Client Design Advisor

The RIBA Client Design Advisor acts as the client’s ‘voice’ in dealing with the design team and the contractor throughout the different project stages.  The aim is to manage the stakeholder process, contribute to the project brief and monitor design development and the construction process.

As an experienced and independent professional, independent of the supply team, the CDA provides the client with sound, impartial advice on critical issues to ensure high standards and best value.  The CDA brings additional certainty and control in achieving a successful procurement process that fully incorporates design quality and sustainability.

It is a requirement that all new and refurbished schools built under the Building Schools for a Future (BSF) Programme have a CDA on board.  The CDA works with the staff, governors, pupils and local community to define their needs and aspirations.

The BRE service takes the form of a registered CDA working within a truly multidisciplinary team that is made up of architects, engineers, environmental consultants and educationalists.

BRE are originators of Building Bulletin information and BREEAM for Schools. BRE’s Building Design Consultancy has extensive experience of acting as client advisor on technical issues, of schools design work and of stakeholder consultation, including with young people.

The CDA Report encapsulates stakeholder consultation and brief development and provides guidance for bidding design and contractual teams. In the case of schools, the report also documents the educational transformation vision.

Your report captures in a very economical but striking fashion the real essence of what we are hoping to achieve. We have found your services invaluable.Steve Smith, Technical Services Director, Belfairs High School