Studio Bark Site Appraisal: Getting Your Project Right from Day One

Studio Bark Site Appraisal: Getting Your Project Right from Day One

The Appraisal Journey: Getting You Project-Ready

Are you wondering if your land is truly suitable to build on? Or considering an extension but unsure what you can realistically achieve within your budget?

Starting an architectural project can feel overwhelming. Before investing significant time and money in designs that may need to be scrapped, you need clarity and confidence.

That’s why we begin with our comprehensive Site Appraisal, giving you the robust information and professional framework required to move forward successfully, whoever you choose to work with. It transforms your initial ideas into a solid, defined project.

Whether you need help navigating complex planning requirements, want to explore whole life zero carbon design, or simply curious to define your aesthetic, this crucial first step delivers your bespoke project brief and a clear pathway to bringing your vision to life.

Step One: Initial Discovery Phone Call

Studio Bark team on a discovery call

Start With A Conversation

The call ensures we’re a good fit, and often helps our clients clarify their vision and next steps, before we even begin the appraisal.

Step Two: Expert Desktop Research

Preparing for a site visit with Studio Bark Architects

Preparing For The Site Appraisal

Ahead of appraisal day, our team conduct in-depth desktop research. This helps us familiarise ourselves with your property’s planning history, constraints, and potential. This preparation ensures our on-site appraisal is as targeted, valuable, and time-efficient as possible.

Step Three: The Site Appraisal Day

Countryside view at site visit with Studio Bark
Nest House // Studio Bark

Site Appraisal Day With Studio Bark

This immersive day is all about gathering all the necessary information and aligning on your vision:

  • Site Tour: We’ll start with a tour of your site or home together, allowing us to get a feel for the property and to find out what matters most to you about the project first-hand. We’ll also take time to walk the site independently, capturing photographs, noting key vantage points, and gathering impressions firsthand. Seeing the site in person is invaluable.
  • Define Your Brief: Beyond size and layout, we’ll uncover the types of spaces you enjoy, the materials you’re drawn to, and any other qualities that reflect your own personal style. This step is all about helping you explore and define your vision in a meaningful way.
  • Relevant Examples: We’ll share a few of our recent projects, guiding you through the process from conception to planning application and beyond. This glimpse clarifies the journey ahead and helps you visualise your own project’s development.

After The Day: Your Bespoke Appraisal Document

Studio Bark team prepare a site appraisal document

Yours To Keep: The Bespoke Appraisal Document

Following the visit, you’ll receive a detailed, bespoke Appraisal Document. This report is your project’s ultimate starting block, providing:

  • A clear site analysis: An in depth look at your site’s unique opportunities and constraints
  • A solid, defined brief: A professional, written document based on our discussions, ready to brief any designer or contractor.

Why this matters: This document stops you chasing vague ideas, organising your thoughts and giving you a realistic project structure and clear direction. It’s the root that ensures all future design work is grounded in reality.

What Happens Next?

Model making by Studio Bark

Next Steps In The Bark Journey

After your Site Appraisal, the fun design work can get started! To help you understand how this process will unfold, we’ve developed our Bark Journey visual guide, showing you how we take you on your personal journey to a healthier, more joyful home.

Ready to Get Started?

Billingford modular eco home by Studio Bark Architects
Billingford // Studio Bark

Start Your Project

The Site Appraisal is the most effective way to move from “I wonder if I can…” to “This is what we’re going to build.”

If you’re ready to define your vision and start with confidence, reach out to us at info@studiobark.co.uk. Let’s make a start.

Explore Our Work

Cover Image for Periscope House

Periscope House

Cover Image for Holloway Lightbox

Holloway Lightbox

Cover Image for The Barn

The Barn