Our Architectural Design Process
Project Discovery & Site Meeting
It’s important for us to understand your aspirations, how you live, and what you want to achieve with your home. That’s why the first stage in our architectural design process is an on-site consultation.
This allows us to visit your property, explore your ideas, and provide expert advice on how best to move forward. Whether you’re planning a luxury new build, bespoke extension, or full home renovation, we offer tailored design solutions that combine creativity, technical detail, and planning insight.
Led by CIAT Chartered Architectural Designer James Fairclough, our studio brings the same level of professionalism and creativity you’d expect from a residential architect, without the title. We proudly support clients across Warwickshire, the Cotswolds, Solihull, The Midlands Surrey, and throughout the UK.
Proposal Accepted & Measured Survey Scheduled
Once we have discussed the feasibility of your project and you have received and approved our fee proposal, we then carry out a measured survey and draw up the existing plans. Not only are the existing drawings a requirement for obtaining planning permission but this also gives us the foundation to start developing design solutions to suit your brief. Understanding the existing property and getting a feel for what currently stands on the site is important when producing a design that will not only compliment it but enhance it.
Preliminary & Proposed Architectural Designs
This is where your project is nurtured and a preliminary design based on your initial brief is drawn up. Analysis of the site, our architectural design and construction knowledge come together to acquire a proposal that reflects your brief. These designs are presented to yourself and any tweaks and finishing touches applied before submitting with a planning application. If your proposal falls within permitted development, the planning stage can be skipped, and we can proceed with the working drawings needed for Building Regulations Approval.
3D Architectural Design and Visualisation Service
If you choose our 3D architectural design and visualisation service, we’ll create a photorealistic representation of your final architectural concept, bringing your vision vividly to life. This detailed visualisation offers a clear preview of your space as it will appear upon completion, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the design’s look and feel.
This stage is a valuable opportunity to review and refine your bespoke architectural design, allowing you to confidently adjust materials, layouts, and finishes. Whether you want to experiment with different surfaces, rearrange interior elements, or explore alternative architectural features, our high-quality 3D visualisations ensure every aspect is accurately represented—helping you finalise your luxury home or bespoke project with complete certainty.
Planning Application
Once the architectural drawings and all necessary documents are finalised, we prepare a comprehensive planning application to submit to the local authority for approval. Following submission, a four-week consultation period begins, during which neighbours are notified of your proposed project. This is followed by a four-week decision phase, where the planning department reviews the application and makes a decision within eight weeks.
Throughout this process, our experienced design team, skilled in architectural planning and compliance, works closely with planning officers to provide expert support and guidance, ensuring your project has the best chance of securing planning approval.
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Building Regulations Approval for Bespoke Residential Projects
Building Regulations approval is a crucial, separate process from planning permission, focused on the safety, health, and performance of your building rather than its aesthetics. Whether you’re undertaking a new build, extension, renovation, or conversion, compliance with current Building Regulations ensures your project meets essential construction standards.
At Emerald Bespoke Architectural Design, we produce comprehensive, detailed working drawings that align with the latest Building Regulations requirements - the same as an architect would. Our expert design team ensures your proposal adheres fully to these standards, guiding you through the approval process to secure your Building Regulations sign-off certificate with confidence.
The Building Phase
Once planning permission has been granted (if required), construction is ready to begin - whether you prefer to engage our dedicated construction experts or manage the build separately, we offer flexible options to suit your project needs. Our construction team ensures every phase - from ground preparation to the final finishing touches - is executed with precision, quality, and efficiency. We prioritise clear communication and provide regular updates throughout the process, so your vision is realised seamlessly and on schedule.
At Emerald Bespoke Architectural, our goal is to deliver a finished luxury home that exceeds expectations, combining exceptional craftsmanship with the ease of a stress-free build experience.
