Understanding the RIBA Plan of Work: A Simple Guide for Homeowners and Clients

If you’re planning to design and build a home or carry out a major renovation, you may have heard of the RIBA Plan of Work - but what exactly is it, and why does it matter to your project?

In simple terms, the RIBA Plan of Work is the UK’s most widely used framework for managing the planning, design, and construction process. Developed by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), it breaks down a project into clearly defined stages - from the initial idea to post-completion care.

While architectural design companies use this structure every day, it can feel a little complex for clients. That’s why we’ve created this introductory guide: to walk you through each stage in plain English, showing where your input is needed, what to expect from the company you have chosen, and how your project progresses from concept to completion.

Why the RIBA Plan of Work Matters

The RIBA Plan of Work helps ensure your project is well-organised, sustainable, and delivers the outcome you envision. The most recent version (2020) includes a strong focus on sustainability, with every project encouraged to aim for net-zero carbon by 2030.

Each stage in the plan comes with its own key decisions, deliverables, and team involvement. Whether you're commissioning a new-build home or renovating a listed property, understanding these steps can help you feel confident and empowered throughout the journey.

The 7 Stages of the RIBA Plan of Work (2020)

1. Stage 0 – Strategic Definition

2. Stage 1 – Preparation and Briefing

3. Stage 2 – Concept Design

4. Stage 3 – Spatial Coordination

5. Stage 4 – Technical Design

6. Stage 5 – Manufacturing and Construction

7. Stage 6 – Handover

8. Stage 7 – Use

   
   

Let’s explore what each stage involves.

Stage 0: Strategic Definition

This is the ‘big picture’ phase. Before any design begins, your architectural design company helps define the scope of the project:

• What do you want to achieve?

• What are the key drivers — budget, time, quality, or sustainability?

• Is this best delivered through a new build, a refurbishment, or a hybrid?

  
  

At this stage, you’re also exploring whether the company is the right fit, looking at their portfolio and discussing early ideas.

This stage sets the tone for the entire project and starts to shape the vision.

Stage 1: Preparation and Briefing

Now that the goals are clear, your designer works with you to draft a Project Brief and Business Case. This might include:

• Feasibility studies and site surveys

• Initial cost and risk assessments

• Discussion of planning policies and sustainability objectives

This is also when the project team starts to form, including consultants if needed.

Early conversations with your local planning authority often happen here to guide the design before formal applications.

Stage 2: Concept Design

Here’s where the ideas come to life.

Using the brief, your architectural design team begins sketching early design concepts. You’ll start to see:

• Layouts, materials, and moodboards

• Sustainability strategies

• Structural or services ideas

Workshops and meetings help shape and refine the vision. By the end of Stage 2, you'll have a strong idea of what your future space could look like.

Stage 3: Spatial Coordination

Design moves from concept to detailed drawings. Your architectural design team now coordinates with engineers and consultants to ensure the design works in reality - structurally, spatially, and financially.

At this point, you typically submit your planning application, which may include:

• Location and site plans

• Design and Access Statement (for listed or sensitive sites)

• Heritage or environmental assessments

This is a collaborative and iterative process — designs evolve while staying anchored to your brief.

Stage 4: Technical Design

The detailed construction drawings are prepared. These include:

• Technical specifications

• Building Regulation submissions

• Materials, finishes, and structural detailing

If you’re tendering to contractors, this stage produces everything they need to provide accurate pricing.

Specialist subcontractors (like glazing or joinery experts) may also be consulted at this stage.

Stage 5: Manufacturing and Construction

The build begins!

Your architectural design company may act as Contract Administrator, helping you manage:

• Site inspections

• Contractor queries

• Payment certificates

• Variation instructions

At this point, the contractor takes control of the site, and your design starts to take physical shape.

Your architectural design team remains involved to ensure everything is built as planned.

Stage 6: Handover

Construction is complete, and the building is handed over. The contractor rectifies any final defects, and the architectural desgn team issues the final certificate.

The Defects Liability Period begins (usually 6–12 months), during which the contractor is responsible for correcting any issues.

Stage 7: Use

After you’ve moved in, this stage focuses on aftercare and optimisation. Your architectural design team may help with:

• Maintenance advice

• Post-occupancy evaluation

• Energy monitoring

• Future adaptations

This is also a great time to give feedback — your experience informs future projects and innovations.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Whether you're planning a HMO conversion, a Commercial to Residential project , or a residential upgrade, we can guide you through every step of the RIBA Plan of Work - making the process simple, clear, and enjoyable.

Book a meeting with us by clicking here or send us a email at: info@maine-blueprints.com