Planning drawings give a picture of what your project will look like – the size, shape and how it sits in its surroundings. They’re great for showing the vision, but they don’t yet contain the detail needed to actually build it.

That comes in the technical design stage. This is where we get into the nuts and bolts: choosing the right materials, working out exactly how the walls, floors and roof will be built, and coordinating with engineers and other specialists. We also make sure everything complies with Building Regulations and iron out any issues that could affect cost, construction, or energy performance.

It might not sound glamorous, but it’s the stage that makes sure your project runs smoothly and delivers the home you’re imagining.

Finding the Right Builder (and Getting a Fair Price)

Once the technical drawings and specifications are complete, we can approach builders for quotes. This stage can feel overwhelming if it’s your first time, but a well-prepared tender pack – with clear drawings, a written specification, and defined expectations – makes it much easier to get accurate and comparable prices.

It’s tempting to jump at the lowest quote, but that often leads to surprises later. Taking time to get a realistic price now usually saves money and stress in the long run – especially if your architect has provided a thorough design package.

Contracts, Dates and Preparing to Build

After choosing your builder, the next step is to put a contract in place. Even on smaller projects, a written agreement is important: it protects both you and the builder, and sets out exactly what’s expected.

You’ll then agree a start date, notify Building Control, and sort out any final paperwork. Depending on your project, you may also need to consider things like insurance, site access, or party wall agreements – all part of getting ready for construction.

It’s All Part of the Journey



Securing planning permission is an exciting milestone, but it’s only one chapter of the process. The next phase – making sure your design can be built smoothly and to a high standard – is where your architect continues to add real value, often working quietly behind the scenes to keep everything on track