Our Services

Before any drawing begins, we take time to understand what you are really trying to achieve. That means an honest conversation about your goals, your budget and whether the project as you are imagining it is the right approach for your property.

From there, we develop a detailed project brief — setting out spatial requirements, quality aspirations and any site-specific constraints. Where appropriate, we will also advise on appointing additional consultants at this stage, such as a structural engineer or cost consultant, to ground the brief in realistic parameters from the outset.

This is where the design takes its first tangible shape. Working from the agreed brief, we prepare initial concept designs — sketches, diagrams and three-dimensional studies that explore different architectural approaches and test ideas against your brief and budget.

The aim is not to produce finished drawings but to open up possibilities. Your feedback at this stage is essential: concept design is a collaborative process, and the goal is to arrive at a single clear direction that everyone is confident in before the design is developed further.

With the concept agreed, we develop the design to the level of detail required for a planning application and, where relevant, listed building consent. This involves preparing detailed drawings, elevations and supporting documentation — including heritage statements, design and access statements, and commissioning of any specialist reports required by the planning authority.

Navigating the Scottish planning system is something we do regularly, and we will guide you through the process clearly at every step. A successful planning decision is a significant milestone in the project timeline.

Once planning permission is in place, attention turns to how the building will actually be constructed. We prepare a comprehensive set of technical drawings and specifications covering every aspect of the build — materials, structure, insulation, window and door details, and the coordination of all building services.

This information is first submitted to the Local Authority for Building Warrant approval under the Scottish Building Standards, and then provides contractors with everything they need to price the work accurately. A thorough technical design package minimises the risk of unforeseen costs and on-site complications.

With a contractor appointed, work on site begins. Our role during construction is to act as contract administrator — inspecting the works regularly, answering queries from the site team, managing the construction contract, and certifying payments at the appropriate stages.

We remain closely involved throughout, ensuring the design is being built as intended and that any issues are resolved quickly and correctly. Clear communication between client, architect and contractor is the foundation of a well-run project.

As construction draws to a close, we carry out a thorough inspection of the completed works and prepare a snagging list of any items requiring attention before practical completion is certified. You will also receive a building manual containing all relevant certificates and maintenance guidance.

We don't simply hand over and walk away. Six to twelve months after completion, we welcome the opportunity to revisit the project — to hear how the building is performing in practice, and to ensure you are getting the full benefit of what has been designed and built.