RIBA Work Stage 3: Developed Design

Every project reaches a point where ideas evolve from exciting concepts into a fully coordinated design that can stand up to technical requirements and planning expectations. At Architecture North, this happens at RIBA Work Stage 3: Developed Design, also referred to in the updated 2019 Plan of Work as Spatial Coordination.

This is where everything begins to come together. The design is not only refined but also prepared for the all-important planning submission.

✏️ From Concept to Developed Design

At this stage, we take the agreed concept from Stage 2 and develop it into a more detailed, fully coordinated design. Drawings and layouts are prepared to a level that demonstrates how the project will function, feel, and perform in real life.

We consider:

• Spatial arrangements – how rooms flow and connect

• Form and appearance – how the building looks within its context

• Technical coordination – ensuring structure, services, and design align seamlessly

At Architecture North, we pride ourselves on working to true scale from the outset. By drawing at 1:1 from early stages, we make sure your design is not only beautiful but also practical and ready to work from the very beginning.

📋 Additional Reports and Requirements

Every site and project comes with its own unique context and requirements. That is why, during our Project Initiation stage, we identify any additional reports or assessments that may be needed for planning. These could include:

• Heritage or conservation reports

• Flood risk assessments

• Design and access statements

• Contextual analysis

By flagging these early, we make sure there are no surprises later and that you fully understand the scope and cost implications of your project from day one.

🏛️ Submitting for Planning Permission

Once the design is fully developed and agreed with you, we prepare the planning drawings and submit your application through the Planning Portal.

Here is how it works:

1. We finalise your developed design drawings.

2. The application is submitted to the local planning authority.

3. The authority checks the documents to ensure they meet validation requirements (this usually takes up to 10 days).

4. Once validated, the application officially enters the planning process.

It is important to note that validation is not approval. Validation simply confirms that all the necessary information has been received so the authority can begin its review.

🌟 Why Stage 3 Matters

Stage 3 is where your vision takes its biggest leap forward. By the end of this stage, you have a design that is inspiring, technically coordinated, and ready for the planning process.

At Architecture North, we guide you through every detail, balancing creativity with technical know-how, so you feel confident your project is moving in the right direction.

🚀 What Comes Next?

Once planning is approved, we move into RIBA Work Stage 4: Technical Design, where drawings are developed in detail for construction and tendering.

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👉 Stay tuned for our next blog, where we will dive into RIBA Work Stage 4: Technical Design.

📞 Got a project in mind? Get in touch with our team at Architecture North and let us help you bring your vision to life.