Is there a difference between “architect design services” and “architectural design services”? Well, both are perfectly accurate descriptions of the services that we provide – we are architects and the work we do is architectural.

But beware: “architectural design services” is sometimes a description used by draughtspeople who are not qualified architects but are offering to do architectural drawings for you. Under English law, anyone can perform architectural design services, but you need to be fully qualified – which usually takes seven years – to call yourself an architect. Which is why you should check your architect is listed at arb.org.uk – if not, the person you are working with may not be fully qualified, regulated and insured.Our architect services go from feasibility studies to contract administration – from the start to the finish of a project. Of course, not all clients hire us to look after their projects from those first discussions before there is even a rough sketch to completion of the finished structure. Sometimes we only work on a project as far as planning permission – and at other times, we come on board after planning permission has been granted.

That’s all covered by the training and expertise of an experienced architect: making sure that a construction contractor is building what was designed is every bit as much a part of an architect’s skills as coming up with an initial concept or doing technical drawings. We enjoy being part of a successful project, no matter whether our contribution is at the beginning, middle or end or all the way through.

Something else you are probably wondering is: what kind of projects do we provide architectural services for? Our work is mostly for residential architect services but we also take up projects for offices, clinics, shops, recreation/leisure premises and places of worship. In residential architectural design terms, we handle everything from renovations and extensions to new-build houses and larger developments.

We take a flexible and open-minded approach to every design venture we undertake. We always begin in the same way: we listen to our clients, we want to hear what you have to say, we want to understand what you want to achieve. All of our architect services are individually tailored and responsive; we work in collaboration with our clients and do not make any decisions without unanimous agreement.

In order to accomplish your vision, our designs are also site-targeted, and budget specified. We extensively analyse and evaluate each context so that we can utilise it to the best of our ability within the scope of the budget. Once we have a detailed brief that takes into account the client’s needs, the site’s environment and the budgetary requirements, we will begin feasibility studies. We will present you with a range of possible solutions, play around with different ideas, think laterally, and let the design emerge naturally.

We endeavour to design intelligently and responsively, and answer to unique problems with ideas that are functional and aesthetic, socially oriented, and give a robust sense of place. When the design is finalised we use the latest design technology, photorealistic visuals and 3D models to give an accurate presentation of the proposal. By making meticulous visualisations across a number of different platforms, we can begin to bring your project to life and make any necessary alterations or revisions.

As a hands-on and dedicated practice, Urbanist Architecture can guide you through every step of the way should you so wish. This means that we will draw up detailed construction drawings, plans and elevations, and other technical drawings so that your contractors will know exactly what to do. In addition to this, we will make sure that all your paperwork is handled with care and efficiency so that your build can progress as smoothly as possible. We will conduct building surveys, liaise with planning officers and prepare planning applications, and compile the right documents for building regulation approval.

That’s the brief tour of architect design services: please get in touch if you would like us to make your dream of a new or better home, or a profitable development, come true.