FAQs

‘We have a project in mind but where do we start?’

We offer an initial consultation to talk you through our design process and to give you some initial design ideas. Before approaching us, consider your project:

  • must-haves

  • nice-to-haves

  • budget,

  • Realistic timescale and your

  • ‘Green agenda ‘ (are you looking to achieve a Passivhaus or are you interested in particular renewables?)

‘What is the smallest size project you work on?’

We take on projects of varying scales and enjoy working with design-focused Clients. However, the project value must be considered as it may not be feasible for us to undertake. That said, we believe you can always get something exciting out of every project.

‘Why should I use an architect?’

The title ‘Architect’ is legally protected and can only be used in the UK by individuals listed on the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) Register - www.arb.org.uk.

There is much value we, as Architects can offer given our need to have a broad understanding of so many issues and subjects from planning matters, to construction techniques, through to specific protected species.  We are highly trained, with a vast experience working within the planning process and in the context of many historic buildings. 

We have successfully won planning approval on projects within two National Parks. We have won planning permission on sites where Clients have previously failed to gain permission and we have won a major appeal against the New Forest National Park Authority.  

We have an acclaimed reputation in designing in sensitive and historic locations and across a vast number of conservation areas. Our experience has become specialised in this area and therefore this is the value we can bring to projects.

‘Do we need planning permission?’

The response to this question is project-scope and location specific. Some works can be carried out under Permitted Development Rights (PDR) however in some situations, PDR may not be viable. While the Planning Portal provides a helpful step by step guide on whether planning is required: www.planningportal.co.uk/ your local authority can also confirm the planning history on your property and advise as to whether planning permission is required or not.

‘I know what I want - how can you help me?’

We are not architectural technicians who will draw what you want and tend not to take on highly prescriptive projects. Our job is to provide you with design ideas and alternative ways of achieving your ambitions. We naturally think laterally and enjoy the element of surprise that can come from the design process.

‘My project is in a National Park. What is the impact of this?’

Working within a National Park requires can be challenging. We always need to be sensitive about the impact of the designs we create and ensure we consider neighbouring properties, wildlife and light pollution.

‘Listed buildings, help!’

We would love to! We do not adopt a pastiche approach to such projects but instead create a contemporary response to allow the history of these sites to be read. In relation to heritage conservation projects, we believe in celebrating these sites and modify/adapt/repair them in line with Historic England’s Conservation Principles (historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/conservation-principles-sustainable-management-historic-environment/conservationprinciplespoliciesandguidanceapril08web/)

‘‘What are your fees?’

All fees are tailored to reflect the project brief requirements, site constraints and planning journey. Also any particular complexities in the method of construction or the need to coordinate non-standard construction practices will affect what we charge.

The fees are structured in relation to the RIBA Plan of Work stages: Feasibility, Planning, Tender and Construction.

‘‘What does the initial site visit entail?’

We always visit a site for our the first meeting with a potential Client. This gives us an opportunity to analyse the site and observe any issues that could affect the project’s development. We will discuss potential planning matters as well as provide some initial design ideas and food for thought.

  • Site visit and initial client consultation (this is charged at £125.00 (inc. VAT).

  • Developing the client brief

  • Initial design ideas

  • Planning thoughts and advice on engaging other Consultants

  • Thoughts on timescales.

‘‘How much will the construction cost?’

We are always mindful of the project budget but have a practice standard of having an outline cost plan carried out after the initial feasibility study. Critically, this takes place before the project is submitted for planning permission, which allows us to amend/reduce the size of the proposal prior to any statutory submissions.

A detailed cost plan can be produced by a cost consultant during the detail design stage, when the project specification is more developed.

‘We might not want an architect involved on site’

We understand that clients are on a fixed budget and our involvement throughout is not always possible, however this is an opportunity to ensure our proposals are constructed in line with our detail design information and the quality of the workmanship and end-product is of the high standard we would expect.

We also offer an ad-hoc service whereby we can attend site visits/meetings as and when needed.

‘How long will the whole process take?’

We advise on timescales when we produce our fee proposal letter but timescales will differ depending upon the planning process and the complexity of the project. It should be noted that historic buildings projects, (whether they nationally listed or locally listed) will have a lengthier process.

Design process (varies)

Pre- app assessments can take between 20 and 30 days

The Planning Process is a standard 8 week duration but some projects can take longer

We tend to give Contractors tendering small projects 4 weeks to return their tenders to us

Additional surveys, particularly bat surveys, have their own timescales and a specific time of year in which they can be carried out.

‘What other consultants will be involved with the project?’

  • Topographical/Measured Buildings Surveyor

  • Structural Engineer

  • Services Engineer/Energy Consultant

  • Quantity Surveyor/Cost Consultant

  • Approved Inspector

  • Ecologist

  • Tree Surveyor

  • Planning Consultant

  • Partywall Surveyor

We will always highlight at the initial meeting when any other consultants will be required. 

‘How far away do you work?’

We have had projects located between Devon and Shropshire, however, we are not limited to geographical location.

‘When can you start?’

Clients are often keen to get started and finished as soon as possible. We are a small practice and want to ensure each project is given the time and attention they deserve. We can often get booked up months in advance but we can advise on realistic timescales when we have our initial consultation.

Please do get in touch if you have any questions on our process or would like to discuss a potential project.