FAQ

WHAT IS AN ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST?

The study of architecture is split into two separate degrees; one in art, and the other in science. After a number of years, these roles ultimately blend together.

By studying Architectural Technology (Batchelor of Science), I learnt to prioritise how buildings function; how to make them structurally sound, conform to Building Regulations and to consume less energy before putting a design together for my clients. This ensures properties are fit for purpose and comfortable to live in.

I have an FdSc: Construction Studies and a BSc: Architectural Technology from the University of Brighton.

CAN I VISIT YOU IN PERSON?

Yes! I’m based in Cobblestone Walk in Steyning High Street, just opposite the main car park. My office is accessible to the public, and people often just walk in to see examples of the work I do, or to ask questions about my services (something I gladly welcome).

If you’re ever in the area, please feel free to pop in, no appointment necessary. If you are making a dedicated trip to see me, please message me first so I can confirm availability, as sometimes I can be out on survey.

Steyning is a small village in West Sussex with a lot of history. It has a very strong “Olde English” feel, with many historic buildings, some dating back to Tudor times.

It’s a few miles inland from Shoreham by Sea, and can be easily reached by car (a carpark is directly opposite my office in Cobblestone Walk), by foot (there’s a lovely walk along the river from Shoreham which follows the Downs Link – an old disused railway line), or by public transport (a bus from Churchill Square Stop C in Brighton can drop you off right outside my office), and it’s also located on the 100 bus route between Burgess Hill and Pulborough.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER?

I’m based in Steyning, West Sussex and cover the whole of East and West Sussex. As a site visit is usually a requirement in every job I undertake, and as specific property knowledge tends to vary slightly based on location, the majority of my jobs tend to be within this area.

I have previously undertaken jobs further afield (Hampshire, Surrey, Kent, London), but these are viewed on a case by case basis.

DO YOU WORK IN 2D OR 3D?

Both! 2D Architectural Plans are great in that they’re easy to scale and read specific measurements. They are the basic requirement when submitting plans to the council, however they fall short when it comes to portraying how the property will actually look when built (which is usually the biggest issue when it comes to gaining planning permission).

By building a 3D virtual model of the property, I create realistic photo imagery to really show neighbours and planners a “before” and “after” glimpse of the work that you’re trying to gain permission for.

Neighbours can sometimes react badly when they receive their notification letter that you’ve applied for planning permission, due to the fear of the unknown. Seeing both 2D plans, and 3D imagery can really help to calm their fears, and address any concerns they (or the council planners) have with the works you are trying to gain permission for.

HOW ARE YOUR PLANS DRAWN?

My plans are drawn digitally, to ensure a very high accuracy. After these are exported, you’ll receive both a paper copy, as well as a digital version; allowing you to email them to builders for quotations.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GAIN PLANNING PERMISSION?

My process usually takes 1-2 weeks to survey your property, come up with various options and then meet with you to make the final decisions. After this, the plans are submitted to the council, who state that their guideline is 6-8 weeks to approve or refuse planning applications.

I ALREADY HAVE AN ARCHITECT, BUT THEY’VE ONLY GIVEN ME 2D PLANS?

I offer my visualisation as a separate service if required and do so for a number of other property related professions including: Property Developers, Estate Agents, and Architects. I can work from your 2D Plans and create visuals similar to those shown on this site. These are then used for the purpose of aiding Planning Applications, as well as selling New Build Homes before they’ve been constructed.

HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK WITH YOU?

I’m a sole professional, however I work closely with a number of other specialists in my line of work. This includes: Structural Engineers, Planning Consultants, Builders, Kitchen Designers, Garden Designers and Landscapers.

At the moment, I’m not looking to hire anyone. If you have a related business however, e.g. You’re an Architect who wants to offer 3D visuals to their clients, then I’d be happy to chat about collaborating and offering my services.

I HAVE A QUESTION THAT’S NOT ON THE LIST?

Then please feel free to contact me using this form.

Or call me on: 01903 331212