This is the most common question studio elle is asked by homeowners who dream of improving their home. You are not alone - construction process can be lengthy and complicated, but we are here to help you:

1.Define your ‘scope’ – what is it that would make the biggest improvement to your home? That could be an additional bedroom or two; an open plan kitchen/dining room to entertain and spend time together as a family; a tranquil working space without distractions? This will help us look at the property together and establish the interventions which would achieve these goals.

2.Set a realistic budget. Building work is an investment. It will add not only monetary but emotional value to your property and the key is to identify your financial comfort zone early on. A well-defined figure will help to aid the design, specification and construction – it pays to define this at the outset. You can Google approximate costs in the local area and have a chat with some local builders to build an informed idea. Always allow for consultant fees, inflation and set a generous contingency.

3.Set a realistic timeline. Is there a specific date that is crucial for your future plans? If so, communicate this early on.

4.Engage a professional. Whether it is a renovation project, an extension, a loft conversion or a new built, having the right Architect on board will take out a lot of stress out of your dream project. The Architect will guide you through the process, bring the whole consultant team together, design a space that exceeds your expectations and ultimately add value to your project.

studio elle can help and guide you through the above steps – to discuss your questions and ideas do get in touch with us here .

We will undergo a very detailed and thorough design process with your bespoke needs at the core – the initial steps will be:

1.Initial consultation to discuss scope, budget and your vision. This will include our initial feedback and comments on any main issues

2.Once appointed, whilst waiting for your measured building survey (done by a specialist), studio elle will commence desktop research on your property, surrounding area, understanding your specific requirements, lifestyle, aspirations, and various practicalities

3.Once building survey has been received, we will begin conceptual design and keep in touch with you at every step to ask questions, set meetings to review initial ideas, take your feedback in board and keep developing various options which answer your brief

At every design stage, we will meet and communicate at regular intervals to ensure you are informed and in control of the project.

Architectural fees are highly dependent on your property, scope and complexity – please do get in touch and we will be able to cost your individual project.

To give you a ballpark figure, at studio elle typical fees for a full architectural service (from concept design to construction management and completion) are 12% of your overall construction budget.

However, for simpler renovation, extension, and loft conversion projects many Clients opt for concept design and planning application services only, which are calculated as a lump-sum, which is typically a third of the full architectural service fee.

When getting quotes, please be very cautious of low fees. Fees are a direct reflection of how much time the Architect is willing to put into your dream home. There are no shortcuts to good design – problem solving takes time. The fee must allow for many conversations, reviews, revisions, and detailed communication throughout to ensure you are in full control of your dream project and the Architect is spending the time you deserve.

If your values align with ours, the next steps in starting your project will be:

1.Initial consultation

2.Fee proposal

3.Site visit

4.Appointment signed

5.Measured building survey (by Others)

6.Design begins

To begin this journey, do get in touch to briefly summarise your project and we will be in touch shortly.