Interview with ‘Architectural Services’

Tell us a little of the background of your Architectural practice?

I started up my practice in 2010 when I moved out of London with my wife and then 6-month-old daughter. I wanted to provide a competitively priced service that also considered the buildability of the project as well as creating spaces that function well along with innovative design. We are a small team of 3 that consists of a Land and Measured Building Surveyor, Architectural Assistant plus myself. We work on predominantly residential projects ranging from internal remodelling and renovation through extensions, loft conversions and new build houses for private clients and developers.

As a Father of 2 girls I have a good understanding of what families are looking for through first-hand experience. We handle the entire process and manage the planning and building regulations applications on behalf of our clients.

Do you offer pre-exchange assessments to residential clients?

Yes, we can work with clients to visit the property to offer advice on the scope and development potential of the property. If required, we can then put together feasibility sketches of a proposed scheme usually using Hampton’s floor plans as a starting point. We will research the local area and provide advice on what is likely to be acceptable to the local authority based on local policy and previously approved projects in the area. We have worked closely with the local councils for more than 12 years, so we have a good understanding of local planning policy and what is likely to be granted permission.

What are the most popular requests from residential clients?

Better flow and light into the property as well as a social space for family and friends to gather, usually as part of a Kitchen / Dining / Family room. The Living space is usually the area which most clients are focused on along with additional bedrooms for a growing family. The most recent trend is for a dedicated home working area, whether this is attached to the property in a separate room or nook or as a multi-use outbuilding for work and play. We are also seeing a growing need for self-contained annexes whether for a dependant relative or Nanny / Au-pair.

Is there a project you are most proud of?

The projects that make us feel most proud are when a client comes back to us after the project has been completed to tell us how well the space works and how the small, seemingly insignificant details, made the biggest difference to how the space feels. It’s this feedback that gives us the greatest job satisfaction and pride.