Clients frequently ask us to undertake a feasibility study at the start of a project. We consider the client’s initial brief and prepare design solutions for the client to see the options for their project. We provide sketches and 3D visualisations of our proposals and plans so everyone can easily understand them, even if they are unfamiliar with technical drawings.
Specialist advice on condition is available in-house, or we can coordinate with other specialist consultants.
The study can be developed to include a cost appraisal, enabling you to consider the financial implications of the options. We recommend appointing a quantity surveyor experienced in conservation projects.
Getting pre-application advice from Local Planning Authorities has become increasingly challenging, particularly for most homeowners of listed buildings. We understand the risks and are here to help.
Using our in-depth knowledge of planning guidance and legislation, we have an extremely high success rate obtaining planning and listed building consents.
We understand the challenges posed by rising energy costs and the climate crisis. Our expertise in sustainability and energy efficiency measures for historic/traditional buildings enables us to provide designs that satisfy building regulations whilst reconciling the need to conserve the building, conserve energy, and contain project costs to the essential benefit of the client and building alike.
We have extensive experience in the sensitive alteration and extension of many historic building types. This sometimes requires negotiation with the Local Planning Authority, Historic England, and the National Amenity Societies.
Our objective is always to arrive at sensitive and appropriate solutions that meet our client’s needs without compromising the historic integrity of the original building.
We do not have a ‘house style’ as such – we prefer to enable each design to develop individually, based on the unique requirements of the brief and our careful analysis of the site, budget, programme, and any imposed design and legislative parameters.
We can help you to make sure your project is well executed throughout the construction phase.
We have worked locally for over 20 years and can advise on competent contractors and specialist heritage trades.
We can help you select contractors with the right experience, management, and construction skills, provide quality inspections, monitor variations, and administer the contract for you.
The Principal Designer's role concerns Health & Safety.
Defined under The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM), the regulations apply to all construction work and form a legal requirement. Every construction project must comply with CDM, including appointing a duty holder. While the requirements differ between commercial and domestic clients, we can tailor the service to suit your project.
If you are unsure but would like an initial consultation, we can arrange a visit to talk about the project with you so you can get a better feel for it.
We love to discuss possibilities, particularly over a nice cup of tea. Below are our terms and conditions for an initial consultation for you. Please note this is a chargeable service, following which you are not obligated to proceed with us, though most of our clients do.
Let's talk about your project