RIBA Stage 1&2

Often this stage starts with a meeting on site with the client and the rest of the design team, where we can gain an understanding of the project brief. This will involve walking through the architect and interior designer’s plans: discussing the design intent, structural elements and initial ideas for furniture layouts and finishes. Following this meeting we can start to develop the initial lighting design; drawing up plans and concepts which, depending on the project, can involve renders, CGI, sketches and mood boards.

RIBA Stage 3&4

Following feedback from the design team and client we can develop the concept design into a lighting package ready for tender. Being an independent lighting design consultancy with a wide range of trusted lighting suppliers we can ensure all the fittings specified are of the highest quality whilst remaining within budget.

During this stage, our team will prepare a full set of lighting drawings using AutoCAD, indicating the position of each fitting, circuit number, luminaire reference and control type. Additional documentation provided includes a luminaire schedule with details about each fitting specified, a control schedule showing the circuit details and loadings and a booklet illustrating technical details about how the lighting is integrated into areas such as joinery, ceilings, niches etc.

RIBA Stage 5

Before first fix starts it is beneficial for us to meet with the electrical contractor on site to go through the lighting scheme in full. We will also be on hand to support the build project at every stage as things evolve on site. Design revisions are inevitable at this stage and we can accommodate any changes as the project progresses.

Procurement

A project tracker will also be provided detailing the quantity of fittings specified and the costs across the whole project so we can be sure to stay in budget. Working closely with suppliers we can ensure we provide the best prices available.

Once signed off by the client we order all architectural fittings to our Leicestershire office, where everything is checked and labelled with the correct product description, luminaire reference and its location within the project. We then liaise with site staff so that deliveries are scheduled and easy to identify, allowing for a smooth installation process.

RIBA Stage 6

As the project concludes, a final site visit will take place where we can commission the design.

If a lighting control system is being used, a programming document will have been provided prior to our visit which could be used by an AV company to input some pre-set scenes. If required, we can use our final site visit to assist them with refining these scenes so that they are programmed with oversight from our lighting designer.

We will also conduct a walk-through of the whole property, adjusting spotlight directions and making sure all decorative lighting has the correct specification of bulb fitted. Finally, we will check that everything has been installed correctly and is fully operational at the point of handover.