Somerset Architects for Collaborative 3D Design

RIBA Chartered Architects specialising in residential projects.

Creative & Sustainable
New-Build

We help self-builders looking to design their dream eco-home, and land owners looking to maximise the potential of their plot. We have a proven track record of securing planning permission within challenging design constraints such as conservation areas, national parks, AONBs and near listed buildings.

architects in somerset extensions

Contemporary Extensions

We design beautiful contemporary extensions. Transform your living space by adding natural light, improving the connection with the outdoors and creating harmony between spaces.

somerset architect modern extension

Listed and Heritage Property Alterations

Do you have a listed building or period Cotswolds property which lacks natural light, feels disconnected from the outside and has poor flow between living spaces? We are experts at turning period properties into functional homes, customised for modern living.

somerset architect period property modern extension

Sensitively Designed Barn Conversions

We are architects skilled at working with listed buildings such as barn conversions, in conservation areas and AONBs and with complex design constraints. Let us help you to make the best use of your existing building.

somerset architects barn conversion

Testimonials

  • "He just has a vision for how to create beautiful homes. He listens, he works with you, he guides you and above all he is super patient and knows his stuff. We are so beyond happy he has designed our dream home"

    Tiffany and Purdie

  • “Joshua has done a great job for us, he is full of creative ideas and he has a good understanding of all the technical aspects and requirements too. Easy to do business with, always prompt and we got planning through without any hitches.”

    Hugh

  • “Josh has delivered a first class service and goes above and beyond to ensure you receive a a great client experience. We have benefitted from his professional advice, creative ideas and support every step of the way.”

    Jayne

Our Process

We center our architectural design work around a collaborative design process, involving you in every design decision and listening carefully to your feedback. We don’t push a ‘house style’ on our clients, instead we create custom designs which aim to meet your brief and exceed your expectations.

We utilise 3D design software as a core part of our process, helping you to visualise the completed building long before work starts on site, without relying solely on 2D drawings. This empowers you to make informed design decisions.

Most projects start with a pre-design consultation which gives us the opportunity to meet you on site and dedicate time to exploring the feasibility of your project, providing you with expert design and budgeting advice.

Following this initial consultation we will send you a fee proposal which breaks down all the steps needed to take your project from the seed of an idea to a completed building. Get in touch to start your design journey today.

  • After initial contact we’ll usually arrange a quick phone or video call to find out more about your project, listen to your outline ideas, and make sure that we’re a good fit to help you moving forward.

  • As part of our pre-design consultation service we will visit the site with you in person to discuss your ideas in greater detail. We’ll also look at the opportunities and constraints of your site so that we can advise you on what is possible, and suggest ideas you may not have thought about.

    Following this initial consultation we’ll give you practical budgeting advice as well as provide you with a detailed fee proposal to assist you moving forward.

  • Once you decide to go ahead the next step is to arrange a measured survey of your property.

    This provides us with highly accurate measurements of the existing site and buildings in a format we can use in our CAD software. In most cases this service will be provided by a specialist third party surveyor using precision laser scanning equipment, to ensure accuracy, though on very small projects we may carry out the survey ourselves.

  • This is where the fun starts. We will compile the survey information into a 3D model of the existing property and then begin to generate concept design ideas based on your brief.

    We will hold meetings with you and will collaboratively iterate the design based on our discussions.

    We find that most clients are delighted with the design after one or two meetings, however we will keep making changes until you are 100% satisfied.

  • Once we’ve agreed a concept design with you it is often a good idea to obtain a budget cost estimate for the project. This step is optional, but makes sure that the concept design is affordable for you before we proceed with a planning application.

  • Once the concept design has been agreed we will develop relevant areas of the design further in preparation for a planning application.

    We will then prepare a high quality package of drawings and information ready to submit with your planning application.

    We’ll send you a draft set of drawings to review, then we’ll handle the process with your local authority from there.

  • Once planning permission is granted we will prepare a detailed package of technical drawings and information which can be submitted to building control, and can also be used by contractors to accurately price the work and use on site during construction.

    At this stage we will usually coordinate with a structural engineer who would design any structural elements and provide calculations.

  • We can help you to find contractors, tender your project and choose the right contract for the work.

    Once work starts on site we will always be on hand to offer support. This might include helping you or your contractor with queries or changes, visiting site to review progress, or providing additional design drawings.

Start Your Design Journey Today

  • Pre-Design Consultation

    If you are brimming with ideas but uncertain about the next steps then we can help. Let us guide you through all the considerations.

    Clarify Your Vision

  • 'Test a Sketch'

    Investigate what’s possible for your site. Create a conceptual site plan and test a sketch layout with the local planning authority

    See What's Possible

  • Full 3D Design

    Ready to design your dream home? Our full 3D design and planning service provides everything you need, including 3D CGIs.

    Design Your Dream Home

Key Design Considerations for Architects in Somerset When Planning a Project

Understanding Somerset's Architectural Landscape

When embarking on a new architectural project in Somerset, architects must first grasp the unique characteristics of the region's architectural landscape. Somerset boasts a rich history reflected in its diverse architectural styles, ranging from traditional English cottages to Georgian manors and modern developments. By understanding the local architectural heritage, architects can ensure that their designs harmonize with the surrounding environment while meeting the needs and preferences of clients.

Navigating Planning Regulations and Conservation Areas

Somerset is home to numerous conservation areas, national parks, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), each with its own set of planning regulations and guidelines. Architects must navigate these regulations effectively to secure planning permission for their projects. Additionally, working within conservation areas requires a sensitive approach to design, preserving the historic fabric of the built environment while incorporating modern amenities and functionalities.

Integration of Sustainable Design Principles

Incorporating sustainable design principles is paramount when planning architectural projects in Somerset. With a growing emphasis on environmental conservation and energy efficiency, architects must prioritize sustainable building materials, energy-efficient systems, and passive design strategies. By integrating these elements into their designs, architects not only reduce the environmental impact of buildings but also enhance their long-term resilience and performance in Somerset's varied climate.

Respecting Somerset's Rural Character

Much of Somerset's charm lies in its picturesque rural landscapes and quaint villages. When designing projects in rural areas, architects must respect the region's rural character and vernacular architecture. This may involve utilizing local materials, adopting traditional building techniques, and designing buildings that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. By doing so, architects contribute to the preservation of Somerset's rural identity while creating buildings that enhance their surroundings.

Follow Us

For our latest updates follow us on instagram

We recently submitted plans for a new contemporary garden room extension for a period property in Chedworth. The extension will replace an existing conservatory and greatly improve the connection between the house and garden.
We have recently been instructed to assist with extensions and refurbishment to this beautiful grade II listed mill situated on the edge of the North Wessex Downs. Looking forward to getting started on concept design ideas soon.
We recently completed technical drawings and gained planning and building control approval for this rear extension and loft conversion to a Cotswold stone property in Fairford. Looking forward to seeing progress on site soon.
A beautiful frosty morning in the Cotswolds. ❄️
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Thank you to all of our clients, colleagues, friends and followers for your support over the last 12 months. The office will be closed between the 23rd December and the 3rd January.
We've recently been working on designs for the conversion and extension of this characterful barn. More pics to come soon. ... #cotswolds #architecture #barnconversion
Concept design ideas for a new contemporary single storey extension in Fairford, creating a large open plan kitchen and dining room that will be flooded with natural light. .... #extension #cotswolds #architecture
This week we're developing concept design ideas for renovations to this delightful cottage near Burford. The house has several level changes which follow the natural topography of the site, making it an exciting challenge to reconfigure the living s
Planning application submitted for a rear extension and garage conversion - adding a playroom, boot room and home office to this cotswold stone house in Fairford. ... #architecture #cotswolds #architects #construction #building #archilovers #archi

FAQs

  • We’re based in Fairford, near Cirencester, Gloucestershire, just outside of the Cotswolds AONB. We are approximately 20 minutes north of the Swindon junction of the M4.

  • We provide architectural services to projects across the Cotswolds and the M4 corridor including Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Cirencester, Bath, Bristol and Swindon.

  • We can do but it’s not our preferred option. A large portion of our architectural work can be completed remotely, but we always like to visit site in person at least once. This is really important to help us gain an understanding of the site and surroundings as these play a key part in the success of the project.

    So long as a site visit has been carried out, most design consultations or client meetings are held remotely by phone or video call from then on.

    Just note that if your project is a long way away from our base in Gloucestershire then we may only be able to offer limited site support once construction work starts.

  • We are specialist residential architects, working primarily on residential projects such as new-build or self-build houses, barn conversions and modern extensions. We’re also skilled in working with listed buildings and heritage properties.

  • Every project is unique, that’s why we provide a bespoke fee proposal which is customized to the requirements of each individual site. Our initial consultation service is set as a fixed fee and is refundable if you go ahead with the project, for peace of mind. Have a look at our services pages for more information about an initial consultation or get in touch today.

  • We have a 100% planning approval record. No architect can guarantee planning permission but we are experienced at working closely with local authority planning departments to negotiate a good outcome for our clients.

    Through the use of sensitive design and illustration we have a proven track record of achieving planning permission where others have failed, particularly where there are complex constraints such as listed buildings, conservation areas and AONBs. Our ‘test a sketch’ service can be useful for this scenario.

    Planning departments that we work with regularly include Cotswolds District Council, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Council, West Oxfordshire District Council, Tewkesbury Borough Council, Stroud District Council, Bath and Northeast Somerset Council and others.