Step 04 Prepare
Turning Vision Into Precision
Once planning permission is secured, the next phase is all about transforming approved concepts into a detailed, buildable package. This is where the big ideas get worked out down to the finest details – ensuring everything is practical, compliant, and ready for construction.
Detailed design covers the architectural, structural, and technical drawings your builder will need to accurately price, plan, and deliver the project including preparing a detailed package for building regulations. We specify materials, resolve construction details, and coordinate with other consultants (such as structural or mechanical engineers) to ensure the entire design package aligns.
PREPARE
The Building Regulations are a set of complex technical requirements that your project must meet. Even if you do not need planning permission, you may need to meet compliance with the regulations. The regulations will cover things such as thickness and type of insulation, structural design and drainage amongst other key things like fire safety. In many cases, a structural engineer may need to be engaged to support the technical submission – and we’ll coordinate this with trusted professionals from our team.
Alongside these regulations, our architects are fully trained to take on the Principal Designer role under the Building Safety Act. This role is critical: your architect carries out regular site visits to assess whether the works meet compliance standards and keeps thorough records to safeguard your project. Under the latest rules, the Principal Designer must sign off the works at the end of the build – so without their involvement, you could face delays or struggle to obtain your Final Certificate unless another party is engaged to fill this role.
Many projects experience delays, cost overruns, or site issues because of missing or unclear details. Investing time in a thorough detailed design package helps avoid these pitfalls, minimising surprises, reducing confusion on site, and giving both you and your builder confidence that the design is practical, deliverable, and fully thought through. This also allows for greater cost certainty at the outset, with contingency planning considered upfront.
Preparation of architectural drawings for building regulations
We prepare architectural drawings and all necessary supporting information to demonstrate that your project complies with current Building Regulations – incorporating details from other consultants where needed.
A formal application is made with relevant information
A formal application submitted to your local authority to confirm that your plans meet Building Regulations requirements for structure, fire safety, sound, ventilation, energy efficiency, drainage, and more.
An application to allow for works to start
For smaller, less complex projects, a Building Notice allows work to begin quickly. Once comprehensive drawings are submitted, work can typically start within 5 days, with regular site inspections by building control.
Navigating with other consultants
We help identify and coordinate with key specialists — such as structural engineers, party wall surveyors, and energy assessors — to ensure all technical input is in place and your project runs smoothly.
Allow for a seamless transition to site
These in-depth drawings show exactly how specific parts of your project will be built, often including material specifications, ensuring a smooth and accurate transition from design to construction.
Work towards cost accuracy
A comprehensive tender package that helps secure accurate quotes. It includes detailed layouts, schedules of work, and key structural information – giving builders a clear basis for pricing.
Where functionality can meet your personality
We illustrate the layout of fixtures, fittings, lighting, and more – ensuring that essential details (like sockets and sanitaryware) are fully thought through and align with your vision for the space.
Visualise how it will come together
To help you visualise the design, especially for larger projects, we can create 3D digital images, walkthroughs, or physical models – giving you a clearer sense of how the finished space will look and feel.
Unclear about what you need to do to meet Building Regulations?
Benefits of our Permissions Stage
Discover how the next steps bought projects to life.
The best proof of our process? Homeowners who now love the homes they live in.