Self-build home: Prepare a detailed design
Introduction.
In this stage, we attribute design activities to ‘designers’. These may be architects and engineers, a design and build contractor, or a kit house supplier. If a kit house supplier is only supplying the house itself, additional design consultants may be required.
The detailed design process takes on and develops the agreed concept design. By the end of the detailed design stage the design should describe all the main components of the building and how they fit together, but the works will not yet have been defined in packages to obtain prices for construction. Detailed design should provide sufficient information to make building regulations applications.
The designer should co-ordinate consultations about the functional aspects of the detailed design with the self builder and should also co-ordinate consultations with the building control body. This may result in amendments to the design.
An elemental cost plan and cash flow projection should be prepared.
During the detailed design stage the designers may require input from the suppliers of goods and services that will be used in the construction of the building. It is important to ensure that pricing and contract conditions have been settled with these companies before any commitment to use their services is made, or it should be made clear that there is no commitment to use them for construction.
The designer will co-ordinate the incorporation of designs by specialist suppliers or contractors into the overall design and will source necessary samples of materials, components and assemblies for approval by the self builder. It may be appropriate to arrange visits to the specialist contractors' and suppliers’ premises to assess samples or mock-ups and to witness tests.
At the end of the stage, the designer should submit a full set of project drawings, specifications and a cost plan to the self builder for comment and approval before progressing to the next stage. For a full description of the aspects of design that might be developed during this stage, see Detailed design.
NB where the proposed development affects a party wall or party structure, it may be appropriate to issue party wall notices and to appoint party wall surveyors at this stage.
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.