Not every project legally requires one, but most projects benefit from one. An architect brings design thinking, technical knowledge, and project experience that typically adds more value than it costs. If your project involves planning permission, listed building consent, complex structural changes, or simply matters to you as a long-term investment in your home, appointing an architect is almost always the right decision.

We work on residential projects of all scales from carefully considered extensions through to complex new builds. What our projects have in common isn't budget, it's intent. If you want a home that's been properly thought through and designed around the way you actually live, we'd love to hear from you. The best way to find out if we're the right fit is a conversation - get in touch and we'll be honest with you.

Get in touch via our contact page or call the studio directly. We'll arrange a short introductory call to understand your project, and if it feels like a good fit, we'll suggest an initial no-obligation consultation, ideally at your home or site, before anything else is agreed.

We're based in Solihull and work extensively across Birmingham and the wider Midlands, but we take on projects nationally and internationally where the right fit is there. If you're outside the Midlands and have a project you'd like to discuss, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Fees vary depending on the scope, scale, and complexity of the project. We typically work on a percentage of the construction cost for full appointments, or a fixed fee for defined scopes such as planning applications. We're transparent about fees from the outset - we'll always give you a clear proposal before any work begins.

In most cases, yes. A well-designed home adds measurable value, both financially and in terms of how you live in it. An architect can also save you money during the build by reducing waste, managing the contractor relationship, and ensuring the specification is right first time. The cost of not getting it right is usually higher than the cost of getting proper advice.

We offer a no-obligation introductory call at no cost. For an initial site or home visit, we may charge a modest consultation fee depending on the distance and scope of the conversation, but we'll always be upfront about that before we visit.

Not always. Many extensions can be built under Permitted Development rights, which allow certain works without a formal planning application. The rules depend on the size, position, and nature of the extension, as well as whether your property has any restrictions. We can advise you on this early in the process and apply for a Lawful Development Certificate where appropriate, giving you written confirmation that your project is permitted.

A standard householder planning application takes eight weeks from validation to decision in most cases, though this can extend to thirteen weeks for more complex applications. We manage the process on your behalf and maintain dialogue with the local planning authority throughout to give your application the best chance of success.

A Lawful Development Certificate is formal written confirmation from your local authority that your proposed works are lawful - either because they fall within Permitted Development rights or because an existing use is established. It isn't always legally required, but it protects you when you come to sell your home and gives you certainty before you commit to a build.

You'll work directly with Ryan Gormley, the studio's founder, throughout your project. We don't pass clients down a chain or hand work off to junior staff. The person you speak to at the start is the person who designs your home and sees it through to completion.

It depends on the scope. A straightforward planning application for an extension might take three to four months. A full architectural appointment on a new build - from initial design through planning, technical design, and construction - is more typically eighteen months to three years depending on the complexity of the build. We'll give you a realistic programme at the outset and keep you updated throughout.