Posts Tagged ‘ballymena architects’

Ballyronan Project Started on-site

Great to see our project in Ballyronan starting on site.

Architects - @sdsarchitects
Contractor - @nelsonconstructionltd
Engineer -  @jscconsulting

We’re hiring!! Would you like to work with us?

Slemish Design Studio Architects is currently looking for a highly motivated architectural technician/technologist to work on both residential and commercial projects at our Ballymena studio.

The successful candidate will work closely with the practice staff and will initially manage technical design and construction stages, with the potential of working at all stages of our projects.

Required skills and qualities include:

– Good communication skills as part of a team and interacting with clients
– Good working knowledge of NI/RoI Building Regulations and technical detailing experience
– Strong administrative skills
– Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD

Desirable skills and qualities include:

– Previous experience working on high-quality domestic projects
– Experience in 3D visualisations
– Knowledge of SketchUp
– Project Running experience

We offer the opportunity to work in a forward-thinking practice on high-quality projects, with the ability to be involved at all stages of our projects. A competitive salary will be based on the level of experience.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please send your CV and portfolio in PDF format, no larger than 10MB, to office@slemishdesignstudio.co.uk with the subject “Architectural Technician/Technologist”. The deadline for applications is 12 August 2024.

Slemish Design Studio Architects is an equal opportunities employer.

The Architect’s Guide to Designing Your New Build Home

Designing a new build home is an exciting opportunity to create a space that is perfectly designed to your needs and lifestyle. However, it can also be a scary task, with so many factors to consider. Here is a guide to help you through the process, from finding the right architect to making the most of your budget:

1. Choose the right architect

Your architect will be your partner throughout the design and construction process, so it is important to choose someone you trust and who understands your vision. Look for an architect who has experience in designing new build homes and who has a portfolio of work that you admire.

Ireland's top architects
20 of the Best Irish Architects

Belfast Telegraph Residential Architects of the Year

2. Set a budget and time frame

Once you have chosen an architect, you need to set a budget and time frame for your project. Be realistic about how much money you can afford to spend and how long you are willing to wait for your new home to be built.

3. Develop a brief

Your brief will outline your requirements for your new home, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the type of layout you are looking for, and any specific features that you want. The more detailed your brief is, the easier it will be for your architect to design a home that meets your needs.

4. Analyze the site

Your architect will need to analyze the site of your new home to determine factors such as the orientation, lay of the land, and soil conditions. This will help them to design a home that is both affordable to run & enjoy.

5. Create a design

Once your architect has a good understanding of your needs and the site, they will begin to create a design for your new home. This process will involve developing sketches, producing floor plans, and creating 3D models.

Architect working on 3D model of new build home design in Straffan, County Kildare

6. Get planning permission

Once you have agreed on your final design, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local authority. This process can take several months, so it is important to start early.

7. Build your home

Once you have planning permission, you can start building your new home. This process will be managed by your architect and will typically take around 12 months to complete.

Internal build (dining room) of our project in Racavan, Ballymena.
The glazed link looks out towards Slemish Mountain & a new courtyard & pond.

Tips for making the most of your budget

  • Be clear about your budget from the outset and work with your architect to develop an affordable design.
  • Consider using sustainable materials and construction methods, which can save you money on energy bills in the long run.
  • Don’t be afraid to negotiate with suppliers and contractors.
  • Be prepared to make changes to your design if necessary.

Conclusion

Designing a new build home is a complex process, but it can be incredibly rewarding. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly and that you end up with a home that you love.

Additional tips

  • Think about the future when designing your new home. Will you need more space as your family grows? Will you need to make any accessibility modifications as you get older?
  • Consider the sustainability of your home design. Can you incorporate features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and green roofs?
  • Don’t forget about the outdoor spaces. Make sure you have enough room for a garden, patio, or balcony if desired.
  • Finally, don’t be afraid to express your personality in your home design. This is your chance to create a space that is truly unique to you.

should you have a project you’d like to discuss, feel free to contact our office or via our social media channels.

We cover all over Ireland & the UK doing commercial & residential projects.

Architectural stages for a new house

The architectural stages for a new house are the steps involved in designing and building a new home. These stages include:

  1. Preparation and Brief

In this stage, the architect will meet with you to discuss your needs and requirements for your new home. They will also gather information about the site, such as the size, shape, and orientation of the land.

  1. Concept Design

The architect will develop a preliminary design for your home based on your needs and requirements. They will create sketches, computer models, and 3D visualizations of the design.

  1. Spatial Coordination & Planning

The architect will liaise with the local planning authority and relevant consultees to ensure that the design complies with all planning regulations. They will also coordinate the design with other professionals involved in the project, such as engineers and surveyors.

  1. Technical Design – Building Control

The architect will produce detailed plans, sections, and construction details for your home. These drawings will be submitted to the local council for Building Control approval.

  1. Tender drawings and schedules

The architect will produce a set of tender drawings and schedules for your project. These documents will be used by contractors to price the project.

  1. Construction

The construction phase is where your home will be built. The architect will oversee the construction process to ensure that it is completed in accordance with the plans and specifications.

  1. Handover

Once the construction is complete, the architect will hand over your new home to you. They will also provide you with a set of as-built drawings and documentation.

The RSUA architectural stages for a new house provide a comprehensive framework for the design and construction of your home. By working with an architect who is familiar with these stages, you can ensure that your project is completed on time and on budget.

Here are some additional tips for working with an architect:

  • Be clear about your needs and wants.
  • Be prepared to compromise.
  • Be patient.

Building a new home is a big project, but it can be a very rewarding experience. By working with Slemish Design Studio Architects and following our architectural stages, you can ensure that your dream home is a reality.
We work all over Ireland & the UK from extensions in Cork to New builds in Dunfanaghy, along with projects in Manchester & London.

Should you have a project in mind, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or social media.

Thoughts on 2022

As we come to the end of 2022, there is much to reflect on and celebrate.
2022 has seen Joe & I enter our 10th year as an architectural practice.
Something we’re extremely proud of & hope to continue to do what we’re doing for the next 10 years & beyond.

A special thank you goes out to our team, Scott, Mike, Martin and Elaine who have worked as hard as ever this year to keep us at the front of architectural design in Northern Ireland & further afield.
To all our clients, family & friends and everyone else on social media, that continue to support us, we thank you so much for everything

House & Home Magazine put us in their little black book of the top 20 architects in Ireland.
Ulster Tatler published us in their 20th Years of Interiors Top Architects

In October, we won the @Belfasttelegraph Smart home innovation awards for a second time – “The leading smart home architects in Northern Ireland” was how we were described.

Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology: Slemish Design Studio Architects

Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology: Slemish Design Studio Architects

Residential architects award, with 2 times smart home technology award

Residential architects award, with 2 times smart home technology award

Closer to home, see us working on larger commercial projects, along with the bespoke houses and extensions we specialise in.

We’re taking a break from this Thursday and will return to our desks in early January, with any luck, refreshed & ready to start the new year as we finished it.
From Steven, Joe & the rest of our team, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Dunfanaghy House on site

Great to see our project in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal coming along well onsite.

With the recent Lumi Windows installed, that’ll keep the build watertight over these winter months.
hope to be back in spring with more updates.

when the rain stops for a while in Donegal it really is a magical place.

New modern house in Dunfanaghy County Donegal, Ireland

Slemish Design Studio Architects featured in Belfast Telegraph Awards 2022

Slemish Design Studio Architects recognised for Innovative Use of Smart Home Technology

We’re pleased to have been featured in the Belfast Telegraph Business section, being recognised for our innovative use of smart home technology.
With our 2nd award in this category, it was noted that we are Northern Irelands leading experts when it comes to innovative smart home technology.

Modern House in Ballina gains Planning Approval

We’re pleased to have gained planning approval for our client’s project in Ballina, County Mayo

A Modern single-storey stepped home, working with the levels on site, with views from many of the rooms towards Lough Conn & Nephin Mountain.

Michelin Development helps Slemish Design Studio Architects

Michelin Development helps Slemish Design Studio Architects build on 10 years of success.

A County Antrim architectural and planning consultancy is building for future growth as it approaches its tenth anniversary, with support from Michelin Development.

Michelin Development helps Slemish Design Studio Architects build on 10 years of success
Laura McCourt of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Steven Bell of Slemish Design Studio Architects, Noel Mulholland of Michelin Development, and Joe Magill of Slemish Design Studio Architects.

Since its launch in 2012, Slemish Design Studio Architects has built up a following across a national and international client base with its stunning properties, built in harmony with their surroundings across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.


A number of the projects are being specified by clients returning home after years working in locations including Dubai, the Bahamas, Australia and the US.


Spurred on by the lockdown, they have wanted to move back home and bring a blend of luxury inspired by their overseas lifestyles, featuring the natural materials, environment and landscape of the island – and the latest renewable energy techniques.


Founded by Steven Bell and Joe Magill, Slemish Design Studio Architects is located in Raceview Mill, midway between Ballymena and Broughshane.

From there a team of six – including RIBA, RIAI, ARB and RSUA architects and several CIAT members – work in a light and airy studio, featuring a contemporary design that still retains the natural features of the old mill building.

Their passion for innovative, quality design, coupled with personal and attentive customer service, has seen the business plot a strong growth curve.

Joe Magill, who studied architecture at Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Nottingham, said: “We are seeing a trend with people from the length and breadth of Ireland returning back home after living around the world.

“They want homes built in a traditional style, with a contemporary twist.
“We have now worked in 26 of the 32 counties across Ireland to create dream properties of style, substance and sustainability.
“There’s a value in what can be achieved in Ireland, and people are also looking to be closer to their families due to Covid.”

Michelin Development helps Slemish Design Studio Architects build on 10 years of success
Steven Bell of Slemish Design Studio Architects, Noel Mulholland of Michelin Development, and Joe Magill of Slemish Design Studio Architects

To support its growth ambitions, Michelin Development has provided two low-interest loans to Slemish Design Studio Architects, which have been used to support marketing activities and also the purchase of 3D visualisation technology, to bring their ideas to life for clients in a highly engaging and informative way.


Fellow director Steven Bell, said “Michelin Development has really listened to what we need, offered us advice and helped us to grow and thrive.

“The first loan offered a critical boost for the business in terms of our marketing and brand recognition.
“The second has helped us to forge ahead with the 3D technology, which has taken us to the next level in terms of interaction with our clients and suppliers.

“The support has brought surety, and comfort and provided a safety net for us to grow.”

Targeted at manufacturing, engineering or service sector (B2B) businesses with fewer than 250 employees, Michelin Development provides funding and advice to local firms to drive economic growth in areas around where it has or had manufacturing facilities.


The programme supports high-potential, small and medium-sized enterprises in and around County Antrim, excluding Belfast, through services including unsecured, heavily subsidised loans, as well as free, independent and expert advice to pave the way for growth.

Loans of up to £50,000 are available, and they can be used to lever additional funding from other sources.

Michelin Development helps Slemish Design Studio Architects build on 10 years of success
Steven Bell of Slemish Design Studio Architects, Noel Mulholland of Michelin Development, and Joe Magill of Slemish Design Studio Architects


Noel Mulholland, of Michelin Development in County Antrim, said:

“Slemish Design Studio Architects have achieved great things in the last 10 years.
“We are very pleased to have supported them on their growth journey.”


“Michelin Development works closely with other stakeholders, including Mid and East Antrim Council, to ensure a complete package of support is available to help businesses start up and grow in the area.”

To find out more visit www.michelindevelopment.co.uk

Ends

Notes to editors

Michelin, the leading mobility company, is dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility, sustainably;
designing and distributing the most suitable tyres, services and solutions for its client’s needs;
providing digital services, maps and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique
experiences; and developing high-technology materials that serve a variety of industries.

Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 177 countries, has more than 125,000 employees and operates 123 manufacturing facilities which together produced around 200 million tyres in 2021. (www.michelin.com)

About Michelin Development

Michelin Development aims to contribute to the economic regeneration and long-term prosperity of the regions in which its sites are, or were, located. The programme provides an opportunity for Michelin to support the regeneration of the local business community and in particular the creation of quality sustainable jobs.

Interested businesses can apply at www.michelindevelopment.co.uk

Issued on behalf of Michelin by Shepherd PR.
For further information please contact Jane Shepherd – jane@shepherd-pr.com
Telephone +44(0)1538 308685 or +44 (0)7985 129315

Selfbuild live 2022

We’re pleased to say that Slemish Design Studio Architects will be exhibiting at this year’s Selfbuild Live, in the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast.

Setting out our new stand in Hall 2, Stand K2.


Should you wish to come along to discuss your future projects, or indeed your current one, we’ll be about all weekend from Friday 7th October – Sunday 9th October.

The good news for all you Ballymena folk attending is that there are free tickets available… yes you heard that right, free tickets.

click on the link & fill out the information – shorturl.at/CHOS5

See you all there for a packed weekend & if you are feeling generous after getting free tickets, you can buy us a coffee for standing there all weekend 🙂

Carnlough Project progression

Our Carnlough Project has started on site & is progressing well

front elevation of our Carnlough Project facing towards Carnlough Bay

Conversion from first floor flat & ground floor retail space to a new home for our client.

Carnlough Project – This is a redesign of the front with the shop front removed and replaced with two windows and two windows added upstairs.

Upstairs being converted from a 2 bedroom apartment to a living room and kitchen/larder/dining room with a new bathroom and a snug/5th bedroom

the view from the upper living area out to Carnlough Bay

Carnlough has a long history dating back almost 400 years when it had its first harbour, most of it was owned by the Marchioness of Londonderry, Winston Churchill’s Great Grandmother, who built the current harbour and also built Garron Tower in the mid-1800s and early 1900s.

Ownership of the area over the centuries has passed through many hands from Sorley Boy MacDonnell (1500s).
Much to the surprise of our client, when his solicitor sent a copy of the deeds he found the house had previously been owned by Sir Winston Churchill from 1921-47.

It had been left to him along with most of Carnlough by his second cousin who died in an accident.

Churchill then transferred most of the houses to a company owned by the Earl of Antrim in 1947, it is thought he may have visited the village during his ownership on a visit to Northern Ireland.

The Londonderry Arms Hotel has a painting of Churchill and a room named after him.

happy christmas 2014 from slemish design studio

happy christmas 2014 from slemish design studio

We’d like to thank all our clients, friends & family for the great 2014 we’ve had.
Our office is closed from Friday 19th (2pm) – Monday 5th January 2015

we hope you all have a great christmas & happy new year

happy christmas 2014

 

 

check out our social media pages for more information
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Revisiting Rococo Restaurant Ballymena

Rococo Restaurant Ballymena revisited for website photographs

We’ve been out with my friend Ryan, from Ryan Ball Photography taking some pictures of Rococo for our website.
Here’s a few so far of the bar & restaurant in Rococo Ballymena to keep you going so far.
We hope to have them onto our website after the christmas holidays.

click onto Ryans facebook page for more information & other great shots.

 

rococo restaurant ballymena
rococo first floor bar

rococo restaurant ballymena 14
rococo ground floor snug

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ballymena business awards 2014

Slemish Design Studio attended the Ballymena Business Awards 2014 at Tullyglass hotel, Ballymena

Great night with the Michelin PLC (Ballymena) table – meet some great people over the evening & were pleased to come finalists in both Best Premises Award & Most Promising New Business.
congratulations to those that won & well done to all the Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and those involved in a great evening

ballymena business awards 2014

steven joe ballymena business awards 2014 01
Steven & Joe heading to Ballymena Business Awards
steven tracey ballymena business awards 2014
Steven & Tracey (wife) at tullyglass for the Ballymena Business Awards

steven paul cecil ballymena business awards 2014
Steven with Paul & Cecil (Michelin PLC Ballymena) enjoying the evenings craic
.

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teeshan ballymena – new project for sds architects

New project at teeshan ballymena for ballymena architects slemish design studio.
Designing a modern single storey dwelling with fantastic views into Ballymena & surrounding countryside

teeshan ballymena architects
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