Level 3 Flashcards
Tell me about your preparation of the design and specification of a building project from outline proposals to completion of the design and specification process.
- Understanding the Client’s Brief & Requirements
- Outline Proposals (RIBA Stage 2)
- Developed Design (RIBA Stage 3)
- Technical Design & Specification (RIBA Stage 4)
- Pre-Construction Support - Tender Package and COntractor Queries
Talk me through your experience of the specification process including detailed knowledge of the main methods of specification.
Specification Process - Toilet Refurbishment
-I used prescriptive specifications for critical finishes such as floor and wall coverings, selecting Altro non-slip safety flooring and Whiterock hygienic wall cladding, both well-suited to wet environments and easy maintenance.
-I specified exact installation methods and materials, including adhesives and coving details, to ensure hygiene and durability
-For ventilation, I used a performance spec stating airflow rates and noise levels, allowing M&E consultants to propose compliant solutions.
Tools & Delivery
- I used NBS Chorus to structure the document, linked it to technical drawings, and ensured alignment with Part M (accessibility) and Building Regulations.
Outcome
The clear, coordinated specification led to a smooth tender process, minimal RFIs, and timely delivery with no quality issues on handover.
How have you dealt with the design and specification process and its relevance and importance to the procurement and execution of the contract selected for the building works?
On a school staffroom refurbishment using a JCT Minor Works contract, I prepared detailed prescriptive and performance specifications to ensure accurate tendering, quality delivery, and minimal on-site variations
What advice have you provided to clients regarding sustainability issues surrounding the proposals for their building?
Fabric-first approach: Prioritised upgrading insulation, windows, and airtightness to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating demands.
Energy-efficient systems: Recommended LED lighting, smart controls, and where feasible, renewable technologies like air source heat pumps or solar PV.
Regulatory compliance: Guided clients on meeting Part L, Future Homes Standard, and improving EPC ratings, especially in refurbishments.
Lifecycle thinking: Advised on durable, low-maintenance, and recyclable materials to support long-term sustainability.
How have you managed the design process to incorporate design works by others in the specification?
On a primary school refurbishment, the M&E consultant designed the heating upgrade. I referenced their spec within my overall NBS sections, coordinated wall penetrations with structural design, and issued a single, unified tender package to avoid scope gaps.
Millbrook - Modular Can you talk me through some options you reviewed? How did you assess budget? Can you talk me through the advantages and disadvantages of modular construction? What was the outcome of your advice?
Modular v Traditional Build - I advised the client on the option that would meet their requirements and their budget.
Advantages - Speed of Construction, Quality Control, Reduced On-Site Disruption, Sustainability, Cost Predictability
Disadvantages - Design Constraints, Upfront Planning, Transport & Access Issues, Perception & Value
Advised the client that for their budget and the completion date that the Modular route would be suitable.
Evelyn - How did you ensure you accurately recorded the clients brief? Can you talk me through some of the statutory obligations you had to inform your client of? What was the outcome of your discussions with the insulation specialist? What roofing systems did you review and why? How did you go about preparing your tender pack?
*Recording the Client’s Brief
-Held a site meeting and stakeholder interviews to gather user needs.
-Used a structured checklist to capture spatial, accessibility, and thermal comfort requirements.
-Issued a written project brief for client sign-off to confirm understanding and scope.
*Statutory Obligations Advised
-Building Regulations: Advised on Part L (insulation upgrades), Part B (fire compartmentation), and Part M (step-free access and compliant WCs).
-CDM 2015: Informed the client of their duties, ensuring appointment of a Principal Designer and appropriate health and safety planning.
-Asbestos: Recommended a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Reasons for improvement
- Water ingress, Poor thermal performance
Roofing Systems
- Liquid applied or Felt
whatever system was chosen I had to ensure that we upgraded insulation, rainwater goods and drainage.
Insulation
The specalist advised on the specification meet the U-vales
Roof 0.16 W/m²·K Often upgraded with rigid PIR insulation or warm roof overlay.
Walls 0.30 W/m²·K Cladding systems or internal insulated dry-lining often used.
Regulatory: Ensured all stages aligned with Building Regs, DDA, fire safety (Approved Document B), and planning conditions.
Alt Bridge - Can you talk me through the construction of the floor? Why did you advise on hard wearing substrate? What other considerations did you have?
The existing flooring was a timber sprung sports floor which was not suitable for the co-hort of pupils due to the noise. I engaged a flooring specialist who could advise on the most suitable floor covering for a a multi purpose sports hall.
BS EN 14904: Standard for sports flooring systems – ensures compliance for performance and safety (e.g. shock absorption, vertical deformation).
essential to balance performance (shock absorption, ball rebound), maintenance, cost, and versatility for the intended use
