At Disability Design Specialists the emphasis of quality design is in the level of detail, flair and flamboyance to ensure the adaptation is designed with sufficient care and attention to be functional, aesthetically pleasing and within budget.
Disability Design Specialists collaborate and work together with local chartered architects, engineers, surveyors and quantity surveyors.
Disability Design Specialists are associate members of APIL (Association of Personal Injury Lawyers) and operate nationwide.
Disability Design Specialists was established in 2006 as practitioners of building architecture and arbitrators as consultants for building surveyors that were appointed by local authorities and solicitors to provide architectural services specifically for disabled clients who have applied for Disability Facilities Grants (DFG) partly funded by the government as well as disabled clients who have a need for adaptations to houses funded by claims made by solicitors and personal injury lawyers because of serious accidents and cases of medical negligence etc.
Extensions and Adaptations
As qualified practitioners we offer our services to all types of building work including rear, side and front extensions, loft conversations and provide a comprehensive and complete service.
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Plan of rear extension and adaptations for a bedroom and wetroom on the ground floor for a disabled client in Warwickshire.
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Sectional drawing of a loft conversion and adaptations to a house in Barnet Hertfordshire.
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Plan of rear extension and adaptations for a ground floor bedroom and wetroom for a disabled child in Maidenhead Berkshire.
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Plan of extensions and adaptations for ground floor bedrooms, therapy room and wetroom for a disabled client in Brighton East Sussex.
Our Services
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Property finding, expert witness and accommodation suitability reports
Once the instruction and appointment of our services has been received from the solicitor of the claimant we would consult with estate agents to suggest the most suitable properties available for sale in the preferred locations at or within acceptable price range.
Our qualified chartered architects can act as expert witnesses and prepare reports.
We would then view the properties and report on the feasibility of adapting the property to suit the requirements of the disabled client based on the recommendations of the Occupational Therapist and the Case Manager.
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Full Architectural Services
Measured Survey of existing building.
Conceptual/sketch plans and cost estimates.
Local authority submissions for planning and building regulation approvals.
Detailed specifications and construction drawings to obtain tenders.
Administration and supervision of the contract.
All stages based on the RIBA Plan of Work as published by the Royal Institute of British Architects.
Meet the Team
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Julien Raftopoulos Snr, b.arch/arb.
FOUNDER
Julien Snr. is a practitioner of building architecture and arbitration and has been appointed to settle disputes relating to building contracts.
He began his architectural journey in 1969, working for ‘Manfred Hermer & Grosskopff Architects’ in Johannesburg. He later started his own practice, then worked in England and Greece, acquired a bachelor of architecture degree in 1988 while living in Greece.
Returning to Johannesburg in 1996, he continued designing housing and developments. In 2004, he moved to North London UK, practicing as an architectural consultant and in 2006 consulted for surveyors, focusing on adaptations for disabled people, now providing services to the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, for their DFG (Disabled Facility Grant) applicants as well as private clients and those that require specialist adaptations to their homes.
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Dion Raftopoulos B.A. Hons.
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Dion brings 12 years of experience in web design, graphic design, and brand development to the role, where he oversees creative operations and serves as a brand ambassador. His expertise spans managing all CAD (Computer-Aided Design) responsibilities and executing diverse creative tasks.
With a strong foundation in design and branding, Dion ensures the brand's identity remains consistent and visually compelling across platforms and materials. By crafting and refining design elements with precision, he plays a pivotal role in shaping a cohesive brand image that resonates with the target audience.
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Julien Raftopoulos (Jnr), LLB
BUSINESS AND CONTRACTS CONSULTANT
Julien is a highly experienced professional in the legal industry, with a background that includes working with some of the most prestigious law firms in London and the United States. His extensive legal expertise is now channeled into providing consultancy services to Disability Design Specialists, where he offers strategic guidance on a wide range of issues. Julien advises on building contracts, business best practices, and navigates complex legal matters to help his clients operate smoothly and within the law.
As a graduate of Rhodes University, Julien earned his Bachelor of Laws degree, which laid the foundation for his distinguished career. His deep understanding of legal frameworks, combined with his practical experience, makes him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to navigate the intricacies of the legal landscape.
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Cathy Raftopoulos
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Cathy plays a pivotal role in the property acquisition and interior design aspects of various projects. Her responsibilities extend beyond design, as she also collaborates closely with occupational therapists and case managers to ensure the needs of disabled clients are fully met.
Cathy meticulously oversees the selection, procurement, and installation of necessary equipment, ensuring that everything is supplied and installed according to precise specifications. Her attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction ensure that each project not only meets functional requirements but also achieves a high standard of aesthetic appeal and comfort.
Do You Have A Query?
Contact us and we will prepare a proposal including all fees and costs and walk you through every step of the process.