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POITOU-CHARENTES Tel: +33 (0) 5 49 75 37 70 Email: info@adamsgautier.com |
about us
nicholas adamsNicholas has worked for more than twenty years in Europe and Central Europe and has lived in France for eight years. Working for British investors his projects have ranged in cost from £20K to £40M. For the most part his experience has been with existing buildings many of which have been listed and are of historical, cultural or architectural importance. For the past six years Adams Gautier has been involved in projects covering mid west France including barn conversions, upgrading existing houses, converting farm buildings and creating spaces for commercial use. renovation / conversionsWe have concentrated on renovation projects and conversions however, we have also worked for clients wanting new homes. Since living in France, Nicholas has converted several barns into holiday homes and renovated an old farmhouse carrying out both architectural and much of the building work himself. This gives him a particular understanding of many of our clients’ needs. european experienceBefore moving to France he worked for four years in the Czech Republic where jobs included three medical centres (including two paediatric clinics and a polyclinic for Unicare in Prague) winning a competition to create a care home Headquarters for the Sue Ryder Foundation also in Prague (this was a 15th century monastery now restored and converted to look after 50 residents including a restaurant and shop). In Britain his projects have included residential, commercial, mixed developments and various hotels. Methods of construction have varied from using master craftsmen to fast track system build. Nicholas Adams – BA Hons Arch Oxford Dip PLC Architectural Registration Board No 055178c. D.E.P.O. Ordre d’Architecture Numero Regional 837 Numero National 47797 |
olivier gautierOlivier established an office providing architectural services in Niort in 1996. Coming from a family of master craftsmen and having trained himself as a joiner his attitude towards design is always one of attention to detail. experienceDuring the past 11 years Olivier has built his practice to embrace an impressive list of clients including individual and corporate clients locally and nationally. His projects range from carefully designed and crafted Cathedral doors, one-off houses, offices and shops from Paris to Bordeaux and as far south as the Spanish border. detailHis hard work and attention to detail have led to a term appointment with France telecom in their union with Orange and he and his team are responsible for organising the fast track fit-out of new boutiques up and down the West of France. Another current project is a chateau near Bordeaux which is being renovated with new timber panelling throughout as well as the usual construction and structural issues which come with an old building. "In this setting we have worked with a landscape contractor to alter the flow of a river into the grounds to create a lake at the rear of the chateau – every project is different and each presents its own challenges which we enjoy tackling." Olivier Gautier – Code APE : 742A Activities d’Architecture Profession Liberale Siret No 398 327 437 |
OUR DESIGN APPROACH AND HOW WE CAN HELP YOU
We are a small, dynamic team with design skills and ability to offer pragmatic solutions and management expertise and a varied client list. Our objective is to continue building upon our existing network of professionals to offer an efficient service encompassing a broad range of building types and client needs. We are committed to good design and to its fruition.
design
As we understand it ‘good’ design encompasses rigorously clarifying the clients’ brief by explaining what might be possible in addition to their existing ‘wish list’. We begin with the client and their needs/desires/dreams and of course budget. We take into account the property and all the challenges it poses – where it is positioned, the size and form of the building (or plot) and of course its condition.
landscape
The landscape and other buildings in which the building sits or will sit are taken into account – this is particularly important in areas of outstanding beauty or of historical interest. Consideration of light, wind, sounds, views, rivers and other topography are all part of the design process.
building use
Clients spend some time with Nicholas discussing their ideas and how they plan to use the building, if it is to be a full time home or holiday cottage or a commercial enterprise. All this is taken into account before pen goes to paper. We have developed a method of working to show furniture layouts and lighting as the scheme is discussed at a larger scale to help you understand the spaces being created. When you are happy with this schematic stage we prepare the actual permit for your final approval.
renewable energy/grants
A growing demand for renewable energy solutions has led to several projects using geothermic heat pumps with under floor heating, solar energy and wood burning devices. We can also help you understand some of the grants available for renewable energy. Aside from these more obvious solutions we explore strategic zoning, the optimum use of space and ambient temperatures and intelligent electrical switching as well as passive solar issues which cost nothing or very little in relation to the carbon emission cost of production as well as economic costs to the investor.
Further information
For more information regarding renewable energy in France follow these links – ADEME, Promolotec and eklor.
Once the design has been finalised with the client the process of making the building come to life begins. This stage is explored in more detail on the How Long page.
NETWORK
Our work during the past eight years and Olivier’s experience during his 11 years in business have allowed us to forge links with a number of local specialists including:
- Structural engineers – specialist contractors to install and guarantee foundations.
- Mechanical and electrical engineers – including air conditioning expertise /heating specialists solar, underfloor, heat pump, solid fuel systems, electric with installation grant aid etc.
- Civil engineers – we have in-house civil engineering expertise.
- Landscape consultants
- Specialist constructors – swimming pools / joinery / masonry / metalwork
Interior design – in-house
Part of the practice is committed to an interior design service that at present has commissions in Paris and Bordeaux as well as more local projects.
Cost Consultants – in-house
We are able to produce detailed ‘bills of quantities’ – this is a dossier to be used in negotiation with registered artisans using good practice to itemise work. It is used with a set of drawings (for example electrical layouts), proposals and prices from the artisans.
Maitre d’oeuvre – project management – in-house
There is a large technical library at our disposal at one of our offices in Niort.
HOW LONG WILL THIS ALL TAKE
We are aware clients are keen to take possession of their dream homes it must be noted that buying abroad, and particularly having renovation or other building works carried out when not in the country does pose special problems. We do our best to push things on as fast as possible but this is France and speed is not always of the essence! Modes of communication need to be agreed and adhered to and clients need to understand they also have a responsibility towards the architect. This is often a large investment for our clients and we want it to be successful and enjoyable which means dedicated input from both parties.
Most projects can be divided into three stages.
stage a
Schematic – one to three months – this depends on how well prepared the client is and the nature and size of the project. We establish a working brief with the client – this period is intensive and a good result relies on a clear understanding of the clients’ expectations and our local practical knowledge. Quality expectations and budget play a large role from the very beginning. It is important the client is available to spend time with Nicholas at this stage as this is when the form of the project takes shape and a good working relationship can be established which will allow for the successful completion of the works.
This stage is completed with the preparation of a scheme ready to be submitted for either: a declaration to the local commune or a construction permit via the local commune and department prefecture.
stage b
Paper Work – two to three months – the permit process and the building specification document used for negotiating prices from artisans. (this may take place during the permit process assuming there are no fundamental changes). To obtain prices from artisans or a builder and to avoid later discussions/surprises it is essential to set down a list of items clarifying quality and quantity. This does not need to be a bulky document and can be efficiently cross-referenced to plans and elevations so artisans and project managers can understand the scheme. It also means that obtaining additional quotes is a simple matter.
stage c
Work on Site – Having signed the contractural documents the missing link is the Programme. There are two possible paths during this stage. One is to use a building firm who will coordinate all works, the other is to employ a series of artisans. The builder will charge more but will be responsible for the project. Using individual artisans will be cheaper and may allow for the use of more specialised workers - but each artisan is responsible only for their work.
Naturally there are stories of artisans failing to appear, not clearing up etc (just like in the UK) but problems are sometimes caused by unclear instructions given by the investor (client) and poorly planned or programmed projects. Money may often be saved by having a project properly designed and programmed and there are the additional benefits of the design experience offered by the team which can lead to surprising solutions to complicated briefs – and this is not just true for large projects. Smaller buildings are often more difficult to get right.
If you do choose to go down the artisan only route you will need a manager unless you have some experience in the field, speak fluent French and are able to visit site frequently. We are able to offer this service as part of the process and as authors of the project in our opinion this is more efficient.
HOW MUCH WILL IT ALL COST?
Our expertise and experience ensures that we will save you more than we charge you to carry out your project.
COST PLANNING BUILDING PROJECTS
We offer a service for you to understand the approximate investment figures. This is an outline report based upon the scheme drawings and an outline schematic specification before stage B noted below. Our charges for this are based upon the nature of the project but begin at 600 Euros for a straightforward 120m square barn conversion.
ARCHITECTURAL FEES
If this is too much to take in please do ring to discuss.
Fees split into three different services:
- schematic /building permit * note for complicated situations it might be necessary for us to carry out a detailed measured survey in addition to the fee scale – see surveys
- Specification documentation/quotations
- overseeing work on site
Normally there is a sliding fee scale depending on the size of the project and its’ complexity. We will refer to this when you are able to explain your project in broad terms.
Because there is a lot of demand for projects between 60K Euros and 350K Euros we have decided to organise a service which allows us to efficiently adapt our usual approach for larger projects.
Example 1 : Planning permit Stage A only for a 3 / 4 bed barn conversion would be in the region of 2500 to 4000 Euros. Because we are often asked to only be involved in the planning for the lower budget projects so that clients can do the building work on their own we provide information which would enable a proficient contractor/owner to set out the scheme with specific dimensions for windows, walls etc
Example 2 : planning permit Stage A only for a new house with a local vernacular and straightforward brief would be in the region of 4,000 to 5,500 Euros. We urge our clients in this situation to use a specification document which is the next stage B to be absolutely clear about what the contractor is pricing for and what will be expected in terms of sanitary ware, kitchen fittings, lighting, internal finishes, window/shutters, heating system etc. This together with the plans/elevations becomes the basis of the contractural documentation.
Stage B costs approximately the same as Stage A. Stage C is calculated during Stage B as the scope of work and number of artisans involved becomes apparent.
We ask for a payment of 350 Euros at the first meeting as a dossier commencement fee. This is deducted from the Stage A payment if we are instructed to proceed.
If you require a planning permit only but need occasional advice in addition we charge 69 Euros an hour.
Rates for surveys
Please explain your specific requirements, describe in general the type of building: location, size in square metres, approximate age and attach two or three photos if possible. We are then able to reply with a quotation.
VAT (TVA) is charged at the current rate in addition to these fees. For further information about TVA in France please consult a specialist. The rate varies according to the type of work carried out and is fluid at the moment as the French government is in the process of changing the entire TVA system.
Travel rate = 0.65 Euros/km
HOW FAR DO WE TRAVEL?
At present we have projects (each at more than 300K Euros) in Paris, Bordeaux, the Spanish border and Toulouse.
For the most part our area is Mid and West France.
We would normally travel up to 100kms from Niort for projects with a construction budget of between 50k Euros to 100K Euros. For projects further afield and with a higher budget please contact us to discuss practicalities. We can team up with other professionals locally.
CONTACTING ADAMSGAUTIER
| Phone: | 00 33 (0) 6 78 05 48 90 (Mobile) 00 33 (0) 5 49 75 37 70 during office hours (French time 9am to 6pm) |
| Email: | info@adamsgautier.com |
| Post: | Nicholas Adams adamsgautier 22 avenue Jacques Bujault 79000 Niort France |
To optimise the process please be clear about your budget, programme and expectations.
At the beginning of a project we charge a commencement fee €350 (Euros) to prepare your dossier and understand and note the basis of the project.
In an effort to minimise our fees and to offer a better service we need to obtain as much information as possible from the client at our first meeting. That means a photographic survey of the project, a cadastral plan and any other plans that the client or agent may have or know about, basic site dimensions and any legal constraints on the property. This information should also include your thoughts, desires and needs which could be a descriptive narrative and/or a pictorial file which you have built up using images of furniture / kitchens / gardens / floors and wall finishes etc.
We look forward to working with you to realise your project.
QUESTIONNAIRE
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Thank you for filling in the questionnaire. We will get in touch with you as soon as we have read through your information.
Regards
adamsgautier
CONTACT DETAILS
PROJECTS
Barn Renovation
Complete barn renovation using local artisans to create oak screens and a bespoke oak staircase as part of the entrance.
Interiors
Images of varied design work. Part of the team is devoted to interiors. These designers are referred to as interior architects, French qualified to understand construction details as well as aesthetics.
Landscaping
House transformation and barn conversion with strategic landscaping including a solar heated swimming pool. Work is still in progress on this project.
Conversion
Stunning conversion of a 17th century barn creating a contemporary home. With an internal bridge linking first floor spaces to a modern balcony overlooking spectacular views. This received a commendation from the chief architect of the region. The project incorporates energy efficient geothermic energy with under-floor heating.
Swimming Pools
Our experience encompasses the following - bespoke child friendly pools, solar heating, salt water treatment, geothermic heating, various types of construction for differing budgets, landscape issues and AFNOR safety requirements.
Protecting
Work in progress to transform a 16th century pigeonnier into modern living spaces with under-floor heating. This property is set in extensive grounds and great attention is being directed at protecting its quality and charm.
Conservation Area
House renovation in a conservation area opposite a 13th century church. This project has continued into phase two to renovate an adjoining barn. We also obtained permission for a swimming pool in this sensitive setting.
Steel Structure
A huge barn conversion with wonderful open spaces. Great attention has been given to fusing new and old to create a backdrop for large pieces of contemporary art. To achieve this a steel structure has been designed to support the original oak trusses.
Miscellaneous
Modern glazed link between an old house and barn; a new single storey house; bespoke timber truss; 15th century hunting lodge stone extension in the Loire Valley; Stone façade; hardwood glazed doors;