SERVICES
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
George James Associates’ architectural services encompass conceptualisation, design and detail, based on the client’s vision for their property. Our knowledge of materials, services and of planning law allows us to detail our approach to the built environment, resulting in more informed decisions for the client.
David and his team have designed buildings around the world, bringing together the client’s vision, conservation laws and other factors to create buildings that delight both in form and function.
PLANNING
Obtaining planning permission – whether for a new build or renovation - is a significant part of the construction process and often represents the greatest added value. From a client’s perspective, however, it can be the most demanding, complex and potentially frustrating part of the process.
David’s knowledge of planning law, as well as of the decisions, materials and approaches that lead to and arise from approval, means that he is able to ensure this part of the process runs smoothly.
THIRD PARTY CO-ORDINATION
Selecting the best consultants, sub-contractors, suppliers and manufacturers, as well as the flawless orchestration of their services, is integral to the success and smooth-running of a building project. These third parties, who are chosen according to the nature of the project, include heritage consultants, interior designers, planning and party wall consultants, acoustic experts, structural engineers, mechanical and electrical consultants and bricklayers.
SERVICE INTEGRATION
A building should not only be beautiful, professionally built, but flawlessly functional as well. Services that need to be integrated include forms of heating, geothermal, air- and water-based heating and cooling systems, data, acoustics, audio visual, building management, integrated lighting, heat recovery, fire and security and waste management.
At George James Associates, we understand the complexity of these services, how to integrate them into the fabric of a building (even a heritage building), how sustainable they are, what redundancy looks like and how to implement back-up systems. For over 25 years our focus has been on the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the building, and we were pioneers in ensuring the sustainability of the built environment.
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Building projects are complex financial undertakings. George James Associates manages the intricacies of VAT, taxation, insurance, warranties and other statutory obligations, creating a more streamlined process, with the aim of generating savings for the client.
The formation of SPV (special purpose vehicles) structures for client projects allows flexibility without losing control of quality, cost or programme. These structures protect and give the client surety from concept to handover, and through to maintenance.
CONSULTANCY
If a client has an established process with another contractor or architect, but it needs a fresh approach, we can help. In many circumstances, it would be unproductive and expensive to radically overhaul any structures that are already in place. We use our wealth of experience and expertise to offer a fresh perspective; we audit and review current processes and offer advice so that the client’s ultimate goals can be achieved seamlessly and cost effectively.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
The smooth management of a property is crucial for both the client's peace of mind and the preservation of the building's value. At George James Associates, we are experts in managing tenants and the building itself throughout a tenancy. This includes safeguarding standards, infrastructure, repairs, security and any other issues that might arise. Our proactive approach, continuity of knowledge and ability to monitor critical systems remotely means that our clients can be certain that their property is safe and well-maintained.
