Engaging a qualified architect adds value beyond simply producing drawings. An architect brings design expertise, technical knowledge, understanding of planning and building regulations, project-coordination skills, and the ability to optimise your budget, site conditions and building usability. We help you navigate the whole process — design, planning, specification, and construction oversight — so you avoid common pitfalls and get a better result.

At Architectural Hub we work across a broad range of sectors, including residential extensions and new homes, commercial properties, refurbishment of older buildings, and bespoke architectural commissions. Whether your project is for a homeowner, landlord, property developer, or business, we can tailor our service to your needs.

Architectural fees vary depending on the size, complexity, site conditions, scope of service and construction budget. We provide clear proposals up front so you know what you’re paying for at each stage.

Our typical process includes:

• Initial consultation to understand your brief, aspirations, budget and site.
• Concept design phase – sketching ideas, developing layouts and exploring options.
• Planning submission (if required) – preparing drawings, coordinating with planning authority.
• Technical design stage – detailed drawings and specifications suitable for tender and construction.
• Construction phase – monitoring and administration of contract if we are appointed for this stage.
• Timeframes vary based on project size and approvals required. For a moderate residential extension, the design phase might take a few months; a full new build or major renovation could take longer.

Whether planning permission is required depends on the nature of your project (e.g., new build, major alteration, listed building, change of use). At Architectural Hub we assess each project’s planning risk from the outset. We can prepare and submit planning applications on your behalf, liaise with planning officers, and advise on permitted development rights and other regulatory matters.

We can help you select a contractor through a tender process or negotiate directly, ensuring suitable experience and a track record for your project. If we are appointed for the construction stage, we act as your contract administrator and client agent: reviewing the contractor’s work, carrying out site inspections, ensuring the project is built to the agreed drawings and specification, and managing variations and cost control.

From early on, we work with you to establish a realistic budget and align our design proposals accordingly. During the technical design phase, we produce drawings and specifications that provide the contractor with the information needed to price the project accurately. Avoiding changes later helps control cost and schedule. If cost estimates begin to exceed your budget, we can review design options and materials to bring the project back on track.

An architect is a professional regulated by ARB and typically a member of RIBA (in our case). They have comprehensive training in design, technology, regulations, contract administration, sustainability, and consultant coordination. A building designer or drafter may produce drawings, but does not necessarily provide the complete professional service, legal accountability and regulatory backing an architect does. Knowing this difference helps you choose the right professional for your needs.

The sooner the better. Involving an architect early ensures site and planning issues are identified before significant costs are committed; design options are developed while the brief is still flexible; and budget and programme risks are better managed. Even if you are only at the “idea” stage, we’re happy to discuss your project and advise on the next best steps.