If you’ve ever worked with an architect or browsed building advice online, you may have come across the term RIBA Plan of Work.
It sounds technical — and it is an industry standard — but in practice, it’s simply a framework that guides your project from idea to completion in a clear, logical way.
At reWorks, we use the RIBA Plan of Work to structure every project — whether it’s a home renovation, retail fit-out, or sustainable workspace.
It also forms the basis for our fee structure, ensuring transparency and consistency throughout your design journey.
The RIBA Plan of Work is the UK’s standard framework for managing and delivering building projects. Created by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), it divides the design and construction process into eight clear stages, from the first idea through to completion and aftercare.
It’s used by architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to keep projects organised, consistent, and efficient.
Think of it as your project roadmap — it helps everyone stay aligned, make decisions in the right order, and avoid surprises later on.
While the framework is universal, every studio applies it differently.
At ReWorks, we adapt the RIBA stages to suit the scale and sustainability goals of each project — combining structure with creativity.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
Every project begins with a conversation.
We start by understanding why you’re renovating or building — your goals, challenges, and priorities.
This stage helps us define your brief, clarify scope, and prepare a fee proposal tailored to your project’s needs.
We undertake a measured survey of the existing space to create an accurate 3D model.
At the same time, we carry out a reWorks audit using our Retain → Reuse → Reclaim → New framework to identify opportunities for sustainability and efficiency.
This is one of the most important stages in any project — and at reWorks, we dedicate significantly more time and detail here than many traditional studios.
The Concept Design stage is where we translate your ambitions into clear, visual, and tangible possibilities.
Our aim is to make the design process transparent and collaborative — so you can make confident, informed decisions before any permissions or technical work begin.
Here’s what makes this stage different at ReWorks:
By the end of this stage, you’ll have:
This stage sets the foundation for a smoother planning process, more accurate pricing, and a cohesive final outcome.
Stage 3: Spatial Coordination (Planning Drawings)
This stage refines your chosen concept into a coordinated design.
It includes planning drawings, elevations, and design details for submission to your local authority.
We’ll also advise on which additional consultants need to be appointed — such as heritage specialists, ecologists, or structural engineers — and coordinate the information required for a complete submission.
Image: Planning Drawings
Caption: Spatial coordination and planning drawings refine the chosen concept into a cohesive, compliant design.
Alt Text: Planning drawings prepared by reWorks Studio for architectural design coordination and submission under RIBA Plan of Work Stage 3.
Once planning is approved, we prepare the technical drawings and specifications for construction.
This includes liaising and coordinating with other consultants, such as your structural engineer and building control body.
This stage ensures your design complies with Building Regulations and provides the information your contractor needs for accurate pricing.
On residential projects, reWorks can also act as the Principal Designer for RIBA Stages 1–4 under the CDM 2015 Regulations — coordinating health and safety information before issuing the design package to your contractor.
During construction, we can remain involved to monitor progress, answer technical queries, and ensure the design intent is carried through on site.
At handover, we can review the finished works, check key details, and make sure you’re confident using and maintaining your new space.
Good design continues to evolve.
We remain on hand to offer advice — from material maintenance to energy efficiency or future adaptations.
Whether you’re planning a home renovation, extension, or commercial fit-out, the RIBA Plan of Work helps bring order and confidence to what can otherwise feel like a complex process.
At ReWorks, we combine this structure with a human approach — guiding you calmly through every stage so your project feels organised, collaborative, and creative.
If you’d like to understand how this framework could shape your own project, book a consultation with ReWorks.