ABOUT US

DTA has established a reputation as having an extensive depth of experience and ability within a wide variety of sectors.

This experience is reflected in the diverse range of projects carried out by members of the practice. Through a network of contacts and partnership ventures, DTA can provide services covering the full range of development activity, from site identification to site supervision in a comprehensive manner that is both cost effective and gives clear value for money. In particular, the practice has extensive experience in private residential development, the procurement of both traditional and design and build developments for housing associations, food sector design, sports & leisure activities, as well as the full range of general architectural activity.

RIAS (Royal Incorporation for Architects in Scotland) Publication :
Why Use a Chartered Architect?

SERVICES

Site Identification
DTA are able to assist clients with their development aspirations by targeting suitable sites. We have identified sites for a range of clients which has led to many successfully completed projects.

Feasibility Studies
We can carry out feasibility studies to establish the suitability of sites to accommodate our client's specific proposals. These studies are not merely architectural investigations, but include the analysis of site constraints and statutory restrictions.

Topographical Surveys
Topographical surveys (also known as land surveys) provide an accurate and detailed representation of a site layout including all physical features above the ground such as roads, street furniture, buildings, tree locations and boundary treatments such as fences and walls.

Measured Surveys
For projects involving existing buildings, DTA can carry out a measured survey, which consists of physical measurements recorded through the combined use of digital laser measures and traditional methods to allow us to produce a set of existing plans, elevations and sections at a recognised scale.

Bespoke Architectural Design
Our practice does not have a single office style or aesthetic. We seek to design each individual project in a bespoke manner to meet our client's specific needs and aspirations within the existing architectural context, whilst respecting the requirements of local planning authorities.

3D Visualisations
DTA can provide 3D visualisations, both internal and external, for projects of any size and scale, which can be used to better understand and present design proposals, to form an important element of planning application submissions and utilised in marketing purposes for developments.

Masterplanning
We are currently involved in large residential masterplanning projects for a number of blue-chip developers. In addition, DTA have been instrumental in the masterplanning of sensitive Conservation Areas and bring the expertise gained from our involvement in a range of projects to ensure that these masterplans are vital and viable exercises.

Planning Advice

  • Planning and Development Strategies

  • Project Co-Ordination

  • Planning Applications

  • Listed Building / Conservation Area Applications

  • Planning Support Statements

  • Appeals and Inquiries

  • Urban Design and Development Frameworks

  • Design Briefs

  • Regeneration Planning

  • Local Development Framework Planning

Building Warrants
DTA have detailed knowledge and understanding of the Scottish Government’s Domestic & Non- Domestic Technical Handbooks, in which all design proposals must comply with. In every project where our practice is appointed to obtain a Building Warrant approval, we ensure that the architectural elements of the submission are dealt with competently and efficiently by our team, with a minimum of fuss for our clients.

Energy Assessment
We can arrange for the provision of a range of services to help your project achieve compliance with regards to energy, including SAP Calculations, SBEM Calculations, RD (Reduced Data) SAP Calculations, Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), Certificate, of Design (Section 6 - Energy), Statements on Energy, uValue Calculations, PSI Value Calculations for Thermal Bridging, Condensation Risk Analysis, Air Tightness Testing, Acoustic Testing, Noise Impact Assessments and Air Quality Testing.

Production Information
DTA are experienced in preparing full construction documentation for projects all of sizes including coordination with other consultants forming part of the design team, such as structural/civil /M&E services engineers etc.

Tender Packages
We offer a service producing a fully comprehensive and detailed set of construction drawings/ information and schedules/specifications etc to a level of detail to obtain a fixed price for the works from contractors.

Procurement
We can advise on the best procurement routes for the building works stage of your project by preparing and compiling tender documents as required, and working alongside a Quantity Surveyor.

Contract Administration
DTA can be appointed to act as contract administrator under a traditional form of building contract by inspecting works on site to ensure compliance with drawings and specifications through to completion of works on site, or alternatively by operating under a design and build or construction management form of contract. We can tailor our services to your exact requirements and will discuss a potential project in detail at the early stages prior to compiling a comprehensive proposal of the services we could provide.

Site Inspections
We can offer a site inspection service for projects requiring Architect’s or Professional Consultants Certificates for mortage lenders under the guidelines outlined in the UK Finance Mortage Lenders (formerly CML - Council of Mortgage Lenders) handbook.

Principal Designer
We can provide Principal Designer services for projects on developments where DTA are involved in an architectural consultancy role. As a client there are certain obligations to ensure that a project is carried out in a particular manner relative to health and safety on site, which is regulated by the Health and Safety Executive. The CDM document download below summarises a client’s duties, however project specific requirements should be discussed with us directly. If you would like to appoint DTA in the role of Principal Designer, we will prepare a separate fee agreement to any other services we are providing on the project.

CDM Guidance for Clients