Technical Services (RIBA Stage 4)
Technical: Building Regulations & Construction Drawings
“We once worked with a couple in Camden who had an approved design from another architect but couldn’t get it built. The builder said it lacked detail, the engineer flagged coordination issues, and Building Control kept asking for resubmissions. We started again from the ground up — and that’s when it clicked: the gap between ‘planning approved’ and ‘buildable’ is where the real value lies.”
What is Technical Design?
This is where design meets reality. RIBA Stage 4 — Technical Design — turns your approved planning scheme into a fully detailed, coordinated package that your contractor, engineer, and Building Control can work from.
It’s the bridge between creativity and construction. And when done right, it avoids cost overruns, site delays, and guesswork during the build.
What Our Technical Service Includes
We prepare a complete construction-ready technical package, including:
- Fully detailed building regulations drawings
- Coordinated layouts, sections, and construction details
- Key junction drawings (foundations, walls, roof, openings, etc.)
- Coordination with structural engineers and other consultants
- Outline specification of materials and finishes
- Submission to Building Control or Approved Inspector
- Support during tendering, if applicable
All work is produced in 3D/BIM to avoid clashes and ensure smooth coordination with consultants.
It’s where lines become layers. And layers become buildable architecture.
Who This Service Is For
- Clients with planning approval ready to move forward to build
- Contractors needing accurate, compliant, coordinated drawings
- Developers needing detailed tender and construction packages
Whether we’ve designed your scheme from the start or are picking up from a previous architect, this is where we make sure it can actually be built.
How the Technical Stage Works: Step by Step
Step 1: Review Planning Approval & Site Constraints
We begin by reviewing your approved design and any planning conditions, site-specific challenges, or engineer’s input.
Step 2: Develop Building Regulations Drawings
We generate the full set of drawings needed for Building Control, including detailed plans, sections, elevations, and key construction junctions.
Step 3: Coordinate with Structural Engineer & Consultants
We liaise with your appointed engineer and any specialists (e.g. drainage, M&E) to ensure everything aligns within the architectural model.
Step 4: Prepare Specification Overview
We produce a document outlining key materials, finishes, and performance standards to support pricing and construction.
Step 5: Submit to Building Control
We submit your application to either a local authority or Approved Inspector, and follow through on any required revisions.
Step 6 (Optional): Support Tendering Process
If you are putting the project out to tender, we help assemble the package and respond to contractor queries.
Why Technical Design Matters
- Prevents design errors becoming site problems
- Ensures legal compliance with Building Regulations
- Allows accurate cost planning and tendering
- Speeds up construction by resolving detail in advance
In short: it’s the difference between design intent and delivery confidence.
Why Choose DOR Architects?
- All drawings prepared in 3D/BIM, giving contractors and engineers clarity
- Deep knowledge of Building Regulations and sequencing
- Hands-on, build-focused approach grounded in real site experience
- Trusted by contractors for being clear, accurate, and coordinated
FAQs
Do I need technical drawings if I already have planning approval?
Yes — planning drawings aren’t enough to build from. Technical drawings are required for Building Control and the contractor.
Can I use your drawings to get quotes from builders?
Absolutely. Our technical packages are detailed enough for competitive tendering.
What’s the difference between Building Regulations and planning permission?
Planning deals with appearance, massing, and use. Building Regulations deal with safety, performance, and construction compliance.
Do you liaise with Building Control?
Yes — we manage the submission and coordinate any back-and-forth with the inspector.
Ready for the next stage?
If you’ve secured planning permission, this is where it becomes real. Let’s make it buildable, coordinated, and code-compliant from the start.
📍 London-Based Architects | Build-Focused | 3D Technical Detail 📞 studio@dorarch.com | Call us
Disclaimer: The content provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice. Please consult a qualified architect or building control specialist for project-specific guidance.