What is an Architectural Feasibility Study?
An architectural feasibility study or analysis is the way we look at a potential new project as a whole. Carrying out this study will enable us to work out whether it’s possible and practical to achieve our clients’ wishes.
The purpose of an architectural feasibility study
A feasibility study is carried out by our architects before a large project starts, or before the site or building is purchased. It is a way of assessing if the project or development can be successfully built within the budget and site space available.
Not every project needs a feasibility study. For example, a side extension or loft conversion may be quite straightforward, and our teams will have the necessary experience and knowledge to begin the planning and design processes without such a study.
Larger projects, such as new builds, major changes or refurbishments to existing houses, or converting a single dwelling into apartments, are more complex and may therefore need a feasibility study. Feasibility analysis is an overview of the proposals and desired outcome, and it would be our job as the architects to say if the project can be achieved.
For our team, the feasibility study also serves to reveal if additional consultants or experts will need to be involved. It also helps us to get a realistic view of the time scale and to determine that we are confident of meeting our clients’ expectations. Get in touch with us to find out whether your project might need a feasibility study.
What are the key components of an architectural feasibility study?
Here’s a snapshot of the elements we would consider within a typical study:
Regulatory compliance
Site analysis
Technical feasibility
Environmental impact
Market analysis
Cost estimation
Risk Management
Concept design
Financial analysis
Risk assessment
Construction methodology
The implications of a feasibility study
The study will look at the effects the project will have on neighbours or other interested parties who may be affected by a major build taking place in close proximity. The study is also carried out to ensure that it is indeed possible to design and build that project on the land available.
A feasibility study would be undertaken to predict potential difficulties and then to suggest solutions that would avoid conflict. The study could involve conversations with experts, local planning officers, immediate neighbours of the property concerned and other interested parties.
Our architects will also take into consideration whether Listed building consent will be required, in the case of the property itself being Listed. The study will also look at matters such as utilities access and availability, and the potential issues of noise and disturbance during the build period.
When is a feasibility study carried out?
If the land or property under consideration is yet to be purchased, the study would be carried out before purchase. This is to assure the potential purchasers that their vision for the project is achievable, both practically and financially.
For a big refurbishment project where the home is already owned by the client, the study becomes a guide to exactly what needs to be done to achieve the client’s vision. It allows for decisions to be made regarding finance, time scale and essentially, whether the idea is realistic.
The purpose of a feasibility study is to present the overall aim of the project in a clear and concise format whilst addressing any potential issues and offering solutions or alternatives. The study will also be relevant to the planning authority and can be included in a request for pre-application advice regarding Planning Permission.
The JLE Studio expert view
A feasibility study - or feasibility analysis as it’s also known - aims to allow the best use to be made of any home, site or building. Our architects have the knowledge and insight to be able to work with both existing and potential clients to maximise the potential of the project or site. Read more about our technical and planning services here and get in touch today to discuss your project.