The earliest design decisions often have the greatest influence on whether a residential development becomes a viable project. Before a planning application is prepared, the site needs to be understood in terms of capacity, context, constraints and commercial ambition.
Start with the development question, not the drawing.
A useful feasibility study does more than place a building footprint on a site. It tests how access, neighbouring properties, overlooking, daylight, existing buildings, planning policy and the character of the area could influence the amount and type of development that may be appropriate.
For developers and landowners, this early work can help identify issues before significant time and professional fees are committed to a planning application.
Planning strategy should inform the architecture.
Design and planning strategy are most effective when they develop together. The objective is not simply to maximise accommodation, but to establish a scheme with a clear architectural rationale that responds to its setting and can be explained convincingly through the planning process.
Think beyond planning permission.
A scheme also needs a credible route into technical design and construction. Structure, fire safety, servicing, drainage, energy performance and buildability can all affect decisions made much earlier in the project. Considering these matters at the right stage can reduce redesign later.
Good feasibility work creates a clearer basis for deciding whether to proceed, revise the brief or reconsider the opportunity before the project becomes expensive to change.
A more informed starting point.
For AURA, early-stage architecture is about bringing design quality, planning awareness and development thinking together. That gives the client a more informed starting point and gives the architectural concept a stronger foundation as the project progresses.