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Tag Archives: Architecture

Architecture is a word which we use to describe the physical aspect of the spaces in which we live, work, eat, pray and learn. Inspiring architecture can be beautiful, thought provoking and functional. Whichever space you are looking to create, you will require an architect and/or building surveyor.

A good architectural practice such as Essex-based Munday and Cramer can:

  • Manage the tender process for trades and services
  • Produce technical drawings
  • Apply for planning permission and building regulations consent on your behalf
  • Manage the project throughout the build
  • Prepare budgets and ensure cost certainty
  • Complete feasibility studies

Choosing the right architect for you is a big commitment. Architectural design is subjective so they will need to not only fit with your budgetary constraints, but also share your vision for the completed build.

Choosing an Architect

The first thing to consider is that your proposed architect is registered with the relevant bodies. UK architects must register with the ARB (Architects Registration Board). Additionally, they can also choose to apply for accreditation with RIBA, RIAI or RIAS should they wish to acquire a Chartered status. Not only should prospective clients check an architect’s credentials, but also it might be wise to check what accreditation entails.

In the first place, builders and tradespeople can often recommend an architect. From that position, the client should employ the rule of (at least) three when gaining quotes. It is important to realise that not all architects will be experienced in all kinds of project. Do some research, ask for case studies of similar builds to your own, and follow up references.

Another key point, is to understand what your quote entails. Some architects will manage the planning application and building regulations process for you, others expect you to have this in hand. Similarly, some practices offer project management and engage trades on the client’s behalf – others simply provide a design drawing for contractors to work from.

Potential clients requiring assistance with any of these architectural services should contact Munday and Cramer on 01245 326200

14
Aug 2024

5 Things to Consider When Planning a House Extension

Are you dreaming of extra living space, a larger kitchen, or an additional bedroom? A house extension can be the perfect solution to accommodate your growing needs. However, it’s essential to plan carefully to ensure a successful project.  1. Planning Permission If you’re wondering, “Do I need planning permission for a house extension?” the answer is usually yes. While some minor interior renovations, such as redecorating a kitchen or bathroom, may not require permission, adding a new room or converting a garage into living space typically does. It’s essential to get the necessary planning approval from your local council to […]

5 Things to Consider When Planning a House Extension
17
Apr 2023

What is Spatial Design?

Alongside the aesthetic look of a building, a house needs to be fit for living. What’s more, it needs to be a welcoming environment that considers your life at its every stage. From growing your family to reaching retirement age, spatial design gives you the gift of a home that’s fit for a lifetime. How spatial design works Although aesthetics are still a key consideration when it comes to the spatial approach, this design type considers factors way beyond the visuals alone. This conceptual discipline looks at both style and functionality, blending the two together to build a practical but […]

Image of spatial design architecture plans
17
Oct 2022

Gothic Revival Architecture: Halloween in Architecture

Based in Essex, the team here at Munday + Cramer are passionate about all thing’s architecture. In fact, there is little we don’t know about this topic and how it has developed through the decades. With Halloween just around the corner, we thought it would be fitting to discuss the art of Gothic Revival architecture – an incredibly popular approach to design and one of our personal favourites! What is Gothic Revival architecture? Taking things one step back, let’s take a look at Gothic architecture and its origin, before looking at its revival. Gothic architecture was an incredibly popular style […]

Gothic revival architecture used in the United States
22
Nov 2021

Designing Buildings to Improve Mental Health

Designing buildings with mental health in mind is important, no matter what kind of industry the building is for. According to mental health charity, Mind, a quarter of all adults experience a mental health problem every year in the UK. A sixth of UK adults will experience a common mental health problem, such as anxiety or depression, in any given week. These statistics show that mental disorders are one of the biggest health problems in the UK and unfortunately the statistics aren’t getting any better. Anything we can do to help improve people’s mental health is one of the key […]

designing for mental health
23
Jul 2021

Architectural Design: How Can Existing Building Stock be Made Greener?

In recent years, a lot of emphasis has been put on the construction of ultra-efficient, new-build homes and other buildings, and rightly so. Whilst this remains a core part of our striving towards a greener future, it’s not the only part. By overly focusing on the green credentials of new property, we risk missing out on the benefits of improving existing building stock. The benefits of doing this, in fact, arguably outweigh those of solely investing in the environmental performance of new property. The team here at Munday + Cramer, an architectural design practice particularly interested in seeing more being […]

How to make buildings greener
20
Oct 2017

CIF Bidding for 2018/9 opens

The Education and Skills Funding Agency have this week opened CIF bidding for the 2018/9 round for academies and sixth-form colleges. As with previous years, the bidding window will close in mid-December, this year on the 14th. The now-familiar portal will be central to all CIF bidding activities; and will follow the same format. Whilst the Condition Improvement Fund remains focused on the condition of buildings, there are a number of changes within this round: Healthy Pupils Capital Fund Following an announcement by the ESFA in February; funding from the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (commonly known as the Sugary Drinks […]

CIF Bidding for 2018/9 has now been opened by the Education and Skills Funding Agency
6
Oct 2017

M+C gain Diocese of Westminster Approval

Munday + Cramer have this week been notified that they will be joining the Diocese of Westminster’s approved consultants panel. This seal of approval follows a raft of new instructions; particularly with academies and Multi-Academy Trusts across London and the South-East. The multi-disciplinary building surveying and architectural practice have worked with a number of Diocesan schools in recent years. Most notably St. Anne’s Catholic Primary School, where Munday + Cramer have successfully delivered a range of schemes in the past 15 years. In addition to largely re-modelling the school over the years, specific projects completed include: A new entrance and […]

Diocese of Westminster Crest
8
Mar 2017

M+C bags a brace at Chelmer Valley

Munday + Cramer have secured a pair of design schemes at Chelmer Valley High School for the coming year. These projects continue the Broomfield school’s long relationship with the Essex architectural and building surveying practice. Firstly, M+C will design a new bespoke canopy to provide an outdoor dining area of some 70m2. The outdoor space will provide additional space for students during break and lunchtime. Thus, timeliness and speed of service will be improved for the busy kitchen. The second scheme comprises a more complex project. M+C will undertake a feasibility study and preliminary designs for a new dedicated pastoral centre […]

Chelmer Valley High School Logo
26
Apr 2016

Full speed ahead at Elliott Hall Medical Centre

Works are well underway at the Elliott Hall Medical Centre in Pinner, Middlesex to provide a raft of changes to the facilities to accommodate the continued growth of the practice. The scheme, funded in part by the NHS Estates and Technology Transformation Fund, will see the vibrant practice benefit from a multi-phase scheme incorporating both a major extension, space-planning and internal re-modelling to create a range of new facilities. The first phase has seen the construction of a new two-storey extension, expanding the existing ground floor waiting room and the practice’s training facilities located on the first floor. Subsequent phases have seen the conversion […]

Elliott Hall Medical Centre