A studio built on clarity, care and collaboration

Light House Studio specialises in designing high-end bespoke residential projects, including new builds, extensions, renovations, and conversions.  Our work spans from contemporary modern homes to heritage projects.  We also have experience in listed building and conservation area projects; we understand the complexities of preserving historical features whilst modernising a property.  

We ensure we adhere to all UK regulations, ensure all necessary consents are obtained to progress and work hard to help our clients make informed decisions.  We are passionate about creating bespoke project that are deeply connected to their place.   

The first step is a free initial conversation.  We will discuss your goals, budget, site (if applicable), and timeframe.  It is a chance for us to understand your needs, for you to get a feel for how we work and see if we are compatible, as working on a building project can be a deeply personal experience.  

After that, we do charge an initial consultation fee of £125 for a face-to-face consultation.  

As part of the initial consultation, we will discuss the following elements:

• Consolidation of your brief / what you hope to achieve
• Planning advice
• Potential implications of any changes to the property
• Discussion of project timeframes
• Budget breakdown of potential costs for any works

After the initial consultation we can undertake a detailed quotation where we also provide a cost break-down of the key elements of your project.  Generally, the initial consultation and project quotation can take up to 3 to 4 hours in total.  If we are appointed for future work, the initial consultation fee would get refunded against further design work and will be deducted from the next invoice if you wish to continue.

Our fees reflect the value we bring to each project, and they vary based on several key factors – including the complexity of the design, the project’s scope, cost of construction and its location.  For full architectural services – from concept through to completion – our fees typically range from 8% to 10% of the construction costs.  However, we do not determine fees solely based on that figure; we also consider the level of involvement required throughout the project.  

For smaller or more straightforward projects, we can offer fixed fees based on an agreed number of hours, ensuring a cost-effective approach tailored to each work stage.

We are happy to provide a customised fee proposal once we understand your project’s specific requirements.    

When you work with us, you can expect a thoughtful, in-depth and intentional design process.  We dedicate time to deeply understand your needs, wants and vision, while balancing these with Planning and Building Regulation requirements, budget constraints, and site-specific conditions.   

Throughout the project journey, we will collaborate closely with you, ensuring you are informed and involved at every stage.  Our commitment is to bring your vision to life in a way that is not only inspiring but also realistic and achievable.

Transparency is key to our process.  We provide clear fee structures from the outset and can tailor our services to align your budget.  From the outset, we help guide cost expectations.  At the early project stages, we collaborate with quantity surveyors or contractors to ensure your project remains financially on track.

Our goal is to minimise surprises and support informed decisions in relation to budget and cost at every project stage.

As involved as you would like to be.  Some clients enjoy being hands-on in shaping the design and project journey, while others prefer us to take the lead.  Either way we ensure you are informed, comfortable and confident at every stage.

Our process is structure around clear milestones, giving you regular opportunities to provide feedback and make key decisions as the project develops.  

In most cases - especially for larger works or listed buildings – planning permission is required.  However, for smaller or more straightforward projects, your plans may fall under permitted development rights, meaning a full planning application may not be required.  We will assess your project to determine what is required and submit the most suitable planning application and manage the process on your behalf.  This includes preparing all the necessary drawings, compiling supporting documents and liaising with local authorities.  

We currently have a 99% planning success rate over the past five years - a reflection of our careful, strategic approach to every application, something we take great pride in as a studio.

Absolutely.  We have a network of trusted contractors we have worked with before and can recommend.  If needed, we can also run a competitive tender process, helping you source and vet the right contractor for your project.

Once a contractor is appointed, we can remain actively involved throughout the construction phase – monitoring progress, managing quality and ensure the build stays on track and aligns with the proposed design.

The timeline varies depending on the project’s scope and complexity.  For a typical residential project, the process usually spans 12 to 18 months.  The design and planning phases typically take 3 to 6 months; focusing on refining the design, securing planning approvals, and budgetary estimation.  

Before construction beings, we focus on detailed pre-construction planning, including technical drawings, Building Regulations approval, contractor selection, and securing accurate and detailed quotes.  Once construction begins, we ensure a smooth progression, keeping you informed and involved at every milestone.  We will ensure a comprehensive and clear timeline from the outset and offer regular updates throughout the project.   

Since October 2023, updated Building Regulations have introduced new statutory duties for all clients, designers and contractors to ensure buildings are safe to build, occupy, maintain and eventually demolish.  These duties are central to ensuring full regulatory compliance.    

The regulations define three key duty-holder roles:

1. Client
2. Principal Designer
3. Principal Contractor

As architects, we consider it essential to adopt the role of Principal Designer under both the Building Regulations and CDM 2015.  This role is essential and non-negotiable in our process. 

We are committed to ensuring quality and compliance throughout the life of the project and, as such, we do not progress projects beyond RIBA Stage 3 (planning) unless we remain involved during the technical and construction stages.  We will require you to confirm in writing your understanding of your clients duties and we can guide you through what is required.   

Although qualifications and design are important criteria, selecting an architect, is about finding someone you feel comfortable collaborating with – someone who listens, communicates clearly and understands your vision.  Look for a practice that offers transparency around process, fees and timelines, and demonstrates a strong track record of delivering well-resolved thoughtful projects.

Consider their experience with planning approvals, technical detailing and construction oversight, as these are critical to turning a good design into a successful built outcome.  The right architect will guide you through every stage from concept to construction, acting as both creative partner and advocate for your project.