Our Services
Full Project Design & Guidance
We offer a wide range of services all of which can be tailored to your specific requirements. Our full design service can guide you through your entire project, from idea to completion. We can also administer a building contract if you choose to use one – or we can work with you only on the parts that you require.
Design To Suit Your Life
Fife Architects combines design excellence with technical expertise to deliver projects professionally and with elegance. We take time to understand your vision and requirements, using our experience to unlock each project’s full potential.
Whether you’re planning a residential extension, new build house, extension, restoration or refurbishment, we provide comprehensive support throughout your journey. Our approach blends innovative design with environmental consciousness, while expertly managing planning permissions, building regulations, and construction oversight.
We ensure every detail is handled professionally, allowing you to focus on what matters – watching your project come to life.
All of our services are underpinned by the Royal Institute of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) Plan of Work appointment documents, also compatible with RIBA 2020, which will be prepared specifically for your project.
Home Renovations & Extensions
Bespoke House Designs & Self Builds
Green Design & Sustainability Advice
Contract & Site Administration
Initial Consultations & Pre-Purchase Consultations
If you are just beginning your project or perhaps thinking about doing something but not sure what, we can visit your property or plot and spend time discussing your requirements and the implications of these with you in an Initial Consultation. Or maybe you are thinking of buying a property and could do with a professional opinion on the place before you make an offer, which is where a Pre Purchase Consultation is useful. If you would like to book a consultation – please contact us and tell us about your project.
Process
Stage 01
Preparation of the Brief
At the beginning of each project, its purpose and intensions, together with its schedule of accommodation, site and budget are formed in to what is know as a brief. The brief is something that we develop together with you, in order to be as thorough as possible from the outset, and becomes the backbone of your project.
Stage 02
Initial Design
Based on your agreed brief, initial decisions in the design stage will include formalising which rooms need to be adjacent, where stairs and fire escapes are needed, what external materials are preferred…there is a lot to consider! The Initial Design stage allows us to test the project and make sure we are on the right track in terms of your requirements and budget.
Stage 03
To Planning Application
The outline design is developed to show a defined appearance for the building, how fixtures and fittings are incorporated and how important details of construction are intended to work. We will check that the design proposals are within the brief parameters and in harmony with your stated objectives as regards quality, long term maintenance and performance. We will at this stage provide the information for design and layout to accompany your application to the local authority planning department. Legal information required by the local authority, e.g. site boundary, rights of access etc. should be referred to your lawyer. Your approval of the design drawings marks the completion of the primary design stages.
Stage 4a
To Building Warrant Application
The application to the local authority for a building warrant requires the project architect and consulting engineer to submit drawings and calculations which show how proposals comply with the current Scottish Building Standards Regulations. Key construction details and building envelope specifications are defined at this stage and would form the basis for the more detailed construction documentation package.
Stage 4b
Construction Documentation
Once the building warrant is issued and the technical drawings are complete, the way is clear to prepare the construction documentation in preparation for tendering the project to the potential contractors. There is a great deal of coordination and dialogue required for the drawings to reflect the client exact requirements, so expect revisions to the design.
Stage 4c
Tender Administration
The documents usually comprise the contract drawings, the specification of materials and components, the Bill of Quantities which can be prepared by a cost consultant (Quantity Surveyor) and the Conditions of Contract. The latter two are normally in a standard format and define the obligations of the parties to the contract, namely the client as the ’employer’ and the contractor.
Stage 5
Construction
The contractor consents to organise and direct the building work in accordance with his contractual obligations, and to supervise the work so as to achieve satisfactory completion on time. In traditional procurement, the chartered architect’s role as contract administrator is to make periodic site visits to inspect the general progress of the work, to issue instructions to the contractor and, if necessary, to reject obviously unsatisfactory work. During construction, we will report to you on matters of progress, on any unforeseen circumstances on site, any variations in budget or programme and will issue periodic certificates for stage payments due to the contractor.
Stage 6
Post Completion Work
Once the construction work is complete, there is a number of administrative duties that need addressed, particularly in obtaining the adequate completion certificates and certificates of design from the many different trades. There is also work involved in dealing with the contractor to address any defects or snagging items which may arise after the site completion.
Sustainability
Sustainability in architecture is a core value of our work at Fife Architects, as we believe in creating spaces that not only serve your needs today but also protect the environment for future generations. By incorporating energy-efficient designs, using sustainable materials, and implementing environmentally-conscious construction practices, we strive to minimise a building’s carbon footprint and reduce waste while maximising energy efficiency in use. Our approach encourages healthier living and working environments by promoting natural light, improving air quality, and enhancing climate resilience. At Fife Architects, we are committed to shaping a more sustainable future through innovative, eco-friendly architecture that aligns with both our clients’ needs and the well-being of the planet.
Conservation & Listed Buildings
Preserving Heritage, Enhancing Functionality
At Fife Architects, we specialise in breathing new life into historic properties while preserving their unique character and architectural significance. Our expertise spans:
- Sensitive thermal upgrades for improved energy efficiency
- Thoughtful extensions that complement original structures
- Careful renovations that preserve historical elements
- Creative conversions of traditional buildings to modern uses
- Comprehensive refurbishments of period properties
Our experienced team guides clients through every aspect of historic property work—from initial surveys and planning applications to listed building consent and detailed conservation strategies. Whether you’re considering the restoration of original features, sensitive adaptation of a historic property, or a new build within a conservation area, we provide the expertise needed to bring your project to fruition while protecting its historical significance.
Transforming Traditional Structures
From disused farm buildings and doocots to traditional Scottish mills, we have worked with clients over the years to help them transform existing buildings into accommodation that better suits contemporary requirements while honouring their heritage. Our approach balances preservation with practical improvements, ensuring historic buildings remain relevant and functional for generations to come.
