"Build Smart. Design Bold. Construct Right."
At Buildrite, we don’t just design buildings—we design better ways to live, work, and grow. Our Architectural Design & Planning services combine creativity, technical expertise, and planning compliance to help homeowners, investors, and businesses realize their space’s full potential. Whether you’re envisioning a loft conversion, house extension, or ground-up new build, our architects guide you from idea to implementation — with precision, professionalism, and passion.
What Is Architectural Design & Planning?
Architectural Design & Planning is the foundation of any successful construction or renovation project. It includes everything from site analysis and feasibility, to conceptual drawings, planning permission, and technical documentation for construction and regulatory approvals. Buildrite provides a start-to-finish solution, ensuring that your vision is not only brought to life beautifully, but also safely, legally, and efficiently.
Why This Service Matters
Many property owners make the mistake of jumping into construction without proper
architectural planning. This often leads to:
- Non-compliance with building regulations
- Delays in planning approvals
- Increased costs due to poor space utilization or redesign
- Inconsistent contractor work and confusion on-site
Our expert-led architectural planning service ensures you avoid all these pitfalls and move seamlessly into the build phase.
Service Breakdown – What’s Included?
Here’s what you can expect from our complete architectural design and planning package:
1. Initial Consultation & Project Briefing
We start by understanding:
- Your vision and lifestyle need
- Budget constraints
- Site conditions and dimensions
- Regulatory requirements
- Your preferred design aesthetic
This lays the groundwork for a personalized design that reflects your objectives and adheres to local planning rules.
2. Measured Site Survey & Site Analysis
Our surveyors visit your property to:
- Take precise measurements
- Assess access, lighting, drainage, and surroundings
- Identify constraints (trees, utilities, conservation areas, etc.)
- Evaluate site topography and orientation for sustainability potential
The data we collect here feeds directly into the accuracy of all design drawings.
3. Concept Design & Space Planning
This is where ideas start to take shape. Our architects provide:
- Preliminary design concepts
- Multiple layout options
- 2D floor plans and elevations
- Optional 3D visuals for better spatial understanding
- Functional analysis (flow, lighting, movement)
You review, suggest changes, and approve the final concept before we move forward.
4. Planning Application Submission
We prepare and submit all planning documents:
- Scaled drawings (plans, elevations, sections)
- Site and location maps
- Design & Access Statements
- Heritage or flood risk assessments (if applicable)
- Application form submission and liaison with local council
Bonus: We also respond to planner queries and make amendments if needed.
5. Building Regulations & Structural Integration
Once planning is approved, we prepare your project for construction. This includes:
- Building Regulation-compliant technical drawings
- Wall build-ups, insulation details, and fire safety notes
- Structural calculations via qualified engineers
- Integration with HVAC, M&E, and plumbing specs
- CDM (Construction Design & Management) health and safety notes
These documents ensure the builder knows exactly what to do, and your project stays compliant from the ground up.
6. Handover to Contractors / Build Teams
Once everything’s signed off, we can either:
- Handover documents to your contractor
- OR work with our own in-house construction team to deliver a fully integrated design & build experience
We also remain available for clarification or design adjustments during construction, ensuring the process remains smooth and on-track.
Types of Projects We Design
● House Extensions
Side, rear, wraparound, or double-story – we maximize your plot and add value.
● Loft Conversions
Dormer, hip-to-gable, or mansard lofts designed for maximum head height and light.
● Garage Conversions
Turn unused garage space into offices, living areas, or ensuites with smart structural integration.
● New Builds
Bespoke designs from the ground up for detached homes, semi-detached or small residential developments.
● Internal Reconfigurations
Open up kitchens, remove walls, or repurpose space for modern living.
● Commercial Fit-Outs
Design and planning for retail units, small cafés, hospitality renovations and more.
Sustainability & Environmental Focus
At Buildrite, we believe good design is responsible design. That’s why sustainability is embedded into our process:
- Optimized natural light and ventilation
- Energy-efficient material selection
- EV charging point planning
- Rainwater management and landscape integration
- Design to meet Future Homes Standard and Part L compliance
We help you reduce your carbon footprint and utility bills — while increasing long-term property value.
Who This Service Is For
Our architectural planning services are ideal for:
- Homeowners – planning extensions, lofts or layout changes
- Property Developers – needing design packs for planning and resale
- Self-Builders – looking for a full package from idea to shovel
- Landlords – converting properties into HMOs or rental-optimized layouts
- Investors – requiring feasibility studies and ROI-based designs
- Business Owners – planning to redesign or repurpose commercial units
Our Design Tools & Technology
We use industry-leading software and systems:
- AutoCAD & Revit (2D & 3D Modelling)
- Lumion & SketchUp (Visual Renders)
- SAP Calculations & Energy Reports
- Digital planning portals for fast-track submissions
- BIM workflows for clash-free building coordination
FAQs – Architectural Design & Planning
Not always. Many house extensions and lofts fall under Permitted Development Rights. We’ll assess and advise accordingly.
From first consultation to submission: 2–3 weeks. Planning approval: ~8 weeks. Building Regs drawings: 1–2 weeks post-approval.
Yes, we have in-house structural engineers to handle this efficiently.
Absolutely! Buildrite also offers complete construction and project management services.
Why Choose Buildrite?
- 10+ Years of Residential & Commercial Design Experience
- End-to-End Design & Build Services
- Local Authority Expertise Across London, Kent, Surrey, Essex
- High Approval Rate with Planning Applications
- Transparent Costs & Clear Timelines
- Friendly, Skilled, Multi-Disciplinary Team
Ready to Get Started?
Let’s bring your project to life — with the right design, the right planning, and the right team.
- Book your FREE design consultation
- Serving: Greater London, Essex, Kent, Surrey & beyond
- Call us at [01494 413332]
- Or request a quote online via our Contact Form