DLM Design has achieved success in the residential field carrying out many varied and interesting projects, for both individual developers, private individuals, local authorities, housing associations, private companies and national house builders. In the majority of projects we are involved from the initial concept whether it be considering the demolition of an existing house and developing a small block of flats or other similar brown field developments through to the larger projects where we may be looking at green field sites and a considerable number of new properties. We have the skill and experience in producing the initial sketch designs and bringing together the necessary team of people from town planners through to highways consultants, structural engineers and other consultants necessary to move the project through the planning process, and even onto detailed building construction stage and where necessary through the contract administration of the project on site.

Through our successful relationships with clients so as Dorset County Council, the Borough of Poole, Borough of Bournemouth, Christchurch Borough Council and Surestart to name but a few, we have been particularly strong in this sector of work. From small upgrades to reception areas through to refurbishments of individual classrooms and year areas of schools through to large school extensions and brand new schools, we have successfully driven many projects through from the initial concept through to the signing of the final certificate after construction on site. All of these projects require careful consideration as they are generally within a live environment and health & safety and welfare of staff and pupils is of primary concern. We have also worked directly with the governors or headmaster of individual schools and assisted in negotiating and liaising with the relevant parties to break larger projects down into smaller projects which sometimes assist the school in a rolling program to suit their budgetary requirements.

DLM Designs good management structure and experience has enabled us to carry out many projects within this commercial sector, whether it be part of a larger mixed development scheme or more simple individual shops, factory units or warehouses for large groups or organisations or private individuals. We are able to assist in suggesting a suitable procurement route and have worked with and will continue to develop its relationships with the relevant parties to follow the Design & Build or Partnering routes and again have great experience in seeing these projects through from the initial conception through to issuing the final certificate after construction on site.

In conjunction with our landscape architect we have been successful in putting together a large number of projects for sport and hockey pitches at many schools throughout Dorset and Hampshire, and have been involved in refurbishments and overhauling leisure facilities both in the education and private sectors. Generally this has involved careful planning and programming and is generally on site where health & safety within a working environment is paramount.

Sometimes there are projects which require careful consideration from the initial concept stage due to the special nature of either the area or the building in which the works are to be carried out. We have carried out works to many properties and within many areas that are covered by restrictions or covenants under the planning laws and our experienced team can provide advice and guidance from an early stage in the project to assist in moving any developments through the planning stages as smoothly as possible. DLM Design won 2 awards for their works within conservation areas in Mudeford on behalf of the RNLI for the creation of a new Lifeboat Station on the quay. We have also been recognised in the media for our works to the Lighthouse Youth Centre situated in a listed building in Christchurch. Whether it be a simple refurbishment or a more comprehensive extension or redevelopment then DLM Design are able to provide the necessary support and design services to meet all the rules and regulations that are imposed by the various authorities and public bodies.

Sometimes DLM Design are fortunate to get projects which might not necessarily fit in any one particular category and may well challenge you a little more than other types of projects do. We have been fortunate to be involved in many projects which have required such input, whether it be for a arts & crafts type house in Lymington or a missed use development in Ferndown or a new Lifeboat Station in Christchurch, we have been able to put together the designs and consultancy team to assist in driving these schemes forward to a successful conclusion. These jobs are not always easy and there are always many hurdles that are put up by various public bodies, but our experience and common sense approach means that we have often been successful where others have been unable to progress.