Process

A proven
methodology

At Ercle we align the vision of each client with our unerring passion for pioneering contemporary architecture.

Combining the worlds of architecture, technology and interior design to create buildings with character both inside and out, our talented team of architects deliver inspirational properties throughout the South West and beyond.

No two projects are the same, and we fully immerse ourselves in your ideas, no matter what stage you are at with your project. Whether you want us to produce new designs working from the ground up or invite us to reignite a project that has failed to complete, we will approach your project with enthusiasm and careful consideration.

How we work

  • 01

    01Introduce

    With an initial phone conversation to share your ideas and pose questions, together we can then explore the potential for your project. After this conversation, we will undertake a (free) on-site consultation to better understand the lay of the land and see the site firsthand. Following this we will issue you with our projected fixed fee proposal which will cover all stages of work required. Our architects are skilled in implementing strategies to help save money and time, and by exploring and understanding the budget requirement, we can put preliminary plans and ideas in place to ensure we deliver everything you are hoping to achieve and more.

  • 02

    02Evaluate

    This is the stage where we define the client brief and undertake a detailed site analysis. We use this opportunity to confirm the constraints and opportunities which present at this stage of the process, before researching the planning history of adjacent properties to become better acquainted with any planning issues. Using an approved list of specialist consultants, we will undertake ecology surveys, tree surveys, heritage statements and flood risk analysis. These reports will inform and shape our design. For listed buildings, we will investigate the listing and thoroughly understand the implications therein. We use advanced technology and innovative software to assess the feasibility of the design and any other site constraints (both physical and policy related) before any work commences, taking guesswork out of the equation and giving you peace of mind from the outset.

  • 03

    03Design

    Using the information we have gained during the evaluation stage, and following regular discussions with the client, we will develop a 3D design along with still images of both the internal and external areas. We work fluidly and will create a considered response to the design question which has been asked of us. The 3D model produced will be available to ‘walk around’ in real-time at any stage of the process. Working in 3D grants us the ability to test materials, fenestration patterns and juxtaposition of textures to create a visually appealing design.

  • 04

    04Planning

    Once the scheme is designed it will be submitted for planning. A strong understanding of planning policy is integral to a successful application. Our detailed understanding of the planning process means we are able to provide relevant precedents that support applications. This detailed work undertaken at the start of the process is crucial and makes all the difference to the success of the application. The planning process can sometimes be complex, but we keep you informed about every twist and turn so you know exactly when to expect planning approval.

    In the current planning climate, a good design and a good set of drawings are often not enough. We support our applications through the planning process with regular dialogue with the case officer. We use in-depth, in-house planning knowledge to reinforce each planning applications, often using previous appeal and high court decisions to back up our architectural designs. The ability to challenge the case officers using relevant planning knowledge gives greater opportunity to succced on potentially difficult applications.

  • 05

    05Construction & Inspection

    Once planning is granted, we start to make your dream a reality and the cogs of the project will be set in motion. We will undertake full construction information design and, using the same 3D model that created the planning information, we will create detailed construction plans. Too often in our industry, architects depend on component-based construction information where one component is fitted into another without proper analysis of the interfaces. We work from first principles on each element and are constantly revising our process to create cost-effective robust construction information. We partner with approved consultants on structural, civil and drainage design to ensure a fully coordinated design.

    Once the drawings are all produced, we submit the drawings for building control and at the same time we invite contractors to tender for the project build.

  • 06

    06Execute

    Once tendered, we will work with contractors to answer their queries in order to generate three competitive quotes for the work. Once ​a tender is agreed, we will enter into a construction contract between the client and the contractor with Ercle working as contract administrator. Once the contracts are signed, the project starts on site and Ercle will attend the site at regular intervals to monitor the works. We maintain this meticulous level of attention throughout the entire build process to ensure the very best outcome. On completion of the build, Ercle will issue practical completion and from that date, our indemnity insurance will back the build for 6 years to give ultimate peace of mind for all parties involved.

Architecture.
Planning.
Design.

What our clients say

I've had the pleasure of working with Ercle on our projects, and I must say that their attention to detail and ability to think outside the box have resulted in solutions that not only meet our needs but also exceed our expectations. Working with Eric is always a joy, and I highly recommend him to anyone who wants to take their project to the next level."
Jake and Olivia, Cornwall

Services

We deliver a broad range of projects for both residential and commercial properties. As a dynamic, forward-thinking architecture practice, we embrace technology and are constantly striving to be at the forefront of new technological developments which are not only intelligently-designed, but also sympathetic to their surroundings with a light environmental footprint. The success of our work is based on providing the highest attention to detail through a tailored service whilst adhering to the brief and budget set.

  • Architecture

    We create buildings which are a joy to experience and which have a positive impact on people’s lives. Our designs are thoughtful and innovative, and we especially love challenging projects which fire our creativity.

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  • Sustainability

    We deliver innovative buildings that put the environment at the centre of design, incorporating intelligent energy saving solutions to meet the demands of each project and take pride in our sustainable methods of working.

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  • Passivhaus

    It is a tried and tested solution which delivers a considered approach to architecture design and optimises buildings for maximum occupant health and wellbeing. We adopt a Passivhaus approach when we design our buildings, bringing low energy bills, constant fresh air, superior internal comfort and peaceful and quiet interiors to every property.

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  • BIM

    Using Building Information Modelling (BIM) software to generate a 3D model of your property, means we can assess how it will look and function from the outset. This technology enables us to carefully analyse structure and form, ensuring potential mistakes are remedied before arriving on site. We can even link the model to a virtual reality headset to allow you to walk around your building virtually prior to build.

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  • Planning

    We can help steer the whole planning permission procedure (including retrospective applications and appeals), as well as advising on building control and whatever else it takes to get your project out of the ground. As well as designing your property, we can help to guide you through any applications, approvals and negotiations with statutory bodies which might be required as the design develops.

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  • Interior Design

    We believe that a property’s interior design goes hand-in-hand with the architecture itself and the two elements hold equal importance. Space planning, furniture and joinery designs, lighting design and interior finishings are all crucial aspects when creating buildings with character both inside and out. We offer a complete interior design service to ensure that the vision is able to continue through into the living spaces of your abode.

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  • Heritage

    We work sympathetically with the building to bring about a space which looks forwards whilst not forgetting its past. We love the challenge of incorporating modern insertions into a historical setting to show the clear definition between old and new.

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  • Visualisation

    A integral part of architecture is understanding the spaces we inhabit and by using computer generated models alongside virtual reality we can envision these spaces before they are even built. We can then in real time, alter the built form, testing choices and accurately seeing the results of these design changes

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Recent Projects

  • The Old Dispensary

  • The Ferns

  • Shortlands

  • Bella Vista

    A one off grand design dwelling near Bristol

  • The Cote

    Energy Efficient contemporary bungalow in Noss Mayo

  • Homer Park

    Two exceptional accommodations over three floors in the Pilmere Green Finger