Considering an Architect’s Pre-Design or Feasibility Study
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Introduction - What is a Feasibility Study
A feasibility study is a way to mitigate project challenges early on, particularly prior to committing a lot of money to the project.
To give just one example, the UK planning system. A feasibility study could be an opportunity to outline and, therefore, mitigate some of the planning challenges you may face. It is particularly concerning that the UK has one of the most challenging planning systems in the world.
By undertaking a feasibility study, clients can gain a better understanding of whether a project is feasible.
Part of a feasibility study, as a part of a pre-application as to whether the client can build within the green belt.
What will a Feasibility study investigate?
You may wish to consider two types of feasibility studies with your architect: Project Feasibility and Design Feasibility. We discuss both below in more detail.
Project Feasibility: feasibility is broader and focused on the project's externalities - these can include:
Local planning regulations
Flood and Environmental Constraints
Building Control regulations
Archaeological, Conservation and Heritage Interests
Highway accessibility
Project risks
Project cost
Design Feasibility: As the name suggests, design feasibility is more focused on the Aesthetics of a project and how it looks. This can often be a key concern for clients undertaking residential work, as it might be the first time they are having their home designed, so imagining what the project will look like can be challenging. A Design Feasibility may also help with the following:
Securing Financing for the Project: We have assisted clients in securing bank loans or mortgage refinancing based on a feasibility study. Additionally, the feasibility study can be used to negotiate more favourable terms with the bank.
Consider exploring various design options. While clients often have initial ideas about the project's appearance and construction, the feasibility study phase is crucial. During this phase, architects can identify potential challenges and pitfalls that might not be immediately apparent.
One project that we undertook a detailed feasibility study was the Renewable Container Living.
Preliminary sun path diagrams to enhance sustainability by optimizing natural lighting and reducing energy consumption.
Is the project even viable?
We often find, particularly in rural areas within the green belt, that local and national planning policies limit a project’s viability. A feasibility study can form the backbone of a project pre-application. Whilst a recommendation from the planning officer at the pre-application stage for approval is by no means a guarantee of full-planning application approval, it acts as some form of risk mitigation to clients thinking about undertaking a project.
Sometimes, finding the perfect plot involves boots on the ground
Conclusion
A good architect should be flexible with feasibility studies, tailoring them to your specific project, needs, and concerns. An architect's feasibility study is not merely a preliminary step in the design and construction process; it is a critical element for the success of any project.
It uncovers hidden factors, addresses potential challenges, and considers all aspects, from planning regulations to design aesthetics.
By providing a comprehensive evaluation of a project's viability, feasibility studies help clients make informed decisions, secure financing, and explore various design options. This process ultimately paves the way for sustainable and successful projects.
Investing in a feasibility study means investing in the long-term success and sustainability of your project, making it an indispensable tool for any aspiring homeowner or developer.
Working with a good architect will help streamline the entire process from conception to completion
