Detailed Technical Design (RIBA Stage 4)
At KD Design, we often take over projects from other architects to complete the detailed technical design phase, also known as working drawings or RIBA Stage 4: Technical Design.
It’s quite common for clients to work with an Architect to secure planning consent for their project and then for various reasons decide to work with KD Design to take over the detailed design and site support. This allows the project to progress smoothly from concept approval to construction-ready plans.
In some cases, we collaborate with the original architect who wishes to remain involved, overseeing the overall design direction. This enables us to focus on the technical details and construction documentation, ensuring that every aspect of the project is precise, buildable, and compliant with regulations.
What Stage 4: Technical Design Includes
At Stage 4, KD Design develops the detailed technical information that allows your project to move from planning approval to construction with confidence. This phase typically covers:
Energy Compliance & Insulation Strategy
We work with energy assessors to confirm insulation requirements and ensure full compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations.
Ground Investigations
Where required we arrange site surveys to assess soil conditions, foundations, and other ground-related factors
Structural Coordination
Engaging and liaising with structural engineers to integrate their input into the design and ensure structural integrity.
Technical Drawings
We prepare precise construction drawings, including plans, sections, elevations, and enlarged details, to guide the build.
Wall constructions & Insulation detailing
Further detail required for party wall agreement
Door & Window Schedules
Detailed bathroom and Kitchen designs
Structural & timber frame connection details
Building Specifications
Preparing detailed specification notes to demonstrate compliance with building regulations and construction standards.
Health & Safety Planning
Producing pre-tender health & safety plans and any additional detailed specifications required for the project.
Building Regulations Submission
Preparing and submitting proposals for full plans building regulations approval, ensuring the project is legally compliant before construction begins.
Discharging planning conditions
It is not uncommon for planning authorities to attach long lists of conditions to a planning consent. Some of these may be pre-commencement conditions, which must be discharged before construction can start.
KD Design can prepare the necessary technical details and submit applications on your behalf. Common requirements include:
Tree and root protection measures
Schedule of external materials and physical samples
Landscaping layouts and external lighting plans
Ecological features such as bat and bird boxes or hedgehog access points
Why Work with KD Design at Stage 4
By taking responsibility for the detailed technical design, KD Design ensures your project is:
Buildable – with clear drawings and specifications that contractors can rely on
Compliant – meeting all Building Regulations and local authority requirements
Coordinated – integrating input from consultants such as structural engineers and energy assessors
Efficient – reducing site risks, avoiding misunderstandings, and keeping the project on time and on budget
We provide the technical expertise so that you can stay focused on the vision and overall design intent.
If you’d like to hear more about us or to discuss how we can assist with your project please get in touch.
Let’s Work Together!
Do you have some big ideas and need some help bringing them to life? Then please reach out. We’d love to hear from you and learn about your project, and to get the ball rolling we’d be happy to offer some initial informal advice free of charge.
Please Contact us and we’ll be in touch to discuss further at a time that suits you.