An Architectural Technologist focuses on the technical side of building design, making sure spaces work well and perform at their best. They’re trained to handle everything from developing the design and gaining statutory approvals to seeing the build through to completion.

Statutory approvals are the mandatory legal permissions required before undertaking certain building works or changes in property use; typically these are planning permission and building control approval.

Planning authorities consider land use, building appearance, access, landscaping, and impacts on neighbours. Planning permission is how you check with your local authority if certain building work is allowed. They approve (sometimes with conditions) or refuse applications based on local policies.

You’ll generally need planning permission for major changes, new builds, or changes of use. However, many smaller home improvements fall under permitted development rights (PDR), meaning permission isn’t required—though PDR may be restricted in conservation areas or sensitive locations.

If permission is needed, it must be granted before work starts, or enforcement action may follow.

Building regulations set standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure safety, health, welfare, and energy efficiency.

In most cases, you’ll need building control approval before starting work—especially for structural changes, extensions, services like heating or electrics, insulation, or anything affecting fire safety, accessibility, or energy performance.

Compliance is mandatory, and local authorities can enforce changes or take legal action if standards aren’t met.

Your initial consultation is a chance for me to understand your goals, what works (and doesn’t) in your current space, and your budget.

It helps if you can share any inspiration—photos, links, or ideas—so I can get a sense of your style.

The consultation takes place at your property, allowing me to assess the space, flag any challenges, and advise on required approvals.

After the visit, I’ll provide a detailed, no-obligation quotation and a written summary of our discussion.

Once you accept the quotation, I’ll carry out a detailed survey and create initial floor plans on site to minimise errors. These will be developed into sketch plans and elevations, including fixtures, fittings and suggested layouts, and sent to you within a few days for feedback. We’ll make any changes needed until the design is finalised.

If planning permission isn’t required, we’ll move straight to construction drawings for your contractor. If permission or a Lawful Development Certificate is needed, I’ll submit all of the documentation to your local authority for approval. The decision period for planning approvals is typically six weeks from validation.

Most projects require a Full Plans building control application, involving the addition of detailed construction drawings with critical dimensions, sections, electrical and plumbing layouts, and schedules for windows and doors.

I’ll also prepare a technical specification outlining materials, methods, and workmanship standards. If structural changes are needed, I collaborate with a structural engineer for the necessary calculations.

The complete package is submitted to your chosen building inspector for review. Decisions usually take about five weeks. Once approved, the full drawing package is ready to share with contractors for quotes, meetings, and selecting a builder.