2024 - Let this be your sign to start a new architectural project

As the new year gets underway it is now a great time to start thinking about beginning the project you have always wanted to do. 

Whether that is to re-organise your home and create some extra space, which could be an extension, loft or garage conversion, interior re-design or conservatory, or whether you want to convert a building or even build your own new home they all need to start somewhere.

Where do you begin?

Many clients come to me with ideas they have been thinking about for a while. It might be specific thoughts on style, pictures of individual elements, rough sketches or even plans drawn up themselves that need drafting to scale, rationalising and presenting.

Some have a plot of land in mind and want to know what could be done or even own a site with previous plans that they wish to be updated or changed to suit.

Some clients contact me with a desire to complete maintenance to their properties but they are unsure what permissions are needed, especially if they are aware of a listing, being in a conservation area or having tree protection orders within the boundaries.

Start the conversation

It is important to me that whether a client has a fixed idea of what they want or only a vague one they are able to begin the process in exactly the same way. A site visit and an initial meeting is always the first step. It gives the chance to gauge the site and design ideas and identify any factors that may have an impact and you know who you will be working with, a good client-professional relationship is essential.

Discussing the way forward is the next step. Sometimes that is a straightforward path to submitting a full planning application but quite often it isn't! There are many options and there is much more to the architectural process than you may think.

What is a pre-application?

A pre-application is a really useful tool if you are thinking of building but are unsure if it will be accepted by your local planning authority. A proposal will be written detailing the size and architectural style with some precents examples set out suggesting materials and the location and orientation discussed and plotted on a plan. 

This will then be submitted allowing the council to return an informed response providing information about the site and surrounding area, giving a concluding opinion on likelihood of approval. Although there is a fee for this, it can provide peace of mind before committing to a full design process.

If you are inspired to begin

Contact me at cmarchitectural15@gmail.com or 07584992755 | 01558328169

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