Consultancy Framework - Architects
Framework Description
Architectural Services is a lot of South East Consortium's Asset & Development Consultancy framework. Appointed architects support projects from inception to completion on site and through the defects period, covering RIBA Plan stages 0 to 7. The lot was awarded on 21 January 2025 and runs until 20 January 2028, with an option to extend by 12 months to a maximum of four years.
Context & Use Case
Public sector clients use it to appoint architects for new build schemes, specific-needs accommodation and high-rise dwellings, as well as low-rise housing and other property types, with advice on structural matters and design solutions along the way. Diagnosing problems in existing buildings is excluded; SEC directs that work to its Multi-Disciplinary Services framework.
Scope of Services
Design and planning of new buildings Specific-needs accommodation design High-rise and low-rise housing projects Advice on structural matters and design solutions Project guidance from RIBA stage 0 to completion Support through the defects period
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
Suits architectural practices with public sector housing and specialist accommodation experience across all RIBA stages. Applications for this lot are closed, so practices not appointed cannot join until it is re-tendered, around 20 January 2028 or a year later if the extension is used.
Buyer Benefits
One appointment can carry a scheme from feasibility to the end of the defects period, so the same team holds the design intent throughout. Buyers also get architects experienced in high-rise and specific-needs housing, where design errors are costly to put right later.
Next Steps
Appointed practices should respond strongly to call-offs and keep SEC members aware of relevant schemes. Others should plan for the re-tender, likely between January 2028 and January 2029 depending on the extension. The last tender weighted cost at 55% and quality at 45%, so sharpen fee proposals and build a portfolio of public housing and specific-needs schemes across every RIBA stage.
How Athena Can Help
Architectural appointments are won on design approach, team and relevant schemes. Athena's bid writers for consultancies help appointed practices present those clearly in call-offs, and our Bid Health Check removes weak or non-compliant answers before they ever reach the evaluator.
For the re-tender, our bid planning and pricing support sets realistic fees, and our framework submissions team prepares the selection evidence, policies and project examples well ahead of the deadline.
