Architectural design in Cambridge and the surrounding area
Why Choose SturdyBuild Over an Architect?
When planning a renovation, extension, or loft conversion, you might think hiring an architect is the only option. But with SturdyBuild, you gain the expertise of an in-house architectural designer combined with a practical, builder-led approach—offering significant advantages for your project:
1. Seamless Design and Build Integration
Our in-house designer works directly with our construction team, ensuring your designs are both creative and buildable. No miscommunication, no unrealistic concepts—just designs that work in the real world.
2. Cost-Effective Solutions
Architect fees can be costly. By choosing us, you benefit from professional design expertise at a more competitive price, with no compromise on quality or creativity.
3. Practical Expertise
We approach design with construction in mind, offering practical solutions that save you time, money, and stress during the build phase. We design what we know can be achieved within your budget and timeline.
4. Faster Turnaround
With our integrated team, the design-to-build process moves faster. We streamline communication and approvals, so your project progresses smoothly.
5. Local Knowledge and Expertise
We specialize in building across Cambridge and the surrounding villages, meaning we’re familiar with local planning regulations and have established relationships with trusted suppliers and subcontractors.
6. A Complete, Turnkey Service
From design and planning permissions to construction and finishing touches, SturdyBuild provides everything you need under one roof. No juggling multiple professionals—just a single point of contact throughout your project.
Choose SturdyBuild for a smarter, more efficient way to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to discuss how we can help with your next building project!
Our Process for Design Projects
At SturdyBuild, we make the design process seamless and straightforward, providing expert guidance at every stage. Here’s how we manage design projects:
1. Survey and Initial Consultation
Our designer will visit your property to discuss your vision, requirements, and budget while taking detailed measurements and assessing the existing structure. This ensures we have all the information needed to create plans that are both practical and tailored to your specific needs.
2. Concept Design
We will produce concept floor plans and elevations based on your requirements and preferences. These detailed layouts provide a clear representation of your project’s potential, laying the foundation for the next stages.
3. Revisions and Feedback
Your feedback is invaluable. We’ll work with you to refine the designs, ensuring they align with your vision and meet any specific requirements you may have.
4. Detailed Drawings for Planning Applications
Depending on the project, this could involve an application for Full Planning Permission.
For Permitted Development projects, we recommend submitting the plans to the Council for a Certificate of Lawful Development. While not mandatory, this provides official confirmation that your project complies with Permitted Development regulations, offering peace of mind.
For certain larger single-storey extensions, there is also a third process called Prior Approval. This involves submitting plans to the Council to confirm that the proposed works meet neighbourhood consultation requirements.
We will advise on the best route for your project during the initial design stage to ensure the correct application process is followed.
5. Building Regulation Drawings and Structural Calculations (Optional)
Once Planning Permission or Prior Approval has been granted, we can provide Building Regulation drawings and arrange Structural Calculations for projects requiring more technical detail.
Full plans Building Regulation drawings are typically required for larger or more complex projects to ensure compliance with building regulations.
For smaller projects, we can submit a Building Notice to Building Control, which simplifies the process as detailed Building Regulation plans are not required.
During the initial design stage, we will advise you on whether to proceed with a Full Plans Application or a Building Notice, depending on the size and complexity of your project.
6. Collaboration with Our Build Team
As a building company with in-house design expertise, we ensure seamless integration between the design and construction phases. Our team reviews the plans to confirm they are practical, efficient, and within budget.
7. Project Costing
We provide a transparent and detailed cost breakdown based on the finalised design. This includes all materials, labour, and any additional elements required for the build phase.
8. Approval and Scheduling
Once you approve the design and costings, we will schedule the project and prepare for construction.
9. Handover to the Build Team
The finalised plans are handed over to our construction team, ensuring a smooth transition from design to execution.
No Obligation to Build with Us
While we would be delighted to complete your build, there is no obligation to use SturdyBuild for the construction phase. Once your designs and drawings are complete, you are welcome to obtain quotes from other builders if you wish.
Our comprehensive approach ensures your design project is handled professionally and efficiently from start to finish. Contact us today to discuss your ideas and let’s start designing your dream space!
Start your project today by purchasing a Survey Package along with a Loft and/or Extension Design Package. Alternatively, you can purchase the Survey Package now and select your design package at a later time.
FAQs – SturdyBuild Architectural Design Service
1. What does your architectural design service include?
Our architectural design service includes a site visit and survey, concept floor plans and elevations, revisions based on your feedback, and detailed planning application drawings. We can also produce Building Regulation drawings and arrange structural calculations if required.
2. Can you help with planning permission?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Planning Permission and a very high success rate with applications to Cambridge City Council, Huntingdonshire District Council, and South Cambridgeshire District Council. We handle the submission process on your behalf, ensuring compliance with local regulations. You will be responsible for any fees due to the council.
3. What is the difference between a Building Regulations Full Plans Application and a Building Notice?
A Full Plans Application involves submitting detailed drawings to Building Control for approval before work begins. This is typically required for larger or more complex projects.
A Building Notice is a simpler process suitable for smaller projects where detailed plans are not required. It allows work to start more quickly, but it relies on inspections throughout the build to ensure compliance.
We can advise you on the best approach for your project during the initial design stage.
4. Can I use your architectural design service without using your build team?
Absolutely. There is no obligation to use SturdyBuild for the construction phase. Once your designs and drawings are complete, you are welcome to obtain quotes from other builders if you wish.
5. How do I start the architectural design process?
You can begin by purchasing a Survey Package online. Once the survey is complete, you can add a design package for a loft conversion, extension, or a combination of projects, such as an extension and internal alterations.
6. What if I need revisions to the plans?
Two revisions are included as part of the service to ensure the final design aligns with your vision and requirements. Should significant revisions be required beyond this, additional charges may apply.
7. Are Building Regulation drawings included in the design package?
Building Regulation drawings are optional and can be added to your architectural design package if required. These are typically necessary for larger or more complex projects to ensure compliance with regulations.
8. Can you arrange structural calculations?
Yes, we can arrange structural calculations through approved engineers if your project requires them, such as for load-bearing walls or steel beams.
9. Do you provide 3D visualisations?
Our architectural design packages focus on floor plans and elevations. If 3D visuals are required, we can discuss additional services at an extra cost.
10. What areas do you cover?
Our build service is available within a 15-mile radius of Cambridge. For clients who only require our architectural design service, this is also available within this area. For projects outside this area, please contact us to discuss your location and project requirements.
11. Can I purchase an architectural design package without a survey?
No, the architectural design package requires the prior purchase of a Survey Package, as accurate measurements and assessments are essential for producing professional plans.
12. How long does the architectural design process take?
The timeline depends on the complexity of your project. Typically, we aim to complete initial designs and submit planning applications within 2-4 weeks of the survey. Please note, the councils typically take 8 weeks to determine a planning application.
13. What happens after the architectural design is complete?
Once your design is finalised and planning approval is granted, you’ll have all the necessary drawings to proceed with construction. You can then decide to use SturdyBuild or another contractor for the build phase.
14. What other architectural services can you provide?
In addition to loft conversions and extensions, we also provide expert design services for:
HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) design
New build design
Change of Use applications
We are highly experienced in these areas and can guide you through the entire process, including planning applications and Building Regulation compliance. If you’re interested in any of these services, please contact us for more information.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help!