What Happens at Each Stage of the Architectural Process?

  • October 2025
  • Kieron Peaty

When you're planning to extend, renovate or build a new home, it can feel hard to know where to begin. We believe the process should feel calm, clear and collaborative — not overwhelming. That's why we put together this quick guide, to walk you through each stage of the architectural journey. It's based on our process and the years of experience we have working with homeowners across Essex. We’ve also highlighted where key sustainable decisions can be made to shape a future-friendly home.

What Happens at Each Stage of the Architectural Process

1. Brief & Feasibility

Every project starts with a conversation. We'll meet with you at your home (or online), listen to your goals, and explore what’s possible on your site — in terms of planning, budget, and design potential.

Key outcomes:

  • Defined project brief and wish list

  • Site and planning constraints identified

  • Sustainability goals discussed (e.g. low energy, natural materials)

This is the time to dream — and define your ambitions.

 


2. Concept Design

We begin translating your brief into ideas — exploring layout, form, light and flow. You'll receive clear, visual proposals that reflect your goals and budget.

Key outcomes:

  • Sketch proposals with multiple design options

  • Advice on materials, structure and sustainable systems

  • First thoughts on energy performance and daylighting

Here’s where low-energy design principles (like orientation and insulation strategy) can be embedded early.

 


3. Planning & Permissions

Once a preferred design direction is agreed, we prepare and submit your planning application — or confirm the project qualifies under permitted development rights.

Key outcomes:

  • Drawings and planning documents submitted

  • Liaison with planning officers as needed

  • Conservation, biodiversity and local policy considerations addressed

We advocate for thoughtful, contextual design that’s sensitive to both place and planet.

 


4. Technical Design & Building Regulations

After approval, we turn your design into a robust technical package. These drawings are used for pricing and construction — covering insulation, structure, heating, ventilation and more.

Key outcomes:

  • Building regulations drawings and compliance

  • Details on windows, materials, U-values, air tightness

  • Coordination with structural and environmental consultants

This is where sustainable intentions become technical solutions — like triple glazing, MVHR, and natural insulation.

 


5. Tender & Pricing

We help you select suitable contractors and get accurate pricing based on the technical package. This stage is crucial for managing cost expectations before starting on site.

Key outcomes:

  • Tender documents issued to selected builders

  • Tender analysis and contractor recommendation

  • Clarification of sustainable specification options

We make sure sustainability is costed accurately — and not value-engineered out.

 


6. Construction & Contract Administration

Once the build begins, we can remain involved to oversee quality, handle queries and make sure the project stays on track.

Key outcomes:

  • Regular site visits and progress checks

  • Valuations, instructions and change management

  • Final sign-off at completion

We ensure that energy performance and material choices are delivered as designed.

 


7. Aftercare

Even after you move in, we’re here to support you. We help resolve any snags, provide advice on maintaining your home, and ensure your expectations are met.

Key outcomes:

  • Post-occupancy review and support

  • Advice on systems, warranties and seasonal performance

  • Lessons learned for future upgrades or phases

We love hearing how your space performs in real life — especially when it runs warm with little energy input.

 


Every Stage Matters

We believe good architecture is about more than how something looks. It’s about how it works, feels and lasts. By guiding you calmly through every stage — and building in sustainable thinking from the start — we help create homes that are better to live in, better for the future, and beautifully designed around your life.

Ready to start your own journey? Get in touch — we’d love to help.

We'd love to hear from you.

Book your free consultation to tell us more about your project and to find out how we can help.