During our extensive years working in the architectural industry, we have encountered many myths about the planning and construction phases of a project. We have put together these useful explanations to help you understand more.

Complexity of planning:

Achieving planning permission varies greatly between properties. A neighbour successfully getting planning permission does not guarantee it for you. Many factors such as site location, planning history of the property and property status will strongly influence the outcome.

Project timescales:

Many clients believe they can design a project and begin the build within 3 months. This unfortunately is not the case as many factors affect the timeline. Councils can take several months to indicate if the build can begin. Sourcing builders can often take time and is based on their availability and additional technical drawings are usually required..

Setting realistic budgets:

Customers sometimes believe that the budget they have in mind will be sufficient to realise all the alterations that they have in mind. This is often based on false expectations and a lack of understanding of all the steps required. At SBA we endeavour to design to the client’s budget and help to expertly guide them through the process from start to finish.

Understanding the process:

Many clients underestimate the number of steps required to receive a licence to build from the local authority. Furthermore, how much information a builder requires to provide accurate quotations and undertake the construction is often misconstrued. Throughout the process, we guide our clients through the planning application and building phase to verify all the necessary steps are taken.

Understanding the environment:

“I need you to simply draw up my idea and submit it for planning”. Unfortunately, the process is usually more involved than that. This usually requires investigation and often supporting statements. SBA can help you understand questions such as how much bigger your house could be. Factors including environmental restrictions such as green belt, AONB, conservation area and listed building status, often have huge influence on project outcomes.

I don’t need an Architectural Designer:

Clients often assume the ideas they have in mind are easily achievable. The construction process is complicated and it is important that any design changes are well-conceived and do not compromise the integrity of the building. Our design process not only achieves the aesthetic results you are looking for but we make sure the design is functional, efficient and regulation compliant.