Better Space, Not Just More Space
Residential Architectural Design for Extensions, Loft Conversions & Home Improvements
Why Choose Home Design Services?
✓ Chartered Architectural Technologist
✓ Personal one-to-one service
✓ Clear, builder-friendly drawings
✓ Bespoke designs, no off-the-shelf solutions
✓ Strong technical knowledge
✓ Honest, practical advice
Free No-Obligation Online Consultation
The consultation can be held via Zoom or by phone and typically lasts around an hour. A Zoom consultation is often the most useful option, as it allows screen sharing so I can clearly explain plans, ideas and design options, and respond to questions in real time. This makes it much easier to explore options and understand what may or may not work for your home.
The consultation is a relaxed, two-way conversation rather than a sales call. It gives you the opportunity to talk through your ideas, constraints and priorities, and to benefit from professional advice at an early stage.
There is no obligation to proceed. After the consultation, you’ll receive a follow-up email summarising what we discussed, along with helpful information and a clear fee proposal should you wish to move forward.
For many homeowners, this consultation is a fantastic way to kick-start a home improvement project with confidence, knowing they have sound advice and a clear direction from the outset.
Home Visit, Survey and 3D Scan
I carry out a detailed measured survey of your home to create an accurate base for the design. This includes a more in-depth design discussion, focusing on how you live in the space and what you want to achieve.
I also 3D scan the building, allowing me to revisit it in virtual reality throughout the design process. This helps me stay fully connected to
your home, improves accuracy, and supports better design decisions
from start to finish.
An accurate survey reduces assumptions later in the process, helping to minimise design revisions, site queries, and unexpected issues during construction.
3D Visuals, VR and Walk-Throughs
Where appropriate, I provide free basic 3D walkthroughs as part of the design process. These allow you to explore the proposed layout early on
and help you understand the space and the flow between rooms.
Being able to view the design in 3D makes it much easier to test ideas and refine details. This is particularly useful when experimenting with kitchen layouts, furniture arrangements, storage, and how spaces connect and function in everyday use.
For clients who want a higher level of visual detail, there is also the option to upgrade to high-resolution, photo-realistic renders. These can be presented as still visuals, interactively on a tablet, or experienced using a full virtual reality headset, allowing you to step into the design before anything is built.
Planning Drawings and Applications
I prepare clear, accurate planning drawings that explain the proposal to the local authority and demonstrate compliance with relevant planning policies.
This typically includes existing and proposed plans, elevations and site information, all tailored to the specific requirements of your local council.
I manage the planning application process on your behalf, including the online submission, uploading drawings and responding to any queries during the assessment period. This removes stress, avoids common mistakes, and ensures the application is professionally presented from the outset.
I prepare planning applications with close attention to local planning policy, sound design principles and the protection of neighbouring amenity. This approach has led to an exceptionally high planning success rate helping clients move forward with confidence.
Detailed Drawings & Building Regulations
I prepare detailed building regulations drawings that demonstrate how the design will be constructed and comply with current regulations. These drawings provide the technical detail needed for approval and for builders to price and construct the project accurately.
I also coordinate with structural engineers and other consultants where required, incorporating their designs into the drawings so the package is properly aligned before work starts. This joined-up approach helps avoid delays, design clashes and costly changes later on.
By resolving technical details at the building regulations stage, potential issues are identified early rather than during construction. This leads to smoother approvals, more accurate pricing from builders, and a far more predictable build on site.
Ongoing Advice, Coordination & Compliance
Support doesn’t stop once the drawings are complete. I continue to assist clients through the later stages of the project, helping to keep things clear, compliant and moving in the right direction.
I can provide guidance with related approvals and notifications, such as party wall matters and water authority requirements, helping you understand what is needed and when.
During the build, I remain available to answer client questions, respond to builder queries, and provide clarification on the design and drawings as required. Where changes or variations arise, I can help assess their impact and advise on suitable solutions so decisions can be made with confidence.
I also act as Principal Designer, ensuring that design-stage health and safety duties are properly considered and signed off in line with current regulations.
Robert & Wendy — Rochester
From the initial visit through to planning approval, Ian was a pleasure to work with. His first consultation was incredibly thorough and helped us visualise the project clearly from the outset. He guided us confidently through planning and consultant appointments.
Christine & Mark — Chatham
We were extremely impressed by Ian’s ability to resolve what initially seemed an impossible layout. The quality of the drawings and his professional handling of planning, building control and the structural engineer were outstanding.
