We offer a full-service approach, guiding you through every stage of your project - from the first conversation to handing over the keys to your completed building.
Our work spans a wide range of buildings, locations, and styles, but one principle remains constant:
thoughtful design adds value and improves the way people live. Whether you're building or extending a family home, refurbishing a period property, or reimagining a space entirely, we tailor our involvement to suit your needs, budget, and ambitions.
Stage 1 | Briefing & Surveys
Every project begins with understanding - your aspirations, the building, and its context. This stage establishes a clear brief and identifies opportunities and constraints early, ensuring a solid foundation for the design process.
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Initial consultation to discuss your brief and provide early professional advice on design, planning considerations, statutory requirements, construction, and anticipated costs.
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Feasibility studies.
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Measured surveys.
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Coordination of specialist site survey information.
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Coordination of early-stage consultant advice.
Stage 2 | Concept & Design Development
Initial design thinking takes shape here, with options developed and tested against the brief. More complex schemes or sensitive settings may require detailed analysis and specialist input, potentially leading to a planning pre-application. Smaller projects typically involve a series of layout options to explore possibilities.
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Concept design development and layout options.
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Planning pre-application design.
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Cost reviews and early budgetary advice (in collaboration with a cost consultant).
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Coordination with other consultants and specialist advisors.
Stage 3 | Planning
The primary aim at this stage is to prepare and submit a planning application and secure approval. Depending on the project, this may be a straightforward drawing package or a more comprehensive submission tailored to demanding sites or listed buildings.
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Further design development to finalise the spatial arrangement.
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Planning drawings and supporting architectural reports.
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Pre-planning cost reviews.
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Materials, joinery, and finishes selections.
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Coordination with other consultants and specialist advisors.
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3D visualisations and physical modelling.
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Planning applications, listed building consent, and licence to alter applications.
Stage 4 | Technical Design & Tender
This stage delivers the detailed information needed to build and price the project, covering building regulations compliance, statutory approvals, and tender documentation. The scope can be tailored to reflect the scale of the works - on smaller projects, a focused building regulations package may be more economical while still providing sufficient detail for a competent contractor.
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Technical drawings and coordination.
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Architectural specifications and schedules.
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Pre-tender cost reviews.
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CDM information.
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Management of the tender process.
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Contractor selection and appointment.
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Building contract advice and preparation.
Stage 5 | Construction
Bringing a design to life requires careful oversight. Whichever procurement route you choose, having an architect involved during construction helps manage quality, programme, site queries, and contractual matters. On smaller projects with budget constraints, Meraki can offer an advisory role - or you may prefer to proceed independently.
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Site inspections and regular monitoring.
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Financial reviews and cost control.
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Lead consultant role and design team coordination.
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Snagging and handover.
Stage 6 | Handover & Aftercare
The completion of construction marks the beginning of enjoying your new space or building. This stage ensures a smooth transition from site to use, with thorough checks and documentation to give you confidence in the finished project.
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Final inspections and snagging.
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Compilation of the handover pack, including warranties, certificates, and maintenance guidance.
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Coordination of final sign-offs and statutory completion certificates.
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Post-completion review to address any outstanding items.
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Ongoing aftercare advice and support as you settle in.

