How we work, from first conversation to finished extension.
Every home is different, but our process isn't. We take your extension, renovation or new home through four clear stages: getting to know you and your house, design and planning permission, Building Regulations and detail, then building. You'll know what happens at each stage, how long it usually takes, and what you get at the end of it.
What happens, and when
A typical house extension takes around 4 to 6 months from our first conversation to being ready to build, depending mostly on the council's planning decision.
Conversation
Weeks 1–3
We start by visiting you at home in Chester or the surrounding area. We walk through the house with you, listen to how you live and what isn't working, and talk honestly about budget. Then we measure the house and draw it as it is now, so the design starts from accurate information.
- Week 1Free initial call and home visit
- Week 1–2Written brief and fee proposal
- Week 2–3Measured survey and existing drawings
You getA clear brief, a fixed fee proposal and drawings of your home as it is.
Design and planning
Weeks 3–16
We sketch layout options and talk them through with you, using 3D views so you can see the space before it's built. Once you're happy with the design, we prepare the drawings and submit a planning application, or a Lawful Development Certificate if your extension falls under permitted development, to Cheshire West and Chester Council or your local council.
- Weeks 3–6Concept options, sketches and 3D views
- Weeks 6–8Developed design and planning drawings
- Weeks 8–16Application submitted; councils usually decide within 8 weeks
You getA design you're happy with, and planning permission or a Lawful Development Certificate.
Detail and Building Regulations
Around 4–6 weeks
Once planning is approved, we work the design up in detail. We coordinate with a structural engineer and prepare the Building Regulations drawings and specification, so builders can price accurately and Building Control can approve the work before it starts.
- Weeks 1–4Building Regulations drawings and specification
- Weeks 2–4Structural engineer's calculations coordinated
- Weeks 4–6Building Control submission and builder pricing
You getA full set of drawings ready for Building Control and for builders to price.
Building
Usually 3–6 months on site
You can take the drawings to your own builder, or use our design and build service with J & J Construction, our local building partner. Either way, we stay on hand during the build to answer questions on the drawings, so what gets built matches what was designed.
- StartBuilder appointed and start date agreed
- DuringBuilding Control inspections at key stages
- EndCompletion certificate and handover
You getA finished extension, signed off by Building Control.
How long does an extension take?
A typical house extension takes around 4 to 6 months from our first conversation to being ready to build, including about 8 weeks for the council's planning decision. Building work then usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the size of the extension.
What do your design fees cost?
Our fees depend on the size and complexity of the project. We agree a fixed fee in writing before any work starts, so you know exactly what's included. For a rough idea of the total cost of your extension, try our cost calculator.
Do I need planning permission?
Not always. Some extensions fall under permitted development, in which case we apply for a Lawful Development Certificate to confirm the extension is lawful. We'll tell you which route your project needs at the first visit.
Can you recommend a builder?
Yes. You can use our design and build service with J & J Construction, our local building partner, or take our drawings to builders of your choice to price.
Where do you work?
We're based in Chester and work across the surrounding area, including Saltney, Hawarden, Deeside, Ellesmere Port, Flint, Mold, Wrexham and the Wirral.
How will we meet?
Usually at your home, because it's the best way to understand the house and how you use it. Later meetings can also happen by phone or video call.
Let's talk about your extension
Tell us what you're thinking and we'll arrange a first conversation, at the studio or at your home in Chester and the surrounding area.
Or call us on 01352 386493
Architectural practice for house extensions and bespoke homes in Chester and the surrounding area.
SERVICES
STUDIO
CONTACT