OUR SERVICES
For commercial clients the process of hiring an architect and the services that are available from an architect will be well understood. However we know that, for domestic clients who may only have building work done occasionally (or only once), the process may be daunting. That's why we strive to make a complex process as simple to understand as possible.
Our service will be tailored to your individual requirements and this will be discussed in detail to you at the outset of your project. We will, for instance, assess which consents (if any) you will require from the local authority (such as planning permission, listed building consent or a building warrant) and advise you if there are likely to be any problems in obtaining these. We will work with you to develop the design so that it is exactly in line with your requirements. And when it is time to build, we will be with you all the way through the process to safeguard your interests and thoroughly inspect the work as it progresses.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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WHAT DOES NMA DO?
We use our design and construction skills and experience to help you to realise your dreams.
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IS MY PROJECT TOO SMALL TO ASK NMA TO BE INVOLVED?
At NMA we're set up to provide services for any size of project including small alterations and minor building works like removing a wall or fitting patio doors. So please don't be concerned that you'll be wasting our time with an enquiry...we're more than happy to talk your ideas through with you on a "no obligation" basis.
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WILL NMA'S FEES BE VERY HIGH?
At NMA we pride ourselves on our ability to provide a cost effective service with fees for minor works starting in the low hundreds of pounds. We have an obligation to confirm our fees up-front and these will be broken down into the stages of work so that you can see what you will be charged and when.
WHAT WILL NMA ACTUALLY DO FOR MY MONEY?
Our service typically runs from the start of your project until completion and includes preparation of designs and construction information, applying for local authority consents, obtaining quotations for the building works, administering the building contract and inspecting works on site. As you can imagine, this is potentially a complex process requiring great skill, care and experience. And you can ask us to do as little or as much of our "full" service as you need.
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I'VE SEEN OTHER COMPANIES OFFERING ARCHITECTURAL AND DESIGN SERVICES; WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
We're chartered architects. The title "architect" is protected in law to be used only by those who are suitably qualified (usually after 7 years full time study). Some firms run by those without such qualifications call themselves "architectural services", "design services" or something similar as they aren't allowed to use the word "architect" in their title. All genuine architects are registered with the Architects Registration Board...see the button under these questions.
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AND WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
Would you want to risk the safety and security of your greatest asset by leaving your project to people who aren't suitably qualified? As registered architects, we are under a duty placed on us by our professional bodies to act in your best interests only. This means that we aren't allowed, for instance, to take hidden inducements from contractors or suppliers for referring them your work to supplement our fees (which can cost you more money). We are also under a professional obligation to carry the requisite insurances and to act with a high level of skill and care in carrying out your project.
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WHAT ARE THE OTHER BENEFITS OF USING NMA?
We firmly believe that our design and construction training and careful space planning can save you unnecessary costs through value engineering and efficiency. We treat each project as unique and believe that all projects, however small, benefit from the high levels of design input we are able to provide. After all, you want your project to be special. And so do we.
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SO HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Just contact us by phone, fill in the form below or pop in! We'll be happy to discuss your requirements and give you some initial advice without charging a fee.