footage—it’s about enhancing how you live, entertain, and interact with your home. With modern lifestyles centring around the kitchen, it’s no wonder this type of renovation is one of the most popular home improvement projects.

Benefits of a Kitchen Extension

  1. Expand Your Living Space: Gain extra room for dining, entertaining, or even creating a multifunctional area with a snug or workspace.
  2. Increase Property Value: A thoughtfully designed kitchen extension can add significant value to your property, making it a smart financial move.
  3. Create a Modern Layout: Open-plan kitchens are highly desirable, offering a seamless flow between cooking, dining, and socialising spaces.
  4. Improve Natural Light: Extensions often incorporate features like bi-fold doors, skylights, or large windows, flooding the space with natural light.

Steps to Plan a Kitchen Extension

1. Define Your Goals

Begin by considering what you want to achieve with your extension. Ask yourself:

  • How do you use your kitchen currently, and what’s missing?
  • Do you want more space, better functionality, or an aesthetic upgrade?
  • What’s your budget?

2. Explore Design Options

There are several types of kitchen extensions to choose from:

  • Rear Extensions: Ideal for creating an open-plan kitchen that opens onto the garden.
  • Side Return Extensions: Perfect for making use of the often-underutilised space at the side of your house.
  • Wrap-Around Extensions: A combination of rear and side extensions for maximum space and flexibility.

An architect can help you explore these options, tailoring the design to suit your home and lifestyle.

3. Check Planning Permissions

Some kitchen extensions may fall under permitted development rights, but others require planning permission. Factors like the size of the extension, proximity to boundaries, and whether your property is listed or in a conservation area will determine this.

An architect will guide you through:

  • Understanding local planning regulations.
  • Preparing and submitting planning applications.
  • Ensuring the design complies with building regulations.

4. Finalise the Design

The design phase is where your ideas start to take shape. Working with an architect ensures a professional approach to layout, lighting, materials, and finishes, creating a space that’s both practical and visually stunning.

5. Construction and Compliance

Once the design is approved, construction begins. Key steps include:

  • Demolition (if required) and foundation work.
  • Building the extension structure.
  • Installing utilities like plumbing, gas, and electricity.

All work must meet Building Regulations, ensuring safety, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.

6. Interior Fit-Out and Finishing

Finally, the interior is brought to life with cabinetry, countertops, appliances, flooring, and decor. An architect’s expertise ensures a cohesive and stylish finish.

Why Involve an Architect in Your Kitchen Extension?

While it might be tempting to skip hiring an architect, their role is invaluable in ensuring a smooth and successful project.

The Advantages of Hiring an Architect

  • Creative Vision: Architects bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions, maximising the potential of your extension.
  • Tailored Designs: They’ll design a space that fits your home’s character and meets your family’s unique needs.
  • Project Coordination: Architects oversee the process, working with contractors and managing timelines to keep the project on track.
  • Regulatory Expertise: From planning permissions to building compliance, an architect ensures everything is done correctly and legally.

Why Choose Tholos Architects for Your Kitchen Extension?

At Tholos Architects, we believe a kitchen should be more than just a functional space—it should be a place of inspiration, connection, and joy. As one of London’s leading architectural firms, we’re passionate about delivering exceptional designs that elevate your home and lifestyle.

Here’s Why Homeowners Trust Tholos Architects

1. A Team of Visionaries

Our award-winning architects have a proven track record of creating innovative and practical designs. With Tholos, your kitchen extension will be as stunning as it is functional.

2. Personalised Approach

No two homes are the same, and we pride ourselves on crafting bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s vision, needs, and budget.

3. Hassle-Free Process

From concept to completion, we handle every detail of your project, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team coordinates with trusted contractors and oversees the build to guarantee exceptional results.

4. Emphasis on Sustainability

We prioritise eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs, helping you create a kitchen extension that’s as sustainable as it is stylish.

5. Transparent Pricing and Free Consultations

At Tholos Architects, we value honesty and clarity. Our pricing is upfront and transparent, with no hidden costs. We also offer a free consultation to discuss your project and provide expert advice.

Ready to Create Your Dream Kitchen?

A kitchen extension is a transformative investment in your home and lifestyle. With Tholos Architects by your side, you’ll benefit from expert guidance, creative designs, and flawless execution.

Contact Us Today

Let’s bring your vision to life! Email us at hello@tholos-architects.com, call us at 020 7846 6369.

Together, we’ll create a kitchen that’s not just an extension of your home—but an extension of your dreams.

Disclaimer: This article is part of a series created by our dynamic marketing team for informational purposes only. While we strive to review all content thoroughly, occasional oversights may occur, even after publication. Therefore, we cannot accept liability for any interpretations or use of the information provided. For the most up-to-date information or to report any discrepancies, please contact us at hello@tholos-architects.com.

Does my house need a good EPC rating? October 2024

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In 2024, significant updates to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements for homes in England are creating waves in the property market. By 2030, all rental properties will need to achieve at least an EPC rating of Band C, a substantial improvement over the current minimum of Band E. These changes are aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving the energy efficiency of homes, making them more cost-effective for tenants.

For different property types — whether it’s a semi-detached house, a terraced house, or a maisonette — and depending on the age of the property, upgrading to meet these standards can be costly, with estimates averaging £10,000 per property. Improvements such as better insulation, more energy-efficient windows, and the installation of renewable energy sources like air source heat pumps are becoming essential. Roof insulation, especially on pitched roofs, is also a popular and efficient method to boost EPC ratings, as it helps retain heat more effectively.

These updates are part of a broader government strategy to promote sustainable housing, but they pose financial challenges, especially for landlords who may need to upgrade multiple properties. Rising material costs due to inflation are compounding these concerns, and landlords may pass these expenses onto tenants through increased rents.

However, improving the Energy Performance of a property is a crucial step in future proofing, cutting energy bills and enhance the quality of life, other than being good for the planet.

So in the long term the costs will be outweighted by the benefits.

For homeowners and landlords alike, staying informed and proactively making energy efficiency improvements is key to avoiding future fines and ensuring properties also remain attractive to tenants and buyers.

How can I improve the EPC rating of my house?

Improving energy efficiency in a building is about optimizing the way it uses energy to minimize waste, lower utility costs, and reduce its environmental impact. This process involves upgrading various systems and materials in the building to ensure that less energy is required to maintain comfort, such as heating, cooling, and lighting.

Key areas of improvement include:

  1. Insulation: Proper insulation of walls, roofs, and floors helps reduce heat loss in the winter and keeps interiors cooler in the summer, significantly cutting down the energy required for heating and cooling.
  2. Efficient Heating Systems: Upgrading to energy-efficient boilers, heat pumps (like air source heat pumps), and smart thermostats ensures that buildings use less energy while maintaining comfort.
  3. Windows and Doors: Replacing single-glazed windows with double or triple-glazing prevents heat loss and improves thermal comfort.
  4. Lighting and Appliances: Using LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances reduces electricity consumption significantly.
  5. Renewable Energy: Installing solar panels or other renewable energy systems can lower reliance on grid energy and improve a building’s overall energy performance rating.

These improvements not only lead to reduced utility bills and carbon emissions but also increase property value and help comply with regulations like the UK’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) requirements.

If you’re looking to enhance your property’s energy efficiency and meet the latest EPC requirements, Tholos Architects can help.

Whether you’re renovating your house fully or just looking for better quality of living with specific improvements, such as upgrading insulation, installing air source heat pumps, or improving a pitched roof for better heat retention, our team has the expertise to guide you through every step required to complete these works without future regrets.

Reach out to us today, book your free consultation with an expert, drop us an email or write a message in the contact box.

Let’s improve the energy performance of your maisonette, semi-detached house, or terraced house while adding value and sustainability to your property.


P.S. We do not produce EPC Certificates ourselves.
We can only help you achieve a better score.

Ristrutturare casa in Inghilterra. Perché scegliere un Architetto Italiano a Londra è la mossa vincente

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Per tanti italiani che hanno deciso di stabilirsi nel Regno Unito (se ne contano circa 280.000), capire le sottili sfumature del mercato immobiliare britannico può sembrare un’impresa titanica. Acquistare una casa, specie in una città così vibrante e variegata come Londra, è una decisione di vita importante.
Quando si tratta di trasformare una casa nel perfetto rifugio dal trambusto della vita moderna, ecco che entra in gioco la figura dell’architetto.

L'intricato labirinto dell'acquisto immobiliare a Londra ed in Inghilterra

Comprare casa a Londra è un’avventura affascinante, ma non priva di sfide. Dalla ricerca dell’immobile perfetto su piattaforme come Zoopla o Rightmove alla comprensione delle differenze tra freehold e leasehold, ground rent e service charge, diritti e doveri, il processo può sembrare scoraggiante per chi non è del tutto familiare con le insidie del mercato immobiliare britannico. Ecco perché è cruciale avere al tuo fianco un partner esperto che ti guidi attraverso questo labirinto. Insieme ad un buon Solicitor specializzato in trattative immobiliari, è importante essere pronti ad avere un parere da chi ha familiarità con i sistemi costruttivi ed i requisiti tecnici normativi locali. Solitamente quando una offerta immobiliare viene accettata dal venditore, è buona prassi incaricare un RICS Surveyor per una ispezione approfondita dell’immobile, nota come Home Survey Level 2 che vi garantirà un report dettagliato sulle condizioni di cosa state per acquistare e conseguentemente di capire quali costi si nascondono per assicurarvi la manutenzione troppo spesso necessaria per proprietà più o meno trascurate negli anni. Ma la vera figura cruciale per poter capire quali sono i limiti dell’immobile è l’Architetto. Gli Architetti Italiani a Londra -e nel Regno Unito in generale- non solo condividono le tue esperienze culturali e parlano la tua lingua, ma sono anche professionisti qualificati esperti nell’individuare i sistemi costruttivi usati, i possibili rischi e implicazioni del apportare certe modifiche, ben consapevoli dei più recenti requisiti normativi, Building Regulations e costi di mercato. Con questa esperienza possono tradurre i tuoi sogni in realtà architettonica.

È necessario un Architetto per ristrutturare in Inghilterra?

Benché il processo per ristrutturare o trasformare una casa privata sia molto diverso da quello italiano, nel Regno Unito c’è un organo di controllo della sicurezza delle costruzioni, che si chiama appunto Building Control.

La maggior parte delle ristrutturazioni o quando si modifica una casa con un ampliamento (extension) o conversione della soffitta (loft conversion) necessitano un certificato di fine lavori rilasciato dal Building Control Body di pertinenza.

I requisiti necessari sono sempre più rigidi e riguardano isolamento termico e acustico, sicurezza strutturale e antincendio, ed altro ancora.

L’unica figura professionale che può seguire il tuo progetto dall’inizio alla fine tenendo a mente tutti i requisiti e la fattibilità realizzativa di un progetto, è proprio l’Architetto.

Per questo motivo quando si tratta di ristrutturare in Inghilterra, avere un Architetto al tuo fianco può fare la differenza tra un progetto mediocre pieno di compromessi -adottati per rimediare alla mancanza di una visione d’insieme- ed un progetto entusiasmante di cui andare orgogliosi e sentirsi veramente a casa.

Mettendo a disposizione creatività e visione d’insieme, conoscenza tecnica e normativa approfondita, contatti utili ed esperienza diretta di casi simili al tuo, l’Architetto si dimostra una figura cruciale per evitare che la tua dimora da sogno diventi piuttosto una casa da incubo.

Come posso scegliere l'Architetto giusto per il mio progetto?

Nel Regno Unito molti preferiscono scegliere un professionista sulla base di quanto sia vicino.

Sembra incredibile? Eppure la distanza è a tutt’oggi uno dei fattori più considerati nella scelta di un professionista, spesso considerato rassicurante se relativamente vicino sia per l’illusione di poter avere accesso più facilmente che per quella che abbia più familiarità con le micro-variazioni normative che un Council possa avere rispetto ad un altro.

Eppure i fattori discriminanti sono altri.

Ristrutturare casa sarà la cosa più finanziariamente rischiosa che farai per i prossimi 10 anni e la farai sul tuo bene più importante (a meno che non abbia altre case e tu stia valutando un investimento).

Per questo motivo quello che veramente conta sono:

  • la capacità di comunicare chiaramente con te e cono le altre figure che saranno coinvolte nel progetto;
  • l’esperienza pratica su numerosi altri progetti, più o meno simili;
  • la piena competenza tecnica sulle fasi costruttive;
  • la reperibilità e la capacità di trasmetterti sicurezza;
  • la garanzia di professionalismo, deontologia e assicurazione professionale.

Molto spesso si sentono proprietari di casa dire “il mio architetto non risponde mai“, oppure “hanno fatto il progetto ma non è veramente quello che volevo“. O ancora, “ho ottenuto il permesso ma per costruire ho dovuto cambiare tutti i dettagli e disegni perché chi ha fatto il planning non conosceva le building regs“.

Quando si tratta di trovare l’Architetto giusto per trasformare la tua casa a Londra o in UK in generale, Tholos Architects è una saggia scelta.

Specializzati in architettura e interior design residenziali, offriamo un servizio completo che va dalla progettazione alla supervisione dei lavori, garantendo che ogni dettaglio rifletta la tua visione e il tuo stile di vita e che un professionista qualificato sia sempre al tuo fianco.

Siamo una RIBA Chartered Practice, aderiamo al più severo codice deontologico nazionale. Seguiamo corsi di aggiornamento obbligatori e facoltativi regolarmente. Seguiamo le fasi di costruzione e sappiamo come proteggere gli interessi del cliente fino al completamento di progetto ed oltre.
Il nostro direttore ha lavorato su più di 200 planning applications dal 2018, tra Brighton e York. Trattiamo tutti i nostri clienti con la massima professionalità e garantiamo loro la massima privacy e discrezione.

Inoltre condividiamo la tua lingua e la tua cultura di origine. Questo significa che non solo capiamo appieno le tue esigenze, ma siamo in grado di comunicare efficacemente tanto con te che con altri professionisti, siano nel nostro network o meno, garantendo una collaborazione senza intoppi e risultati straordinari.

Con una vasta esperienza nella .
Dai concept iniziali alla scelta dei materiali e alla gestione dei fornitori, da Tholos Architects ci prendiamo cura di tutto.

Ristrutturare casa in stile moderno o eclettico a Londra, Kent, Cambridge, Northampton, Birmingham, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds o in una bucolica campagna inglese, può essere un’avventura fantastica, trasformando anche gli spazi più datati in ambienti lussuosi e confortevoli che rispecchiano il tuo stile di vita e le tue esigenze lasciandoti godere il risultato finale.

Forse ho capito, ma è tutto qui?

Ci sono moltissime informazioni sul nostro sito, anche se principalmente in Inglese perché i nostri clienti hanno provenienze molto diverse tra loro (e siamo uno studio di architettura in UK).

Ma non ci sono domande sciocche che non valga la pena chiederci direttamente.

La tua casa è una proprietà importantissima e scegliere di fare una extension o una ristrutturazione è una decisione cruciale.

Contattaci subito per una consulenza gratuita per parlare delle tue idee, in italiano!

Basta fare click su questo link per prenotare una chiamata secondo la tua disponibilità.

“Ho pensieri bellissimi che pesano come una lapide. Vi supplico, fatemi parlare.” – M. Monroe

Bousfield Road

by Residential Projects

Bousfield Road

YEAR: 2023
LPA: Lewisham
SCOPE: Renovation
CONTRACT: Domestic
STAGES: 1-6
BUDGET CAT.: £ 100-250 k

Our client wanted to transform their old and crammed kitchen, found after a dark dining room. We helped them turning it into a single efficient space with retro vibes, create a downstairs toilet and utility room, remaining within the existing footprint of the house.

Main contractor: London Construct
Photography: Riccardo Fabrizio

Bousfield Road

YEAR: 2023
LPA: Lewisham
SCOPE: Renovation
CONTRACT: Domestic
STAGES: 1-6
BUDGET CAT.: £ 100-250 k

Our client wanted to transform their old and crammed kitchen, found after a dark dining room. We helped them turning it into a single efficient space with retro vibes, create a downstairs toilet and utility room, remaining within the existing footprint of the house.

Main contractor: London Construct
Photography: Riccardo Fabrizio

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Oval Road

by Residential Projects

Oval Road

YEAR: 2023
LPA: Croydon
SCOPE: Bathroom renovation
CONTRACT: Domestic
STAGES: 1-6
BUDGET CAT.: £ 10-50 k

Tired of a small dull bathroom and a poorly functional spare room, for our client we proposed to merge the spaces resulting in a comfortable, bright, colorful and whimsical bathroom that introduced a new ritual of wellness in the dynamics of this hip family.

Main contractor: London Construct
Photography: Riccardo Fabrizio

Oval Road

YEAR: 2023
LPA: Croydon
SCOPE: Bathroom renovation
CONTRACT: Domestic
STAGES: 1-6
BUDGET CAT.: £ 10-50 k

Tired of a small dull bathroom and a poorly functional spare room, for our client we proposed to merge the spaces resulting in a comfortable, bright, colorful and whimsical bathroom that introduced a new ritual of wellness in the dynamics of this hip family.

Main contractor: London Construct
Photography: Riccardo Fabrizio
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