Simplified FAQs

Architectural Design Brief

Architectural Design Brief – Copy

Architectural Design Process

Example Design Brief for a Change of Use

Example Design Brief for a Conservatory

Example Design Brief for a Dropped Kerb

Example Design Brief for a Fence

Example Design Brief for a Garage Conversion

Example Design Brief for a Loft Conversion

Example Design Brief for a New Build House

Example Design Brief for a Single Storey Rear Extension

Example Design Brief for an Outbuilding

Example Design Brief for Driveway

Example Design Brief for Porch

Example Design Brief for Windows Installation

Formal Complaints Procedure

How to Measure Quickly, Easily, and Accurately

Architectural Design Brief

We will explain in detail the key design considerations and the information we require to produce designs that meet or surpass your expectations as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Before we can produce your architectural drawings, we need to establish and understand your design brief. Each site is unique and architectural design is very personal, what you may like another may not like, and vice versa.

Providing us with a clear brief at the start increases the likelihood of the drawings being exactly what you envisaged the first time around, saving you time and money.

Written Design Brief

We require a clear written brief that describes in as much detail as possible, what you would ideally like to achieve in terms of the architectural design. The clearer and more detailed your brief, the more likely your first draft of the drawings will match your vision.

If there are no changes to the existing building for example a change of use with no structural changes, you can simply confirm this.

For 2D Drawings for planning permission, there is no need to include details of furniture, fixtures, fittings, plumbing, electrics or structural calculations as these can’t be included in planning applications.

All the council want to see and understand at the planning stage is;

1. What does it look like externally? (Elevation drawings)
2. What is the internal layout and how will this change? (floor plan drawings)
3. How will it affect the surrounding area? (block and site plans)

For anything new that will be built or anything that you want to change, the things to consider for the design are;

Where will it be built in relation to the existing property or site? (Front, side, rear etc.
What are the proposed external dimensions? (Length, width and height)
What materials will be used for the new development? (Brick, timber, glass, UPVC cladding etc.)
What style of roof would you like? (Flat, hipped, gable, dormer etc)
Are there any windows/doors to include? (How many, what style, what size and where?)
What is the existing and proposed floor plan layout? (how many rooms are there, what is each room type and the dimensions for each room)
Will there be a staircase? (If so where from and to? If existing stairs how many steps from one floor to next? What is the height, length and width of each step

It’s important to us that the design is exactly what you want! Providing us with a clear brief will save time and avoid unnecessary design revisions.

If you request anything that is not sensible or feasible from a planning or design perspective, we will let you know and suggest alternative solutions.

However, if your ideal design brief is appropriate and there are no obvious issues, we can start working on producing your architectural drawings.

Our process is extremely efficient and in 9 out of 10 cases, the first draft of the drawings is approved by our clients.

Please note that 1 free design revision is included in your quote, any subsequent revisions would be chargeable as quoted.

Each revision can include multiple changes in the same request. For example, if it is your first request and you ask us to make 3 minor changes to the plans, this would count as 1 design revision and would be free of charge. 

Even if we attend a site visit, we always require a written brief before we can start working on the drawings. The architect will use your written brief as a checklist when preparing the drawings to ensure nothing is missed.

If we miss anything requested in writing in your original design brief or a previous design revision request, this would not be considered a new design revision and would not incur additional costs. 

However, if you have used your 1 free design revision and change your mind or remember something you forgot to include, this would be a chargeable revision. 

Don’t worry this is not an exam! If your brief is missing any essential information or anything is unclear, we will contact you to clarify.

However, the clearer and more comprehensive your brief, the faster we can produce your drawings and the more likely they will be exactly as you envisage the first time.

Site Photos

For detached houses, we need photos of the front, back and both sides.
For semi-detached houses, we need photos of the front, back and the detached side of the building.
For terraced houses, we need photos of the front and back only.
For a block of flats, we need a photo of each elevation where your flat is visible from the outside.
If the site is an open space with no buildings, we need photos to show the whole site from all angles.

Please take photos that show the whole elevation for each side, from top to bottom and left to right, without any obstructions if possible.

If you can’t take a single photo that shows the whole elevation, please take several photos that when joined together, show the whole elevation.

If there are parts missing and we can’t see the whole building or site, we can’t complete your drawings.

If you are making internal changes to the property, please include photos of the interior for each room.

If you are doing something like a fence, dropped kerb or outbuilding, that has no bearing on the interior of the property, we do not need photos or floor plans of the interior.

Rough sketch of the exterior

We are not asking you to produce accurate architectural drawings and you do not need to have any artistic talent, they can literally look like a 5-year-old drew them.

A rough sketch helps your architect visualise your proposed design and get a clearer understanding of what you want drawn up.

This increases the likelihood of the first draft of your drawings being exactly what you had in mind, which saves you time and money with unnecessary revisions.

If we asked 10 people to draw a simple 3 by 3 meter extension we would get 10 different designs.

A rough sketch limits the risk of misinterpretation, which saves you time and money.

Our architects will of course transform your rough sketches into beautiful accurate scale architectural drawings.

Existing and proposed floor plans

Floor plans are required for most planning applications if you are making changes to an existing building or are proposing a new building.

They are also required even if no changes are being made to the existing main building, but you are for example converting a garage or an outbuilding.

Even if there are no changes, we need to submit identical existing and proposed floorplans to show the council there are no changes.

Floor plans are only not required if your proposed development does not affect the existing building. For example, a fence, driveway, dropped kerb or roof-mounted solar panels that are external and do not affect the interior of the existing building in any way.

Floor plans are also not required for outline applications or planning permission in principal applications.

Thanks to OS mapping software we can see the external footprint with accurate measurements for any existing buildings or structures that already have planning permission approved. However, these maps do not show the internal layout of the rooms.

If there are previous planning applications at the site address there may be previous architect drawings including floor plans that show the current layout of the rooms with measurements. This would be all we need to draw your existing floor plans with accurate measurements.

If the property has recently been advertised on an estate agent or auction website there will likely be floor plans to show the current layout including measurements for each room. These are unlikely to meet the council’s validation criteria but should be all we need to draw your existing floor plans with accurate measurements.

If you do not have access to existing floor plans, we simply require a rough sketch to show the current internal layout with the length, width and height measurements for each room.

If you are not making any changes to the floor plan you can simply upload the same version for your proposed floor plan and note in your written brief that there are no changes to the floor plan.

If you are making changes to the internal layout we need a sketch to show what the proposed new layout (floor plan) will look like with the length, width and height measurements for each room.

If you are only making one or two minor changes it might be easier to mark on the changes on your existing floor plan and save as a copy as your proposed floor plan.

Please label what each room is, for example bedroom, bathroom, living room, office etc.

Our architects will then transform your previous plans or rough sketches into accurate scale floor plans that are correctly labelled to show what the existing and proposed layout will be.

Measurements for the proposed development

For us to prepare your architectural drawings, we require some measurements from you.

Don’t panic, you do not need to be a professional, anyone can do this, and we will explain how with easy to do this quickly and easily.

Bear in mind, thanks to OS mapping software we can see the external footprint with accurate measurements for any existing buildings or structures that already have planning permission approved but it is a good idea to cross-reference these with your measurements.

If there have been previous planning applications at the site address this might be all we require to see everything for the property as it is before your proposed changes

For anything NEW or CHANGING

For anything that is not yet built, there is nothing to see or measure, so whether we come to the site or not, we need you to tell us what you would like us to design and how big it should be.

If you are making changes to the existing property, again we can’t see or measure what is not already done, so we need to understand exactly how you wish to change the current design.

For anything EXISTING that will NOT change

Even if nothing is changing, for example, if you are simply changing the use, we still need to submit architect drawings to demonstrate this.

For the external measurements, we can usually get accurate scale measurements for the property, providing it has already had planning approved and has been added the OS mapping software. However, it is a good idea cross reference these with your own measurements.

For the interior, we require floor plans with length, width and height measurements for each room.

Exterior Measurements for Elevations

For the existing building(s) please provide the following and label them on your rough sketches to limit the risk of confusion or misinterpretation.

Height – from ground level to the highest point of the roof.
Width – from the far left-hand side to the far right-hand side.
Length – from the front to the back of the property.

For any extensions, additions or changes to the property, we need to know the proposed measurements. These can’t be measured if they don’t exist yet so you simply need to tell us the proposed size including height, length and width as applicable for any new extensions, buildings, balconies or dormers etc.

All we require is a rough sketch to show the proposed design with measurements including height, length and width.

The sketch does not need to be to scale or look good, it is simply for us to work from.

If you are buying something from a manufacturer such as a shed, prefabricated outbuilding, solar panels, heat pump, windows or doors please include these details in your design brief.

If there are multiple project components, such as an extension and a porch, we will need the dimensions for each component.

Interior Measurements for Floor Plans

Typically for any project relating to a building we need to submit existing 2D floor plans to show the internal layout of the rooms with dimensions for each.

We also need to submit proposed 2D-floor plans to show the internal layout of the rooms with proposed dimensions once the work is complete.

If your project does not impact the existing building in any way, then we usually won’t require floor plans for the existing building.

Typically Requires Floor plans – New build house, extensions, garage conversions, loft conversions, outbuildings, change of use, house in multiple occupancy (HMO) or porch.

Typically Does NOT Require Floor Plans –  decking, dropped kerb, driveway or wall, fence, roof-mounted solar panels, detached outbuilding such as a shed.

For each room, please label the room type and the following measurements:

Height – from floor to ceiling
Width – from the left-hand wall to the right-hand wall
Length – from the front to the back

The sketch does not need to be to scale or look good.

The measurements do not need to be millimeter precise, so you do not need to be a professional.

How to Measure Quickly, Easily, and Accurately - Please watch this video and read this carefully

Design Brief Checklist

Written Design Brief (as much detail as you can)
Photos (all sides of the property + internal pics if applicable)
Rough sketch (showing external design or architect drawings if you already have)
External Measurements (for each project component as applicable)
Floor Plan Sketch (with length and width for each room as applicable)

To speed the process, please send us everything that is applicable to your project as detailed above. Once we have everything we need, we can begin working on the drawings immediately.

If we require further information from you, we will let you know but it will save time if you are able to send us what require straight away.

If you have any questions about what we require please email or call us and we will be very happy to clarify what is required for your project.

Design Brief Form

Please complete the form below and include as much of the requested information as possible.

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Architectural Design Brief – Copy

We require a clear written brief that describes in as much detail as possible, what you would ideally like to achieve in terms of the architectural design. The clearer and more detailed your brief, the more likely your first draft of the drawings will match your vision.

If there are no changes to the existing building for example a change of use with no structural changes, you can simply confirm this.

For 2D Drawings for planning permission, there is no need to include details of furniture, fixtures, fittings, plumbing, electrics or structural calculations as these can’t be included in planning applications.

All the council want to see and understand at the planning stage is;

1. What does it look like externally? (Elevation drawings)

2. What is the internal layout and how will this change? (floor plan drawings)

3. How will it affect the surrounding area? (block and site plans)

For anything new that will be built or anything that you want to change, the things to consider for the design are;

Where will it be built in relation to the existing property or site? (Front, side, rear etc.)
What are the proposed external dimensions? (Length, width and height)

What materials will be used for the new development? (Brick, timber, glass, UPVC cladding etc.)

What style of roof would you like? (Flat, hipped, gable, dormer etc)

Are there any windows/doors to include? (How many, what style, what size and where?)

What is the existing and proposed floor plan layout? (how many rooms are there, what is each room type and the dimensions for each room)

Will there be a staircase? (If so where from and to? If existing stairs how many steps from one floor to next? What is the height, length and width of each step?

It’s important to us that the design is exactly what you want! Providing us with a clear brief will save time and avoid unnecessary design revisions.

If you request anything that is not sensible or feasible from a planning or design perspective, we will let you know and suggest alternative solutions.

However, if your ideal design brief is appropriate and there are no obvious issues, we can start working on producing your architectural drawings.

Our process is extremely efficient and in 9 out of 10 cases, the first draft of the drawings is approved by our clients.

Please note that 1 free design revision is included in your quote, any subsequent revisions would be chargeable as quoted.

Each revision can include multiple changes in the same request. For example, if it is your first request and you ask us to make 3 minor changes to the plans, this would count as 1 design revision and would be free of charge. 

Even if we attend a site visit, we always require a written brief before we can start working on the drawings. The architect will use your written brief as a checklist when preparing the drawings to ensure nothing is missed.

If we miss anything requested in writing in your original design brief or a previous design revision request, this would not be considered a new design revision and would not incur additional costs. 

However, if you have used your 1 free design revision and change your mind or remember something you forgot to include, this would be a chargeable revision. 

Don’t worry this is not an exam! If your brief is missing any essential information or anything is unclear, we will contact you to clarify.

However, the clearer and more comprehensive your brief, the faster we can produce your drawings and the more likely they will be exactly as you envisage the first time.

Site Photos

For every project, we require external photos of the existing property showing each elevation including the front, back and side(s) as applicable. 

You might only be doing a dropped kerb or a fence or an outbuilding in the garden. However, drawings for planning applications must include all existing buildings, boundaries and accesses, to show how your proposed development fits within the current site and the surrounding area. For us to be able to draw all of these things we need to see them.

For detached houses, we need photos of the front, back and both sides.

For semi-detached houses, we need photos of the front, back and the detached side of the building.

For terraced houses, we need photos of the front and back only.

For a block of flats, we need a photo of each elevation where your flat is visible from the outside.

If the site is an open space with no buildings, we need photos to show the whole site from all angles.

Please take photos that show the whole elevation for each side, from top to bottom and left to right, without any obstructions if possible.

If you can’t take a single photo that shows the whole elevation, please take several photos that when joined together, show the whole elevation.

If there are parts missing and we can’t see the whole building or site, we can’t complete your drawings.

If you are making internal changes to the property, please include photos of the interior for each room.

If you are doing something like a fence, dropped kerb or outbuilding, that has no bearing on the interior of the property, we do not need photos or floor plans of the interior.

Rough sketch of the exterior

If we asked 10 people to draw a simple 3 by 3 meter extension we would get 10 different designs.

A rough sketch limits the risk of misinterpretation, which saves you time and money.

Our architects will of course transform your rough sketches into beautiful accurate scale architectural drawings.

Existing and proposed floor plans

Floor plans are required for most planning applications if you are making changes to an existing building or are proposing a new building.

They are also required even if no changes are being made to the existing main building, but you are for example converting a garage or an outbuilding.

Even if there are no changes, we need to submit identical existing and proposed floorplans to show the council there are no changes.

Floor plans are only not required if your proposed development does not affect the existing building. For example, a fence, driveway, dropped kerb or roof-mounted solar panels that are external and do not affect the interior of the existing building in any way.

Floor plans are also not required for outline applications or planning permission in principal applications.

Thanks to OS mapping software we can see the external footprint with accurate measurements for any existing buildings or structures that already have planning permission approved. However, these maps do not show the internal layout of the rooms.

If there are previous planning applications at the site address there may be previous architect drawings including floor plans that show the current layout of the rooms with measurements. This would be all we need to draw your existing floor plans with accurate measurements.

If the property has recently been advertised on an estate agent or auction website there will likely be floor plans to show the current layout including measurements for each room. These are unlikely to meet the council’s validation criteria but should be all we need to draw your existing floor plans with accurate measurements.

If you do not have access to existing floor plans, we simply require a rough sketch to show the current internal layout with the length, width and height measurements for each room.

If you are not making any changes to the floor plan you can simply upload the same version for your proposed floor plan and note in your written brief that there are no changes to the floor plan.

If you are making changes to the internal layout we need a sketch to show what the proposed new layout (floor plan) will look like with the length, width and height measurements for each room.

If you are only making one or two minor changes it might be easier to mark on the changes on your existing floor plan and save as a copy as your proposed floor plan.

Please label what each room is, for example bedroom, bathroom, living room, office etc.

Our architects will then transform your previous plans or rough sketches into accurate scale floor plans that are correctly labelled to show what the existing and proposed layout will be.

Measurements for the proposed development

For anything NEW or CHANGING

For anything that is not yet built, there is nothing to see or measure, so whether we come to the site or not, we need you to tell us what you would like us to design and how big it should be.

If you are making changes to the existing property, again we can’t see or measure what is not already done, so we need to understand exactly how you wish to change the current design.

For anything EXISTING that will NOT change

Even if nothing is changing, for example, if you are simply changing the use, we still need to submit architect drawings to demonstrate this.

For the external measurements, we can usually get accurate scale measurements for the property, providing it has already had planning approved and has been added the OS mapping software. However, it is a good idea cross reference these with your own measurements.

For the interior, we require floor plans with length, width and height measurements for each room.

Exterior Measurements for Elevations

For the existing building(s) please provide the following and label them on your rough sketches to limit the risk of confusion or misinterpretation.

Height – from ground level to the highest point of the roof.
Width – from the far left-hand side to the far right-hand side

Length – from the front to the back of the property

For any extensions, additions or changes to the property, we need to know the proposed measurements. These can’t be measured if they don’t exist yet so you simply need to tell us the proposed size including height, length and width as applicable for any new extensions, buildings, balconies or dormers etc.

All we require is a rough sketch to show the proposed design with measurements including height, length and width.

The sketch does not need to be to scale or look good, it is simply for us to work from.

If you are buying something from a manufacturer such as a shed, prefabricated outbuilding, solar panels, heat pump, windows or doors please include these details in your design brief.

If there are multiple project components, such as an extension and a porch, we will need the dimensions for each component.

Interior Measurements for Floor Plans

Typically for any project relating to a building we need to submit existing 2D floor plans to show the internal layout of the rooms with dimensions for each.

We also need to submit proposed 2D-floor plans to show the internal layout of the rooms with proposed dimensions once the work is complete.

If your project does not impact the existing building in any way, then we usually won’t require floor plans for the existing building.

Typically Requires Floor plans – New build house, extensions, garage conversions, loft conversions, outbuildings, change of use, house in multiple occupancy (HMO) or porch.

Typically Does NOT Require Floor Plans –  decking, dropped kerb, driveway or wall, fence, roof-mounted solar panels, detached outbuilding such as a shed.

For each room, please label the room type and the following measurements:

Height – from floor to ceiling
Width – from the left-hand wall to the right-hand wall

Length – from the front to the back

The sketch does not need to be to scale or look good.

The measurements do not need to be millimeter precise, so you do not need to be a professional.

However, in a video, we’ll explain and show you how to measure quickly, easily and accurately.

LINK TO VIDEO

Once we receive your design brief our architects will produce the accurate plans as soon as possible, usually within 7 days of receiving your brief. However, larger or more complex projects can take a bit longer.

Whether we conduct a site visit or a remote survey, the result is exactly the same, accurate scale drawings, which every client approves with 100% satisfaction. The difference is a remote survey saves you time and money!!

Of course, if you still have any questions, want to schedule a design consultation with one of our architects or arrange a physical site survey, just let us know and we’ll gladly help with anything you need.

Design Brief Form

Please complete the form below and include as much of the requested information as possible.

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Architectural Design Process

Thank you for choosing Planning By Design. Once you have confirmed whether your project is feasible the next step in every project is to prepare the required architect drawings, which our chartered architects will prepare for you.

By the end of this article, you will know what architect drawings are required as a minimum for most planning applications and how we can help transform your initial idea into beautiful accurate scale architect drawings that will give your planning application the best chance of success.

Architectural design, like fashion, is very personal, what you may like another may not like, and vice versa. Each project, site and design is unique. If you view our portfolio you will see that there are many extensions yet no two are the same.

So, the first step is to establish what you ideally want it to look like. Most of our clients have a good idea of what they ideally want to achieve when they contact us.

However, when it comes to architectural design for your project, if you need a little guidance or inspiration, we can arrange a design consultation with one of our architects for a small fee.

When we provide a design consultation with one of our architects, we still require confirmation of your design brief in writing. This ensures we have a written record of exactly what you ask us to design, and we use this as a checklist while producing your architect drawings.

Thanks to our incredibly efficient process, the first version of the architectural drawings are usually exactly what the client envisages. This saves time and money with design revisions while ensuring the design is exactly what you want.

It also offers additional protection for both parties, if anything that was requested in writing is overlooked it would not count as a revision. Conversely, if new ideas are proposed that were not previously mentioned, these may count as a design revision.

Once we have received and understood your design brief, we aim to have the drawings sent for your review and approval within 7 days. However, for larger or more complex projects it can take a bit longer.

What is required?

Almost every application will require the following as a minimum;

Existing and Proposed Elevations - 2D drawings showing the property before and after works are complete.
Existing and Proposed Floor Plans - 2D drawings showing the internal layout, rooms only, no fixtures, fittings, or furniture.
Existing and Proposed Block Plan - These are maps to show the location of the site, its boundaries, and any changes that will occur.
Site Location Plan - A larger map showing where the property is located so the council can assess the impact on the wider area.

Even for a change of use where there are no changes to the building, we still need to submit the above as this the only way the council can assess and confirm there are no changes.

Even if you are only doing something minor like a fence or dropped kerb, the architect's drawings still need to show the whole property from each side before and after. If we just send a drawing of a fence or dropped kerb the council will not validate the application.

For any retrospective planning applications, although the construction may have already been completed, we still need to show existing elevations that show what the property looked like before and proposed elevations showing what it looks like now.

To see some examples please check out our Portfolio: (click on any project to view all the required drawings and planning statements etc for each application)

How can we produce accurate architect drawings remotely?

These days 99% of householder developments and smaller scale commercial developments, such as a change of use, do not require a site visit and are instead done via a remote survey.

We understand that for those who are not chartered architects, it might be hard to understand how we can produce accurate architect drawings without a site visit.

For your information, here is an overview of how we are able do this;

The existing property prior to development or changes, does not need planning permission. There will already be planning permission granted and potentially plans available via the planning portal from previous applications. If drawings are available from a previous application this is likely all we require to produce new drawings for your proposed development.

The existing property will already be shown with accurate external measurements on OS mapping tools which our architects use to produce accurate drawings.

For anything that is not yet built, there is nothing to see or measure. We can only draw according to your brief, which is the same whether we pop round for a cup of tea, have zoom or receive it in writing. We always require your brief in writing regardless of whether we discuss the brief in person or over a zoom / phone call, so that we have a written record of what you want.

For most smaller scale developments, people usually have a clear idea of exactly what they want, so can easily provide a written brief detailing this. However, for larger or more complex developments, such as new build houses, sometimes clients require a little guidance or inspiration, which we are happy to help with.

When we conduct a site visit, our architects take photos to work from when they are back at their computer. They can see the same from a photo as they can when on site and they need photos to keep referring to during the process.

If there are floor plans available on the planning portal from a previous application that reflect the current layout this is all we need. If the property has recently been advertised on an estate agent website or auction site, there will usually be floor plans available, which would likely be all we require. Even if there are existing floor plans, they are unlikely to pass the councils validation criteria, so our architects still need to produce accurate floor plans with scale measurements.

Where there are no existing floor plans available, all we require is a rough sketch with approximate dimensions for each room. These do not need to be millimetre precise, so you do not need to be a professional architect.

Only once we have everything required to clearly understand your brief, our architect will start working on your drawings. We aim to have these sent for your review and approval within 7 days.

If any changes are required to the drawings, we will of course take care of these and send the revised drawings back for your approval. Only once you are 100% happy the design is exactly what you want will we proceed to the next stage, with your approval.

Whether we conduct a site visit or a remote survey, the result is exactly the same, accurate scale drawings, which every client approves with 100% satisfaction. The only difference is that with a remote survey you save time and money!!

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Example Design Brief for a Change of Use

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a Change of Use. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Our proposal is of change of use from a residential 5 bedroomed home to children’s home for up to 3 young people , this will be registered with OFSTED and service user will be those of Mental illness , the service will work the local authorities , commissioning groups and other independent stakeholders to set up bespoke placements for young people tailored to their needs whether the placement is closer to their community or if their needs indicates placement should be away from their community.

The residence is currently a end of terrace on a row of terraces with no through road, across from the row of houses there is a council ran homing association with 3 car parks available to residents ( these care parks are not used to capacity).

At the back of the residence there is a large park and so is not over looked. There is a lane at the back of the row of terraces which has access to all the houses.

The residence is currently owned by______ on a mortgage and is currently lived in by my family , this is lease hold yet no ground rent has been taken for a number of years since being lived in an I have attached the local searches to have a greater understanding .

There is no desire or reason to change the floorplan of the building, yet fire doors in the appropriate rooms will be changed and appropriate fire alarm with fire risk assessment to inform this, emergency lighting potentially fitted also.

The residence from the front door has a hallway that leads to two living rooms and the Kitchen , at the back to the kitchen there is a further Dining room , Backdoor is from the kitchen and leads to a small garden with a patio area 9m2 , 12m2 area that is currently astro turfed and raised beds for plants etc. , there is a gate to the side of the house for maintenance and a gate to the back lane.

Under the stair there are stairs to a cellar ( this is not habitable and is storage for minimal things – this would be deemed to be locked off and not part of the proposed usage of the home , yet would be checked only for maintenance of the property as expected and locked off .)
On the first floor there is a small cloakroom toilet with handbasin and toilet ,window to the side of the house , another communal bathroom with both shower and bath , sink , and basis with window to the side of the house , there are 3 double sized bedrooms and 2 single bedrooms , one bedroom situated between cloakroom and bathroom is proposed office that will be used as sleep are for staff also , and single bedroom at the front of the bedroom that will be used as sleep are for staff on 24 hour shift .

Other double bedrooms will be used for young people and to the appropriate standards of registration, there will be no change to the floor plan , only adjustments would be to the doors of the bedrooms to be fire risk assessment as expected .

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Measurement details on the sketches.

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Conservatory

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a Conservatory. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Hi again!

The plan is to convert this lean to into a conservatory.

I’m attaching the frames and the doors already done - but not yet painted.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

The existing iron canopy is 2.45m in height and 3.98m in depth.
The conservatory will be enclosed by glass, using the existing canopy as a frame.

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Dropped Kerb

To help you easily visualise what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a simple dropped kerb. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Hi Abigail

Many thanks please find attached better image with better measurements though still approx as our better measure still only goes to 5 m lol.

As for the design brief we are quite flexible we would ideally like planning for a driveway with dropped curb at the front of our property this is for safe disabled access as my husband is registered disabled. We would prefer to go for a hard surface with appropriate drainage there will be a slight slope from the road towards the house which will at least mean no water run off will run into the A60. We are happy to take the whole of the front wall out if this is what it will take to get permission and meet visibility requirements of highways but would also be ok to keep the two gate columns and bit of wall in between (shown on left hand side of measurement image 1.2m) if required to mitigate concerns of safety of the telegraph pole and risks of it being clipped. We would like the driveway to also include the area to the side of the house.

Hope this is OK please let me know if you need anything further.

Kind regards

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Length at the rear of the house 7.5 meters
Width at the rear of the house 7 meters
Length of the driveway alongside the house 4.64 meters
Width of the driveway alongside the house 3.6 meters

Floor Plans

Not applicable for this particular project, as nothing is changing with the house or the floor plans.

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Fence

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of Fence. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Hello Abigail,

Following further discussions and my inability to provide drawings for the design brief, I can provide the following:

A set of new photos (enclosed)

The dimensions

Front Elevation 7.67 meters

Back Elevation. 5.62 meters

Side Elevation 26.26 meters

The existing height of the fencing is 1.2 meters and we would like to increase this to a height of 1.8 meters.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Client could not provide any sketch.

Measurements for the proposed development

To increase height of the fencing to a 1.8 meters.

Floor Plans

Client could not provide any floor plans.

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Garage Conversion

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a Garage Conversion. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

I am looking to convert my home garage into a professionally soundproofed music studio, plus a small waiting room and storage space.

As a professional drummer, I will look to use the studio for recording, my own practice - and also to teach face-to-face lessons from, two nights a week, from about 4pm - 6pm/6:30pm. As seen from the photos, there is ample parking for visiting students, and also a village hall nearby with more parking available.

The garage has an existing side access door through our back garden which will be the sole access point. The exterior of the garage won't be changed, except the main 'up and over' garage door, which I will look to replace with a roll-up door. The reason for this is so I can access a small storage space from the main garage door, so I can load equipment straight into the car for gigs, other rehearsals etc. The waiting room will not be accessed from the main garage door, and will be completely blocked off from this. If you were to open the roll-up garage door, the left half would be the storage area, and the right half would be the wall of the waiting room.

The garage is linked to two other garages (one is used as a gym), however the studio will be a 'room within a room' type soundproofing, and there will also be the waiting room + storage space in between the studio itself and the main garage door, so sound leakage will be kept to a minimum.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Length from rear wall to garage door - 6.1m
Width - 3.025m
Max height of garage (in the middle) - 4.325m
Height where sloping roof meets rear wall - 2.6m
Height where sloping roof meets front wall - 2.6m

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Loft Conversion

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a simple Loft Conversion. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Convert loft into bedroom with ensuite, move boiler from cupboard in kitchen to void space within loft with access panel.

Convert the cupboard in kitchen to a stairwell by blocking up existing door + fitting door to side of the cupboard that faces the lounge + using space saver stairs Inside proposed loft, stud wall around stair opening to create a "hallway" with high ceiling.

Within the loft space as you exit the top of the stairs have a window in the gable end around 1200mm wide Bathroom to right 4 Velux opening windows within the loft space 1x for bathroom 3 for bedroom.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Measurement details on the sketches.

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

window.df_option_5138 = {"source":"https:\/\/planning-by-design.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/704.pdf","viewerType":"flipbook","is3D":true,"showDownloadControl":false,"slug":"architect-drawings-and-planning-permission-for-a-loft-conversion-5","id":5138}; if(window.DEARPDF && window.DEARPDF.parseElements){window.DEARPDF.parseElements();}

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Example Design Brief for a New Build House

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a simple New Build House. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

There was no written design brief from the client. Client provided information regarding a proposed new build 3 bedroom house by the phone and sent hand drown floor plans.

Site Photos

No photo provided

Rough sketch of what you envisage

No sketch provided

Measurements for the proposed development

Measurements on the hand drown floor plans

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for a Single Storey Rear Extension

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of a simple Single Storey Extension (rear). Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

The extension from the dinning area, it retains the original building of the kitchen.

The extension scale is about - length: 6 m, width: 6m to 8m, height: 3-4m.

Both sides are brick cavity wall, the front is brick cavity wall with double glazed sliding door.

The roof is flat roof with one or two roof window.

Please refer the photos I sent before for reference. And the similar shape complete extension as additional photo 3.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

• 6m depth
• 8m width
• 3m eaves height (if the structure is less than 2m from the
boundary line)
• 4m (overall height)

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for an Outbuilding

To help you easily visualise what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example for an Outbuilding. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

Build log cabin in rear garden at the back of the garden. To be used as a beauty salon.

Proposed external dimensions: L:5m D:4m H:2.5m

Material: Timber with x2 UPVC windows 1 UPVC French doors on the front.

Flat Edm rubber roof.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Proposed external dimensions: L:5m D:4m H:2.5m

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for Driveway

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of Driveway. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

I would like to make a planning application for removal of the low fronting wall to form new access for the parking of one vehicle and associated hardstanding.

I applied for planning 6 months ago my self but application has been refused, I did not do drawings.

Please see attached pictures.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

No sketch has been provided

Measurements for the proposed development

Floor Plans

Not applicable for a driveway.

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for Porch

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of Porch. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

I would like to make a planning application. Front porch and loft conversion.

Ground Floor Front.

Remove the bow window from the front and replace with a flat window.

Install a porch across the width of my property (boundary to boundary) with a depth of 1m making it in line with Road porch depth. Please see on google earth and attached picture.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Floor to ceiling measurements

Ground Floor – 262 cm

First floor – 260 cm

First floor bathroom – 264 cm

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

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Example Design Brief for Windows Installation

To help you easily visualize what we require from you for your design brief and what we will then produce with this information, here is an example of Windows Installation. Below is everything we received from the client together with the final architect drawings, which have now had planning permission approved.

Written Design Brief

I wish to create a loft space usable for storage and a train and scalextrix set by insulating the rafters and gable ends, adding a Velux window to allow daylight in.

Site Photos

Rough sketch of what you envisage

Measurements for the proposed development

Measurement details on the sketches.

Floor Plans

Using this information we produce a full set of architect drawings like this:

window.df_option_5937 = {"source":"https:\/\/planning-by-design.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/886-compressed-1.pdf","viewerType":"flipbook","is3D":true,"showDownloadControl":false,"slug":"architect-drawings-and-planning-permission-for-installation-of-a-rooflight","id":5937}; if(window.DEARPDF && window.DEARPDF.parseElements){window.DEARPDF.parseElements();}

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Formal Complaints Procedure

Introduction

At Planning By Design, we are committed to providing the highest standard of service to our clients. As an RTPI and ARB accredited planning and design consultancy, we value feedback and take complaints seriously. This procedure outlines the steps to ensure all complaints are handled promptly, fairly, and consistently.

How to Make a Complaint

Clients can make a complaint through the following channels:

Website Contact Form: https://planning-by-design.co.uk/
Email: Send an email to hello@planning-by-design.co.uk
Phone: Call us at 03300 881249.

Initial Handling of Complaints

First Point of Contact:

Upon receiving a complaint, our first point of contact will acknowledge receipt within 3 business days.
They will endeavour to resolve the matter promptly and informally, if possible.
A record of the complaint and actions taken will be documented.

Escalation to Senior Management:

If the initial point of contact is unable to resolve the complaint, it will be escalated to senior management.
Senior management will review the details of the complaint, investigate the matter thoroughly, and seek to resolve the issue.

Response Timeframe

A formal response to the complaint will be provided within 30 days from the date of escalation.
If the investigation requires more time, the client will be informed of the delay and provided with a revised timeline.

Further Recourse

If the client is not satisfied with the resolution provided by senior management, they have the right to escalate the complaint to the relevant professional bodies:

Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI): Clients can contact the RTPI to raise concerns about planning-related issues.
Architects Registration Board (ARB): For issues related to architectural services, clients can contact the ARB.

Contact Information for RTPI and ARB

RTPI:
Website: https://www.rtpi.org.uk
Phone: 020 7929 8194
Email: conduct@rtpi.org.uk

ARB:
Website: ARB website
Phone: 020 7580 5861
Email: info@arb.org.uk

Review and Improvement

We regularly review our complaints procedure to ensure it remains effective and aligned with best practices. Client feedback is integral to this process, and we welcome suggestions for improvement.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

All complaints are handled with the utmost confidentiality and in accordance with data protection regulations. Personal data will only be used for the purpose of addressing the complaint and will be stored securely.

Conclusion

We strive to resolve all complaints in a professional and timely manner. Our goal is to ensure client satisfaction and continually improve our services based on your feedback. If you have any questions about this procedure, please contact us.

This formal complaints procedure ensures clarity and transparency, providing a structured approach for clients to voice their concerns and seek resolutions.

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How to Measure Quickly, Easily, and Accurately

https://youtu.be/6n_q4a2O73U?si=VqrxewVurJHXn3bV

In this guide, we'll cover effective methods to measure quickly, easily, and accurately including:

Using an AR measuring app on a mobile phone - recommended!
Using a tape measure
Measuring exterior elevations
Measuring interior floor plans

Measuring with an AR Measuring App on a Mobile Phone - Recommended

Step-by-Step Guide:

Download and Open the App: Choose an AR measuring app such as Air Measure or AR Ruler and download it for free from Google Play or App Store.
Calibrate the App: Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the app, which may involve moving your phone around.
Select Start and End Points: Point your phone’s camera at the starting point of the object or distance you want to measure. Tap the screen to mark the start point.
Move to the End Point: Move your phone’s camera to the end point of the object or distance and tap the screen to mark it.
Read the Measurement: The app will display the measurement on the screen.
Save or Record the Measurement: Most apps allow you to save a screenshot of the measurement or record it manually.

Tips:

Ensure good lighting and a clear view of the points you are measuring.
Keep your hand steady while marking the points.

Measuring with a Tape Measure

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare the Tape Measure: Extend the tape measure and lock it in place if it has a locking mechanism.
Align the Tape: Position the start of the tape measure (marked as '0') at one end of the object or distance you want to measure.
Pull the Tape: Extend the tape measure to the other end of the object or distance, ensuring it is straight and taut.
Read the Measurement: Look at the point where the end of the object or distance meets the tape measure. Read the measurement on the tape.
Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement for future reference.

Tips:

Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted.
Use the tape measure’s locking mechanism to keep it in place while you read the measurement.
Double-check measurements for accuracy.

Measuring Exterior Elevations

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose Your Tools: Use a tape measure, laser measure, or AR measuring app.
Measure Width: Start by measuring the width of the exterior wall at the base. Use a tape measure or laser measure for accuracy.
Measure Height: Measure the height from the base to the top of the wall or roofline. A laser measure can be particularly useful for this.
Measure Lenght: Measure from front to back the length of the wall.
Record Measurements: Write down all measurements, noting the location of each.

Tips:

For your safety, if you need to measure anything that is high we strongly recommend using an AR measuring app!
Double-check all measurements, especially if using a tape measure.

Measuring Interior Floor Plans

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose Your Tools: Use a tape measure or AR measuring app.
Measure Walls: Measure the length of each wall from corner to corner. Record the measurements.
Measure Height: Measure from floor to ceiling and record the measurement.
Measure Doors and Windows: Measure the height and width of doors and windows, as well as their distance from corners.
Create a Floor Plan: Draw a rough sketch of the floor plan and input the measurements.
Double-Check: Verify all measurements for accuracy.