Step 2
Initial Design Service

What happens at this stage?
​
The early stages of design of any project are undoubtedly the most important part of the process. You may have a good idea of the kind of space you wish to create but are not sure if it is practical, how to achieve the best layout and how much the work will cost.

​When you add the uncertainty of obtaining planning permission and the need to create a design that meets building regulations, it can be difficult to know where to start.

This is not a task to be completed on your own and it is important to work with an experienced architectural designer to help you find a design solution that meets your needs. 

We like to call the Initial Design Service the 'thinking part' of the design process and it is the stage we will come up with some design ideas and initial plans to help you visualise the proposal before the more detailed planning and building regulations drawings are finalised.

It is a time to consider your options including layouts, building costs and time-frames and, between us, decide on the best solution for your needs.
It may be worth considering the benefits of a single or two
storey extension at this stage.
How does it work?
​
The process starts with a full measured survey of your property and a discussion with you where a written brief is taken to establish your requirements. We usually require around 2-3 hours for this process.

We will be pleased to look at multiple options as part of this service such as a rear extension and a loft conversion or you may be considering the benefits of a single storey extension versus a two storey extension.

Our design team will then produce  one or more scheme designs for your proposal, together with a report providing you with details on planning issues, building costs and project time-frames. ​We will  present the scheme to you at an on-line meeting and send you pdf copies of the plans and report after the meeting.

​At the end of this process, you will be in a position to decide on the best way forward for your project and most of our clients would usually then proceed to our Detailed Design Service.
""I would happily recommend you to everyone I know for the initial design survey and plans as well as all the advice and help you provided me with. I certainly wouldn't have got to the point of the build without you and your team. I will definitely use you again for the planning if I move on from here." .....Miss Bushnell, Croydon
3D images such as these can really help bring a project to
life at an early stage in the design.

This service includes:

  • Initial 'Client Brief' meeting with you at your property to establish your requirements. 
  • Full measured survey of your property.
  • Scaled plans prepared for proposed design - these are issued to you as a pdf file.
  • 3D floor plans and rendered images provided to help you visualise the proposal.
  • Budget building cost provided.
  • On-line presentation with you to explain design principles and highlight any design issues.
  • Planning and Building Regulations advice given.​
  • Summary of project time-scales provided.

How much does this cost?

The cost of this service is one third of our Design Fee and is  payable upon completion of the property survey.

How long does this take?

​This service usually takes 3-4 weeks to complete from the survey date and receipt of payment.​

Samples

Click below to view some recently completed projects.