FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Clear, honest answers to help you plan your project with confidence.

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01 Getting Started 02 Design & Architectural Process 03 Planning Permission & Approval 04 Building Regulations 05 Costs , Fees & Values 06 Timelines 01 Getting Started 02 Design & Architectural Process 03 Planning Permission & Approval 04 Building Regulations 05 Costs , Fees & Values 06 Timelines

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SECTION 1

Getting Started

Beginning your architectural journey can feel daunting. Here we address the foundational questions that every homeowner asks when considering a project.

Whether you need planning permission depends on the type, size, and location of your project. Many home improvements fall under Permitted Development rights, but projects in conservation areas, listed buildings, or larger extensions typically require formal approval.

Read more about planning permission

We’re a full-service architectural practice specialising in residential projects. Unlike drafting services, we provide comprehensive design expertise, planning strategy, and project coordination—ensuring your project is thoughtfully designed and professionally managed from start to finish.
An architect brings design expertise, technical knowledge, and project management skills that can save you time, money, and stress. For anything beyond simple cosmetic changes, professional architectural input helps maximise your home’s potential while navigating complex regulations.

Get in touch for a free initial consultation. We’ll discuss your ideas, assess feasibility, and explain our process—no obligation, just a chance to see if we’re the right fit.

Book your free consultation

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SECTION 2

Design & Architectural Process

Design is a collaborative journey. Understanding our process helps you engage meaningfully at every stage, from initial sketches to final specifications.

We offer comprehensive measured surveys conducted by our team, or you can provide your own measurements using our guidance. Our surveys capture all necessary dimensions, levels, and existing conditions to ensure accurate design development.
Absolutely. Design is a collaborative process, and we encourage feedback. Our packages include revision rounds where we refine the designs based on your input until you’re completely satisfied with the proposals.
Final drawings are delivered digitally as high-quality PDFs, suitable for planning submissions and construction. We can also provide printed copies if required. All drawings remain accessible through your client portal.
Yes, we offer interior design as part of our comprehensive service. From spatial planning and material selection to furniture layouts and lighting design, we can help create cohesive interiors that complement your architectural vision.

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SECTION 3

Planning Permission & Approval

The UK planning system can seem complex, but understanding its principles gives you confidence. We demystify the process and explain your options clearly.

Permitted Development (PD) rights allow certain building works without formal planning permission. These rights cover many extensions, loft conversions, and outbuildings—subject to specific size limits and conditions that vary by property type and location.

Read more about Permitted Development

Single-storey rear extensions can often be built under Permitted Development. Key limits include maximum depth (3m for attached houses, 4m for detached), maximum height (4m), and eaves restrictions. Prior approval may be needed for larger extensions.
Two-storey extensions have stricter limits than single-storey. They typically can’t extend more than 3m from the original rear wall, must be at least 7m from the rear boundary, and cannot be built within 2m of a side boundary.
Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development, adding up to 40-50 cubic metres depending on your property type. Restrictions apply to roof height increases, front-facing dormers, and properties in designated areas.
Most porches don’t need planning permission if they’re under 3 square metres, less than 3m high, and more than 2m from any boundary facing a highway. Listed buildings and some conservation areas may have different requirements.
Outbuildings like garden offices, gyms, and studios often fall under Permitted Development. Key rules include height limits (2.5m near boundaries, 4m otherwise), coverage restrictions, and the requirement that they’re not used as separate dwellings.
Conservation areas have additional restrictions to protect local character. Permitted Development rights are reduced, and proposals must demonstrate sensitivity to the area’s historic significance. We have extensive experience securing approvals in these settings.
Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent for most alterations, both internal and external. The process is more rigorous, focusing on preserving historic significance. We work closely with conservation officers to develop sensitive, approvable proposals.
If work has been carried out without necessary permissions, you may need to apply retrospectively. While approval isn’t guaranteed, we can help assess your situation and prepare the strongest possible application to regularise unauthorised works.

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SECTION 4

Building Regulations

The UK planning system can seem complex, but understanding its principles gives you confidence. We demystify the process and explain your options clearly.

Most construction work requires Building Regulations approval, separate from planning permission. This ensures your project meets safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency standards. We can advise which works require approval and coordinate the process.
Building Regulations are legal standards covering structural safety, fire protection, ventilation, drainage, energy efficiency, and accessibility. They apply to new buildings, extensions, and many alterations to ensure safe, healthy, and sustainable construction.
Some minor works are exempt, including certain small porches, conservatories, carports, and like-for-like replacements. However, the exemptions have specific conditions—we recommend checking before assuming any work is exempt.

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SECTION 5

Costs, Fees & Value

The UK planning system can seem complex, but understanding its principles gives you confidence. We demystify the process and explain your options clearly.

Turn-key means we manage everything—design through to completion—delivering a finished home. Design & build typically involves a contractor managing construction with integrated design services. We explain both approaches to help you choose what’s right for your project.
Our fees are transparent and typically fixed-price, based on project scope and complexity. We provide detailed proposals so you know exactly what’s included. This approach means no surprises and allows you to budget with confidence.
Interior designers bring expertise in spatial planning, materials, colours, lighting, and furniture selection. They create cohesive schemes that enhance how spaces feel and function—often uncovering possibilities you hadn’t considered.

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SECTION 6

Timelines & Project Stages

Good projects take time. Understanding the typical timeline helps set realistic expectations and ensures nothing is rushed.

Standard planning applications typically take 8 weeks for a decision, though more complex cases may take longer. We manage the entire process, including pre-application discussions where beneficial, to maximise your chances of a smooth approval.
We handle all council communications on your behalf, from pre-application enquiries to formal submissions and any follow-up negotiations. Our relationships with local planning departments help us anticipate requirements and address concerns proactively.
Projects typically progress through initial consultation, feasibility study, concept design, planning application, detailed design, Building Regulations, tender process, and construction. We guide you through each stage, explaining what’s involved and what to expect.
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