ABOUT

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Charlton Building Design is an architecture and design studio based in north London. Our aim is to create designs that combine a passion for materials and natural light with a practical approach to solving the challenges of modern domestic life: to make spaces for individuals and families to live well and enjoy. 

CBD was founded in 2015 by David Charlton, who has over 20 years experience designing and building unique spaces. Before studying architecture at Westminster University David trained as a sculpture conservator and the studio’s values draw on his knowledge and enjoyment of materials and historic details. David prides himself on creating buildings that celebrate original features while creating brand new contemporary homes. 

We can see building projects through from concept to completion, looking after design, planning applications, surveys, tender and contract administration. It is our aim to provide personal support and guidance to clients at all stages of a building project. CBD is proud to have strong relationships with a range of building professionals and contractors, which ensures we deliver consistency and quality, to budget and to schedule.

We apply particular attention to materials, detailing, integrated furnishings and natural light. We aim to find the best aesthetic solutions for all our jobs, while ensuring every effort goes into making architecture that works in everyday use. Regardless of size or location, our focus is on bespoke homemaking to meet clients’ needs.

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HOW WE WORK

  • An initial meeting and discussion of the clients’ requirements: their own vision for their space and how they are hoping to use it. This is the essential starting point for maximising the potential of existing buildings within the budgets available - and creating truly bespoke solutions. 

  • Continued creative discussion, feedback and collaboration to produce initial designs, costing and programme. We use computer aided design, hand drawings, physical models and 3D images to help clients visualise the proposals.

  • We will look at the condition of your building and assess structure, drainage and services and carry out measured drawings. 

  • In most cases we would engage a structural engineer at this point and a party wall surveyor to agree matters relating to neighbouring boundaries.

  • If required, planning applications will be submitted to the local authority for approval - including a design statement if your property is listed or in a conservation area.

  • Following planning consent, drawings are then refined to produce detailed technical designs for tender, including a schedule of work and specifications. It’s at this point that firm decisions are made on materials, products and finishes. A good tender package is vital for a contractor to price accurately and construct to an agreed standard. Much of this information is also submitted to building inspectors to ensure compliance with national building regulations.

  • Tender is then submitted, usually to between one and four contractors. The contractor is generally selected and employed by the client, however CBD can provide guidance on appointment of the most suitable firm.

  • The contract between client and contractor is then prepared by us and agreed. A start date is determined, and the site handed over to the builder.

  • During the following construction stage CBD will oversee the build and all obligations set out in the contract, monitoring quality and programme. We will liaise with engineers and subcontractors, issue certificates for client payments to the builder (usually monthly), instruct any changes or additions a client may want, identify defects and resolve any unforeseen issues encountered on site. Typically 5% of the builder’s bill is held by the client until after completion.

  • Completion, and hand-over: we will ensure all scheduled items are 100% finished, including final snagging and site clearance. If applicable the building regulations certificate will then be issued and a six months defects liability period begin. In that time we will work with the builder on any faults that may occur, with the final 5% retention then due 6 months after completion.