Architectural Services
Architectural Services for Extensions & Self Build Design
At Deans Design Services, our Architectural Services combine technical precision with creative vision to deliver spaces that are functional, compliant, and visually engaging. Whether you’re planning a new build, renovation, or layout improvement, we develop designs that reflect your goals while meeting all regulatory requirements.
We use a CAD-based process to support detailed planning, accurate documentation, and smooth coordination with engineering and construction teams. Moreover, we serve residential, commercial, and industrial sectors with design packages that prioritise efficiency, sustainability, and usability.
From initial concept to final submission, we carefully coordinate elevations, floor plans, access routes, and service zones to ensure clarity and cohesion. By balancing aesthetics with practicality, we create spaces that are both inspiring and purpose-built.
Beyond technical drawings, our Architectural Services focus on shaping experiences. We simplify complex requirements and guide clients through planning procedures, regulatory frameworks, and technical challenges. Whether the design is bold or understated, we aim to elevate your project and deliver lasting value.
To maintain consistency and quality, Deans Design Services follows the RIBA Plan of Work, ensuring that every architectural project meets professional standards from concept through to completion.
Contact us today to assist with your Architectural project.
Pre-Planning Phase
Before you lay the first brick, meticulous planning is essential. To begin with, define your project goals, budget, and scope. Next, consider how your new home will accommodate your family’s future needs, both now and in the years to come. In addition, conduct a feasibility study to assess the suitability of your chosen site. By taking these early steps, you create a strong foundation for your self-build journey. Ultimately, thoughtful planning—supported by professional architectural services—sets the stage for a smooth and successful project.
Design Considerations:
The design of your home is at the heart of your project. From the very beginning, collaborating with an architect allows you to formulate a brief tailored to your unique vision. This stage is crucial, as it gives you the opportunity to ensure every space works for your lifestyle—whether that means a kitchen that accommodates a large family or dedicated storage for your book collection.
As you move forward, think about orientation, maximising natural light, capturing views, and improving energy efficiency. At the same time, incorporate sustainable design practices that benefit both your family and the environment. In the end, a thoughtful design sets the tone for a living space that is not only functional but also beautiful and enduring.
Budgeting and Financing:
Creating a realistic budget is essential for a successful project. To start, include all key expenses such as land costs, construction, design, planning, and building control fees. Next, check whether utilities like water and electricity are available on site. If they are not, arrange utility connections early to avoid costly delays.
In addition, always include a contingency fund to cover unexpected costs or challenges that may arise. At the same time, explore financing options that align with your financial situation and long-term goals. Throughout the process, we help balance your dream design with budget limitations. As a result, our guidance provides a clear, informed view of what your budget can realistically achieve.
Obtaining Planning Permission and Building Regulations Approval:
Navigating planning permissions and building regulations is complex, yet absolutely essential. To avoid costly delays, you should secure all necessary permissions before construction begins. Not only do building regulations protect safety, but they also ensure full legal compliance.
At every stage, we guide clients through the planning and building regulation processes. For first-time developers especially, our support simplifies the challenges of self-build projects. By considering requirements early, we streamline approvals and significantly reduce risk.
In fact, Kimble Roden has achieved a 100% success rate for plan approvals. Thanks to our proactive approach, early-stage planning consistently saves clients time, money, and stress—ultimately leading to smoother project delivery.
Choosing Contractors and Suppliers:
Selecting the right contractors, builders, and suppliers significantly impacts your project’s success. To begin with, vet professionals rigorously, check references, and evaluate previous work to ensure quality and reliability. As you narrow down your choices, consider their experience, communication style, and track record with similar projects.
Fortunately, as architects, we bring a network of trusted industry connections, which helps place your project in capable hands. In addition to sourcing the right team, we also manage contract administration—setting up agreements between you and your builder to ensure a fixed price and programme are clearly defined and consistently followed.
By combining careful selection with expert oversight, we help safeguard your project from delays, cost overruns, and miscommunication.
Construction Phase:
During construction, effective project management is key to keeping everything on track. To begin with, maintaining clear communication with your construction team is essential for avoiding misunderstandings and delays. In addition, regular site visits allow you to monitor progress, identify issues early, and address concerns promptly.
However, unexpected challenges may still arise. When they do, having a knowledgeable team—like ours—by your side ensures that problems are met with effective solutions. As a result, costs are minimised, timelines stay intact, and the integrity of your design remains uncompromised. Ultimately, strong project management leads to a smoother, more successful build.
