1. Getting Started

  • We provide a full range of architectural services including feasibility studies, concept design, planning applications, detailed technical drawings, building regulations submissions, and construction support. We work closely with clients from the initial idea through to completion of the project.

  • We specialise in residential projects such as house extensions, renovations, and new-build homes, as well as selected commercial developments.

  • Yes. While many of our projects are local, we are able to work with clients across wider regions depending on the project scope.

  • The first step is to contact us by filling out the new project enquiry form.

    We’ll arrange a meeting where we can discuss your project ideas, budget, timeline, and site conditions to determine how we can assist.

  • Yes. We offer an initial consultation to understand your project requirements and provide guidance on feasibility, potential costs, and the next steps.

  • It is helpful to bring any available information about your project such as site photos, floor plans, title plans, inspiration images, and an outline of your budget and goals.

  • As part of our service we assess planning constraints, site limitations, and design possibilities early on to provide you with confidence before moving on to the next stage.

2. Design Process

  • We have created three principal workstages that divides up a project int three distinct stages; 1 Design & Planning, 2 Technical Design & Building Regulations, 3 Construction & Completion.

    Each stage has clear outcomes, core tasks and statutory processes so you always have a clear idea of where we are in the journey.

  • The design phase can vary depending on the complexity of the project. During our intial consultation we will be able to discuss your project in more detail and provide timescales.

  • Clients are closely involved throughout the process. The client is an integral member of the wider design team and we find that the most successful projects have engaged clients.

  • Yes. Concept Design (Stage 1B) typically involves several iterations. We work with you to refine the design until it meets your expectations and project requirements.

3. Planning & Building Regulations

  • Almost all projects we work on require some level of approval from the Local Authority. Some works fall under permitted development rights, while others require full planning permission. We can advise you during the initial stages.

  • Yes. We prepare and submit planning applications on your behalf and manage communication with the local planning authority.

  • Yes. We produce detailed technical drawings and specifications required for building regulations approval at Stage 2A.

4. Costs & Fees

  • During the initial consultation we will review your budget and ensure it aligns with your brief. We provide you with an outline budget that gives you an overview of the costs involved.

    A total project budget of £250,000 may be apportioned as follows:

    • 70-75% Construction Cost

    • 10-15% Professional Fees (Architect, Strucutral Engineer…)

    • 2.5% Statutory Fees (Planning, Building Regulations…)

    • 2.5% Surveys & Reports (Trees, Ecology…)

    • 5-10% Contingency

    These figures contain VAT at 20% so this must be removed to reach your net costs.

  • Our fees vary depending on the project size and complexity.

    At James Basey Architects we typically provide a fixed fee for each Workstage.

  • In addition to architectural fees, projects may include costs such as planning application fees, building control fees, consultant fees (structural engineers, surveyors), and construction costs.

    We will set out these additional fess in more detail for you once we have reviewed your project.