Frequently asked Questions

The primary difference is that an architect is a regulated (by the ARB) professional who has passed rigorous exams and training and holds specific credentials, whereas an Architectural Designer is an unregulated role without legal requirements to be registered.

Ideally as early as possible. We can help shape the brief test ideas and advise on feasibility before significant costs are incurred.

Our architectural skills and experience enable us to undertake a wide range of projects with the same rigorous approach. Within the office we have significant experience in working with buildings in the historic environment including many listed buildings in sensitive locations.

Projects follow a series of stages based on the RIBA Plan of Work: Preparation and Brief, Concept Design, Spatial Coordination, Technical Design, and Construction. We guide you through each stage and explain what decisions are needed and when. You can find more about the process here.

Certainly, this is the preferred method as it tends to produce the best outcomes and most satisfied clients. However, clients may appoint us for the full service or specific stages. We are happy to discuss the most appropriate approach for your project.

Yes. The process is collaborative. Our role is to guide, test, and refine ideas, but the brief and decisions come from an ongoing dialogue with our clients.

Not all projects require a formal application. Some fall under Permitted Development but many require a planning application such as a Householder Planning Application or a Listed Building Consent Application. We will advise you at the outset and may suggest appointing a qualified Planning Consultant for more complex projects which would benefit from their experience and expertise.

Yes. We are well placed to act as your agent during the planning process. For more complex projects we would advise appointing a planning consultant. We have a good relationship with the local planning authorities we work within which helps us identify and resolve any issues early.

Yes. We have extensive experience working with historic buildings and sensitive contexts, where a careful and honest approach is essential.

It is inherent in how we design rather than an add-on. We consider orientation, materials, construction methods, and longevity from the outset.

Fees are usually agreed as time charge based on the amount of time spent on the project (and we can give an approximation of how long each stage could take, although of course this could be subject to change), fixed sum for defined stages, or as a percentage of the construction cost, depending on the project. We aim to be clear and transparent from the outset.

In addition to our fees, you should allow for survey costs, Local Authority fees (Planning and Building Regulations), consultant fees (such as structural engineers), and construction costs. Oh and don't forget VAT!

We can help you understand these early on (although we will be able to provide a guide, we will be unable to provide detailed construction costs). If more cost certainty is required we always suggest seeking the advice of a Quantity Surveyor.

By addressing cost from the beginning. We design with construction in mind - simple forms, appropriate materials, and clear detailing.

We prioritise simplicity, honest use of materials, and well-made buildings. The aim is not to impose a style, but to respond appropriately to the place, the brief, and the people using it.

Yes, where useful. We use drawings, sketches, and 3D visualisations to communicate ideas clearly.

This depends on the size of the project and how long it takes for the client to make decisions, amongst other things. After our initial meeting a timeframe can be outlined.

We can act as Contract Administrator during construction, helping to manage the process, review progress, and deal with issues as they arise.

Yes. We can advise on suitable contractors and manage a tender process if required.

Changes are a normal part of construction. We help assess the implications, agree solutions, and keep the project on track.

When it comes to asking for quotations for building work it is best to do this after RIBA Stage 4, Technical Design. The drawings produced at Stage 3, which we submit for Planning consent, are not detailed enough to allow a builder to produce a firm and detailed quotation for work. You may be able to seek an idea of the likely budget required but this should only be treated as a rough guide of cost.

This often depends on the size of the project and the size of the contractor you employ to build it. The design stage can take anything from 3 months to 3 years and similar to the build. We can advise as soon as we have an idea of the scope of the project and we often produce a project programme after our very first meeting.