Stage 2-3. Scheme Design & Planning Application
This stage will form a feedback loop between us – working to develop a design that meets your needs as well as aesthetic requirements. This includes time and expenses for one site meeting at the property to discuss the proposals (or online in line with current government advice). This will also include our time for one meeting/one round of correspondence with the planning officer for pre-application advice, if required/available. Followed by all architectural work required for a Planning Submission. Three rounds of scheme amendments are included.
Below example images of design presentation materials for residential extensions/renovation.
The Process
This is the exciting bit where the possibilities are explored and can then be presented for discussion!
A sketch schemes are created (usually with 2-3 options) which are drawn in plan and elevation (if required). A 3D virtual model is available as an option to help you visualise the space (more information here).
A design presentation meeting is setup (or zoom meeting) to discuss the sketch schemes with precedent and example images to help illustrate ideas. These help explore materials, window/door arrangements and the quality of the light in the space, finishes and detailed to get excited about!
Following client feedback, one design option is developed and refined with images and revised drawings sent to you on a regular basis. As the design is finalised, additional supplementary drawings/information are readied for the planning application submission (if required).
Included in Stage 2-3:
- Time for the design and development of the scheme
- One design presentation meeting on site to discuss ideas.
- A maximum of 3 rounds of drawing amendments are included in the fee to finalise the design.
- Drawing package as required for Local Authority planning application
Client feedback gathered at the end of Stage 2-3
“From the start it’s really felt like you’ve been properly interested in the project and have put the effort in to solve problems and make the most of our limited space whilst taking into account both our aesthetics and the practicalities of life.“
Paul and Jo – Weston
“I really enjoyed going through the drawings. You explained them really well and helped us visualise what you were thinking. I don’t think there’s anything I’d say you could improve at! “
Alex and James – Saltford
“We really liked the extra elements proposed (Crittall style windows inside) the curved wall, lights etc. We were not expecting to receive ideas for lighting and detailed interior layouts. You really listened to us and our family’s needs. We were pleased with the ideas, and the presentation exceeded our expectations.“
Claire – Bathampton
Drawing Board and Instagram Feed
Reunited with some amazing clients last week!
These were some of my lockdown heroes - we tackled online presentations, project delays, and on-site questions together.
While I couldn`t wait for the professional photoshoot later this month, I had to share some sneak peeks. This was absolutely a challenging project! We squeezed in a staircase, a kitchen renovation, a lower-ground shower room, and even the boiler and washing machine – all within a tight space with tricky existing features and site levels.
But now, it looks deceptively "easy" and open – just as good design should!
The final result is remarkably close to the original vision, with details like the double-story round column, the slatted balustrade (including the beautifully detailed "slatted" newel post by the carpenter), the curved shower room wall, and the exposed structural beams bringing it all together.
The clients truly trusted the process, and the contractors at @marptree absolutely delivered. Can`t wait for the professional photos to truly showcase this project!
#architectureproject
#homedesign
#renovationproject
#completedproject
#clientlove
#designbuild
A visit to Hampton Court Flower Show last week!
Maybe not directly work-related, but gardens always ignite my passion for design. It`s fascinating to see how they soften and can bring life to the architectural forms I create.
While I`m definitely not a landscape designer (though the skill is something I admire!), the show got me excited about the possibilities of incorporating small ponds, pools, and diverse plant textures into future projects.
I also loved the increasing presence of wildflower meadows. While lawns remain a classic choice, a shift in thinking seems to be happening. This is fantastic! It promotes biodiversity and creates stunning beauty – a true win-win.
#hamptoncourtflowershow
#architecturaillandscape
#gardeningforarchitects
#softscaping
#bringingtheoutdoorsin
Back to the house with the floorplan options! Which did you choose?
The clients went with Option 2b, but we then collaborated to refine the layout to perfectly suit their needs. Design is all about a feedback loop between us and our clients!
Here are some floorplan extracts from our building control drawings. These drawings provide the basic construction information suitable for typical extensions using traditional building methods. If you`re considering a more complex project, we recommend more detailed full construction drawings.
#FloorplanFriday #HomeExtensions #ClientCollaboration
Our new build in Shrewsbury is progressing well! ️
The careful preparation you see here is for the upcoming airtightness testing, a crucial step in ensuring the home is energy-efficient.
This means a warm, cosy, and most importantly cheap to run, cost-effective home for our clients!
#Shrewsbury #NewBuild #Dreamhome
"Helped" some friends out at the weekend.
Unfortunately digger lessons weren`t a part of architectural education.
I`m painfully slow and have to concentrate far too hard! Definitely would be bad value on a day rate, think I`ll stick to the day job!
Renewed appreciation for skilled drivers working in tight, steep and challenging sites!
Mostly enjoyed the fabulous weather and an excuse to "help" in the sun!
Floorplan Friday!
This week, we helped clients explore the possibilities of a home extension with greater flexibility. Unsure of their budget, we created plans for several extension sizes, along with cost estimates for each. While not as common, this approach was ideal for these clients juggling family priorities.
The twist? We also included an option 4 - maximizing space through clever reconfiguration without an extension!
Which option would YOU choose?
#FloorplanFriday #HomeExtensions #PlanningYourHome