A Guide to the Architectural Design Process through the RIBA Plan of Work

For architectural designers, clients, and stakeholders alike, the journey from an initial idea to a completed building is both exciting and complex. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work provides a structured framework to guide this process, ensuring clarity, efficiency, and collaboration at every stage. Here, we explore the RIBA Plan of Work and how it shapes the stages of an architectural design project.

Our projects are designed with the RIBA Plan of Work which is crucial to take an initial idea and turn it into reality

What is the RIBA Plan of Work?

The RIBA Plan of Work is a definitive model for building design and construction in the UK. First introduced in 1963 and regularly updated to reflect industry advancements, it divides the architectural process into eight stages, from project inception to completion and beyond. Each stage provides a clear outline of tasks, responsibilities, and deliverables, helping to align the efforts of the project team.

The Eight Stages of the RIBA Plan of Work

Stage 0: Strategic Definition

This initial stage focuses on identifying the project’s core purpose and feasibility. Key activities include defining the client’s objectives, exploring site options, and setting the project’s strategic brief. This stage ensures that the right project is pursued and that the scope aligns with the client’s ambitions. It is important to consider that constructing a building may not necessarily be the best way to achieve the client’s aspirations.

Stage 1: Preparation and Brief

The strategic brief evolves into a detailed project brief. This stage involves site surveys, feasibility studies, and early stakeholder engagement. Architectural designers collaborate with clients to clarify the ‘Holy Trinity’ of the project’s requirements: spaces/ uses, budget, and programme, setting a solid foundation for the design process. Core constraints (planning, building control, construction methodologies etc) and opportunities (views, light, space, uses etc) should be discussed at this stage. Stages 0-1 are normally carried out through a free consultation at MWArchitectural before a fee proposal is agreed and the project progresses.

Stage 2: Concept Design

Here, architectural designers begin exploring design ideas. Concept designs are developed to outline the spatial and aesthetic qualities of the project. Early sketches, diagrams, and massing studies help communicate the vision. Our highly collaborative design ethos ensures that concepts are never enforced: everything is up for discussion and we partner with you to ensure the very best solution is considered and enacted. It is important to carry out this stage with a continual return to Stages 0-1, having relevant constraints and opportunities understood by both designer and client.

Different options might be considered with Stage 2, leading to an iterative process where we partner with you to come to the very best solution possible

Stage 3: Spatial Coordination

Also known as the Developed Design stage (although this comes from a previous iteration of the Plan of Work), this phase refines the concept design into a coordinated architectural proposal. For complex projects, certain members of the design team will feed into the process to integrate technical requirements relating to planning, buildability and any site-specific constraints. This ensures the design is feasible and stands a good chance of obtaining planning approval. The application process is also generally included in this stage; more information on improving your chances of a successful approval can be found here.

Stage 4: Technical Design

A very resource-intensive stage, technical design is where construction drawings and specifications are produced, enabling contractors to price and build the project accurately. This stage builds on the drawing set produced within previous stages and also includes the development of construction sections and details, schedules, and building control submissions. Collaboration between consultants and specialist suppliers is critical. This stage is typically completed only after planning (if required) is in place to balance your risk: proceeding with this stage might lead to abortive architectural costs if there is a hiccup with gaining your approval.

The Technical Design stage is where a lot of coordination between design team members happens

Stage 5: Manufacturing and Construction

With designs finalised, the project moves on site. Architectural designers play an oversight role, ensuring the construction aligns with the approved plans and quality standards. Regular site visits and contractor coordination are key aspects of this stage along with being on hand at the end of the phone and via email to keep important decision-making as quick as possible. Leaning into the fulfilment of the construction contract and legal health and safety obligations is also a typical task during this stage. MWArchitectural approach this stage in a highly flexible manner, depending on your relationship with the contractor and how comfortable you are with the nuances of building projects.

Stage 6: Handover

As construction concludes, the building is handed over to the client. Architectural designers assist with final inspections, compiling operations and maintenance manuals, and addressing any outstanding issues. MWArchitectural can be on hand to ‘snag’ the finally completed works, walking through the completed works with yourself and the contractor to identify any areas that might need rectification. Obtaining all of the relevant licences and certificates is also incredibly important to prove that the works are of a high quality. This stage ensures a smooth transition from construction to occupation.

Stage 7: Use

The final stage focuses on post-occupancy evaluation and the ongoing performance of the building. Feedback from users and building performance data can inform future projects and improve client satisfaction. This can be difficult as some technical aspects are difficult to quantify but we are always incredibly interested in hearing how we could improve our services to build on the fantastic client experience we have come to be known for.

Why is the RIBA Plan of Work Important?

The RIBA Plan of Work provides a shared language and roadmap for all project participants: it is understood by many within the industry, not just architectural professionals. It is also a good way to benchmark different quotations from architectural designers, ensuring that you are comparing like-for-like. Utilising the Plan of Work:

·         Enhances Communication: Clear definitions of roles and deliverables reduce misunderstandings.

·         Streamlines Processes: A logical sequence of stages ensures efficient progress.

·         Supports Quality Assurance: Milestones for review and approval maintain project standards.

Adapting the Plan for Your Project

While the RIBA Plan of Work offers a universal framework, MWArchitectural adapt it to different project types, scales, and procurement routes. For clients, understanding this process is key to ensuring that their aspirations are realised effectively and we can explain more about the general process and how this works in tandem with our fees. Whether you’re embarking on a renovation or a new self-build project, our team is here to navigate every stage with expertise and creativity.

Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to discuss your project and how we can bring your vision to life.