Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Choose a Chartered Architectural Technologist?

When you appoint a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT/FCIAT), you know your project is in safe hands.

A Protected Professional Title

The term Chartered Architectural Technologist is a protected title, meaning only qualified members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) can use it. This gives you confidence that your consultant has been independently assessed and meets the highest professional standards.

Expertise in Design and Technology

Chartered Architectural Technologists combine creative design skills with technical construction knowledge. They ensure your home or development is not only inspiring on paper but also sustainable, practical, and buildable.

Confidence and Accountability

Chartered Members are bound by CIAT’s Code of Conduct, required to carry professional indemnity insurance, and committed to continuous professional development. This means your project is delivered with integrity, accountability, and protection.

A Single Point of Contact

From the first sketch through planning and building regulations to completion, a Chartered Architectural Technologist can act as your lead consultant, coordinating consultants and contractors to keep your project running smoothly.

Choosing a Chartered Architectural Technologist ensures you work with a trusted, qualified, and regulated professional who will safeguard your investment and deliver a home that truly stands the test of time.

Working with a professional architectural design practice offers far more than just drawings. In fact, it is one of the best ways to make sure your project is designed well, built correctly, and fully meets planning and building regulations. As a result, you can avoid delays, reduce costly mistakes, and feel confident in the final outcome.

Expert Design That Works for You

A good design is about more than looks — it should suit your lifestyle, work well in its setting, and be practical for years to come. For example, we think about natural light, flow between rooms, and how the building will work through different seasons. In addition, we ensure every detail matches your needs and budget.

Meeting All Regulations with Ease

Planning and building regulations can be complex. However, with our experience, we manage the entire process for you. We prepare drawings, handle applications, and talk to local authorities on your behalf. Because of this, your project moves forward faster and with fewer problems.

A Smooth, Stress-Free Process

From the first sketch to the final handover, we guide you step-by-step. In addition, we coordinate with builders, engineers, and other consultants so you don’t have to manage multiple points of contact. As a result, you save time, avoid confusion, and can focus on the exciting parts of the build.

Ours fees can vary significantly based on the project scope, location, and complexity. Our rates are:

Hourly rate: £75.00+.

Percentage of construction cost: 5% to 15%.

Fixed fee: Our residential project fees vary depending on scope and complexity. For example, a small domestic extension or loft conversion requiring planning permission typically starts from around £600. Bespoke new-build luxury home design projects, with their tailored architecture and premium detailing, naturally require a higher investment to reflect the level of craftsmanship, creativity, and service provided.

Transparent Proposals

We always provide a clear, tailored fee proposal before starting any work. This means you know exactly what’s included and can budget accordingly.

TSBP Architecture provides a complete range of architectural services for homeowners, developers, and investors. For example, our work includes:

Design and Planning

We offer feasibility studies, concept design, and detailed design development tailored to your site and vision. In addition, we prepare and submit planning applications that give your project the best chance of approval.

Technical and Regulatory Support

We handle building regulations drawings and coordinate with structural engineers and other consultants. As a result, your project moves smoothly from design to construction.

Interior and Finishing

Our interior architecture services ensure that every space works beautifully inside and out. We can also advise on materials, lighting, and finishes to achieve the look and feel you want.

Our Services Include

– Initial consultations and feasibility studies.

– Concept and schematic design.

– Detailed design development and construction documentation.

– Coordination with contractors, engineers, and consultants.

– Project management and site inspections during construction.

– Assistance with permits and regulatory compliance.

– Post-construction services (e.g., evaluation, aftercare).

See our architectural services > page for details.

Consider the following when choosing an architectural design practice:

Experience:

Look for experience in the type of project you are planning.

Portfolio:

Review their past projects to see if their design style matches your vision.

References:

Ask for and check references from past clients to assess their reliability and professionalism.

Compatibility:

Ensure you have good communication and a shared vision.

Budget:

Ensure their services fit within your budget, and clarify how fees are structured.

We focus on luxury residential architecture across London, Surrey, Hampshire, the South East and beyond, even abroad. Our work includes bespoke new-build homes, contemporary extensions, sensitive heritage renovations, and high-end property developments. Whether it’s a countryside eco-home or a listed townhouse, we tailor each design to your site, lifestyle, and vision.

No. While many of our projects are substantial in size or complexity, we also take on smaller schemes where design quality is essential — for example, transforming a single room with light-filled architecture or reconfiguring an existing layout for better living.

Yes, we manage the entire planning process on your behalf

— saving you time, reducing stress, and increasing your chances of success.

We start by preparing high-quality design drawings tailored to your site, vision, and local planning policy. From there, we complete and submit the planning application, handle all communication with the local authority, and respond to any feedback or requests for changes.

If your project involves a sensitive site, heritage setting, or complex constraints, we can also coordinate supporting documents and statements to strengthen your case. Our goal is to secure approval efficiently and with minimal disruption to your project timeline.

(More guidance is available via the UK Planning Portal.)

Absolutely. We are specialists in heritage design and have delivered sensitive projects for Grade II, and II* listed properties. Our approach blends modern functionality with the careful preservation of historic features, ensuring all work meets planning and conservation guidelines.

The earlier, the better. Engaging us at the concept stage means we can help shape the brief, explore site potential, and guide you through the planning process from the outset — saving time, money, and reducing risk later.

Yes. We are passionate about sustainable architecture and regularly design low-energy, eco-friendly homes that achieve high energy ratings. Our approach can include passive solar design, high-performance insulation, and renewable energy systems, all tailored to your aesthetic and comfort.

Our Plan of Work

Our process follows the CIAT Plan of Work and the RIBA Plan of Work, adapted to be clear and client-focused. From initial consultation and concept design, through to planning, technical detailing, construction oversight, and aftercare, we provide support at every stage.

Learn more about our design process >

Yes. We have a trusted network of builders, engineers, and specialists who share our commitment to quality. We can recommend and coordinate with them, or work with your preferred contractors.

Yes. We partner with property developers on high-value residential schemes, providing innovative design, planning expertise, and commercially sound solutions that appeal to buyers and investors.

Getting started is easy. Simply contact us to arrange an initial consultation.

We will discuss your ideas, budget, and timescale, then provide tailored advice and a proposal for your project.

Your First Steps

We recommend preparing any site plans, photos, or inspiration images before the meeting. This helps us understand your vision and give you the most relevant advice. As a result, your first meeting will be more productive, and you’ll get answers that match your needs.