Understanding the RIBA Stages of Work: A Guide for Homeowners Planning a Building Project
If you’re considering a building project - whether a home extension, refurbishment, or even a new build, you’ve probably come across architects mentioning “RIBA stages” as part of the process. But what does this actually mean? And why is it important for your project?
The RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Plan of Work is the industry-standard framework that architects use to guide projects from concept to completion. It breaks the process down into clear stages, ensuring that every aspect of your project is carefully considered and managed. This structure helps keep things organised and avoids costly mistakes.
At Nancy Gouldstone Architects, we follow the RIBA framework but simplify it into three distinct NGA Stages (A, B, and C) that align more naturally with residential projects. These reflect the key phases homeowners typically experience:
Stage A: Pre-Construction & Planning (RIBA Stages 0–3) – Concept development, feasibility studies, planning permissions, and early design work.
Stage B: Detailed Design & Pre-Build Preparation (RIBA Stage 4) – Full technical design, building regulations, tendering, and contract administration before construction begins.
Stage C: Construction & Completion (RIBA Stages 5–7) – Managing the build, overseeing quality on-site, and ensuring a smooth handover.
This structure provides clarity for our clients, ensuring a seamless journey from first ideas to moving into your finished home. Below, we break down how the traditional RIBA stages fit within our streamlined approach.
The RIBA Plan of Work
The RIBA Plan of Work (and How It Relates to NGA Stages)
Stage 0: Strategic Definition (NGA Stage A – Pre-Construction & Planning)
Before any design work begins, we define the project’s objectives. This includes understanding what you want to achieve—whether it’s adding space, improving natural light, or maximising your home’s value. We also assess feasibility, potential planning constraints, and whether additional surveys or reports are required.
Stage 1: Preparation and Brief (NGA Stage A – Pre-Construction & Planning)
This is where your ideas start to take shape. We work closely with you to develop a clear brief, outlining your needs, budget, and design preferences. Initial site surveys are carried out, and we start discussions with relevant consultants. If planning permission is required, we identify key considerations early on.
Ashdown Forest house - Concept model & visualisation (NGA Stage A, RIBA stages 0-2)
Stage 2: Concept Design (NGA Stage A – Pre-Construction & Planning)
Now, the design process begins. We explore different design options, considering your requirements, site constraints, and planning policies. By the end of this stage, you will have a developed concept supported by sketches and plans, along with an initial cost estimate.
Stage 3: Developed Design (NGA Stage A – Pre-Construction & Planning)
At this stage, the preferred design is refined in more detail. We coordinate structural, mechanical, and electrical aspects and integrate specialist input such as lighting or sustainability consultants. If planning permission is required, we prepare and submit the application, liaising with the local authority.
Stage 4: Technical Design (NGA Stage B – Detailed Design & Pre-Build Preparation)
This is where your project becomes fully detailed and ready for construction. We prepare comprehensive technical drawings and specifications for building regulations compliance and tendering to contractors. This stage also includes the contract package, which sets out roles, responsibilities, and legal agreements before work starts on site.
Stage 5: Construction (NGA Stage C – Construction & Completion)
With a contractor appointed, the project moves on-site. As your architect, we remain involved to oversee the construction, answer queries, and ensure the design intent is followed. Regular site visits and meetings keep the project on track, and we assist in resolving any unforeseen issues.
Stage 6: Handover and Close-Out (NGA Stage C – Construction & Completion)
The project reaches completion, and you move into your newly finished space. We conduct final inspections, address any snagging, and provide all necessary documentation, including warranties and maintenance guidance.
Stage 7: In Use (NGA Stage C – Construction & Completion & Retention Period)
Although construction is complete, this stage is about the long-term performance of your home and the period stated within the contract called the ‘Retention’ period of ‘Latent defects period’. The retention period ensures that any final contractor obligations are fulfilled.This is usually set at 6 months or 12 months depending on the complexity or size of the project. This allows for the project to settle and for any hidden or ‘latent’ defects to become evident, things like leaking plumbing or electrical items or plasterwork that has moved. During this period, the contract has an obligation under the contract to remedy any defects (not wear and tear). At the end of the 12 months, the contractor will be due their retention sum which relates to 2.5% of the contract value back once they have fixed all defects to the satisfaction of the contract administrator and architect. After this point the Final Completion certificate is issued.
Why We Use NGA Stages (A, B, C) for Residential Projects
While the RIBA Stages provide an excellent framework, we find that breaking it down into three clear NGA Stages helps homeowners better understand the journey:
Pre-Construction & Planning (Stage A): All feasibility, concept, and planning work before technical design.
Detailed Design & Pre-Build (Stage B): Everything needed to finalise technical details, obtain approvals, and prepare for construction.
Construction & Completion (Stage C): Managing the build, ensuring quality, and providing post-completion support during the retention period.
By structuring our process this way, we make it easier for clients to see what’s coming next, when key decisions need to be made, and how different phases of their project interconnect.
Why Choose a Chartered RIBA Practice?
As a RIBA-chartered practice, Nancy Gouldstone Architects adheres to the highest professional standards set by the Royal Institute of British Architects. This means we follow rigorous codes of conduct, maintain continual professional development, and ensure our designs meet best-practice guidelines. Working with a RIBA-accredited firm provides you with confidence in the quality, expertise, and integrity of our service - ensuring that every stage of your project is managed with precision and care.
Why the RIBA Stages Matter
Understanding the RIBA stages helps demystify the process and gives you confidence in how your project will be managed. It ensures a logical progression from ideas to a finished building, with clear milestones along the way. By following this structured approach, we can minimise risks, control costs, and deliver a beautifully designed space tailored to your needs.
If you’re planning a project and would like to discuss how we can guide you through the RIBA stages, feel free to get in touch. We’d be happy to help bring your vision to life with a well-structured and professionally managed process.