FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Answers to common questions about residential architecture, planning permission, extensions, renovations, new build houses, listed buildings and sustainable home design in Brighton, Sussex and the South East.
01 - GETTING STARTED
01
How do I get in touch with Paul Reed Architects?
Please feel free to call Paul on 07807 459350 for an initial chat. If he does not answer, leave a message, as he may be with a client at the time, he will get back to you after.
You can also email paul@paulreedarchitects.com or fill in the contact form on the website.
It is helpful to send as much information as possible at the start, such as your ideas, budget, brief, property details, images, drawings or anything else that helps explain the project. From there, Paul can advise on the best next step.
01
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes. Paul is happy to have an initial phone chat or site discussion before any paid work begins. Charges only apply once both sides agree to proceed.
If you are at an early stage, it is still fine to get in touch. It helps to be open about whether you are ready to appoint an architect, comparing options, or just gathering ideas. This makes the first conversation more useful and honest for everyone.
01
I am at a very early stage. Can I still speak to you?
Yes. It is common to feel unsure at the beginning of a building project.
Paul is happy to have an early chat and help you understand what may be involved before you decide whether to move forward.
It helps to be clear about where you are in the process, whether you are ready to appoint an architect, looking for early advice, or comparing options.
01
What areas do you cover?
Paul Reed Architects mainly works across Brighton, Sussex and the South East, including Surrey, Hampshire, Kent, Buckinghamshire and Essex.
Paul is also happy to travel further for larger or particularly interesting residential projects.
01
Will I deal directly with Paul Reed?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects is a small practice, so clients work directly with Paul throughout the project.
This gives you one clear point of contact from the first conversation through to the later design stages.
Paul also has a wider network of architects, consultants and trusted contacts who can be brought in or consulted where needed. This gives clients personal service, with access to wider professional input when useful.
02 - ARCHITECTS, VALUE AND CHOOSING THE RIGHT PERSON
02
Do I need an architect for my home project?
It depends on the project, but most building projects need drawings for planning permission, building regulations, builder quotes and construction.
An architect can help you understand what is possible, what approvals you may need, and how to move from an early idea to a clear design.
Paul Reed Architects can guide you through the design stages, coordinate with other consultants such as structural engineers, and prepare the drawings and information needed for planning, building regulations and builders’ quotes.
02
What does an architect do?
An architect helps develop the brief, designs the project, prepares drawings, advises on planning and building regulations, coordinates other consultants, and helps create a package that builders can quote from.
On many residential projects, the architect also acts as the Principal Designer during the design stage under the Building Safety Act 2022. This means helping to coordinate design health and safety information and advising the client on their duties.
02
What is the difference between an architect and an architectural designer?
An architect is fully qualified and registered with the Architects Registration Board. The title “architect” is protected by law, so only registered architects can use it.
An architectural designer may have relevant experience, but they are not necessarily fully qualified or registered. They are not held to the same professional standards as architects and may not have the same level of training, insurance or legal duties.
Paul Reed is a registered architect. His ARB registration number is 073023H.
02
A builder says I do not need an architect. Is that right?
Sometimes a builder may suggest using someone cheaper to prepare drawings, but this can be a false economy.
Without proper drawings and a clear specification, it can be harder to compare builder quotes properly and easier for costs to rise later.
An architect works for the client and helps protect the client’s interests during the design stage. Good drawings, clear information and the option to get competitive quotes can save money and stress as the project develops.
02
I already have someone to do drawings. Can I still ask Paul for ideas or a comparison?
Yes, but it is helpful to be open about the situation.
If you already have a quote or drawings from someone else, you can send them over with your brief and Paul can advise whether he may be able to help.
Good design advice depends on trust, clarity and proper information, so the more open you are at the start, the more useful the conversation will be.
03 - COSTS AND BUDGETING
03
How much does an architect cost?
Architectural fees depend on the size, complexity and level of service needed.
Paul Reed Architects can work on an agreed daily or hourly rate, or on a fixed fee for each design stage. The fee is agreed before work begins, with clear terms and conditions.
As a rough guide, drawings and specification for a simple extension up to building regulations approval may be in the region of £2,500 to £3,000, subject to the project, site visit and agreed scope.
For new houses, fees are usually calculated as a percentage of the estimated build cost and vary depending on size, complexity and level of input required.
Paul Reed Architects Ltd does not charge VAT.
03
How much will my building project cost?
Building costs depend on the size, specification, site, complexity and market conditions.
The more detailed the drawings and specification, the more accurate a builder’s quote is likely to be.
Paul can provide drawing packages ranging from basic information to more detailed specifications and schedules of work. He can also advise on rough cost-per-square-metre figures at the start and, where needed, recommend a quantity surveyor or builder to provide more detailed cost advice.
03
Can you recommend a builder?
Yes. Depending on the type, size and location of the project, Paul can recommend builders from his tender list.
This includes builders he has worked with before, as well as recommendations from other architects and clients.
Some clients prefer to find builders themselves. Paul can help assess quotes, vet builders and advise on setting up building contracts.
04 - RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE SERVICES
04
What kind of residential projects do you take on?
Paul Reed Architects works on residential projects including new build houses, home extensions, loft conversions, full house renovations, listed buildings, conservation area projects, garden rooms, conversions and remodelling.
Projects range from smaller bespoke design work to large residential renovations and new homes with build costs over £2 million.
04
Do you provide bespoke residential architecture services in Brighton?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects provides bespoke residential architecture services in Brighton and across Sussex.
The practice works on new build homes, extensions, loft conversions, renovations, listed buildings, conservation area properties, garden rooms and remodelling projects.
Each project starts with the client’s brief, budget, site and priorities. Paul then develops the design around how the home needs to work, how it should feel, and what is realistic from a planning, technical and budget point of view.
04
Where can I find architects for bespoke new build houses in Brighton?
Paul Reed Architects designs bespoke new build houses in Brighton, Sussex and the South East.
New build projects usually involve early feasibility work, brief development, concept design, planning drawings, technical design, building regulations information and construction drawings.
Paul can also coordinate with structural engineers and other consultants, advise on planning strategy, and help prepare information for builders to price.
04
Do you design home extensions in Brighton and Sussex?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects designs home extensions in Brighton, Sussex and across the South East.
This includes single-storey extensions, two-storey extensions, rear extensions, side extensions, kitchen extensions, lower-ground-floor extensions, loft conversions and wider house remodelling.
Paul can help assess what is possible, whether planning permission is likely to be needed, how the extension should connect to the existing house, and how to create a clear package of drawings for planning, building regulations and builders’ quotes.
04
Do you design loft conversions?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects works on loft conversions as part of wider residential design services.
A loft conversion may be a simple way to add space, but it still needs careful thought around structure, stairs, fire safety, daylight, insulation, head height, storage and how the new space connects with the rest of the house.
Paul can advise on design options, planning requirements, building regulations and technical drawings.
04
Do you work on full house renovations?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects works on full house renovations, including layout changes, extensions, loft conversions, structural alterations, internal remodelling and upgrades to existing homes.
A renovation is often a chance to make the whole house work better, not just improve one room. Paul considers light, movement, storage, views, garden connection, energy use and the way the home will be lived in day to day.
05 - LISTED BUILDINGS AND CONSERVATION AREAS
05
Do you work on listed buildings and conservation area homes?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects has experience with listed buildings, conservation areas and sensitive residential settings.
These projects usually need careful design, clear drawings and a good understanding of planning risk. The aim is to improve the home while respecting the character of the building and its setting.
Paul can help with early design advice, planning or listed building consent drawings, coordination with consultants and technical information for the build stage.
05
How do I renovate a listed building in Sussex?
Renovating a listed building in Sussex usually needs a careful design approach and the right permissions before work starts.
The first step is to understand the building, its setting, what is significant about it and what changes may be acceptable. From there, Paul can help develop the design, prepare drawings for listed building consent or planning permission, and coordinate any further information that may be needed.
Every listed building is different, so it is best to get advice early before making firm decisions.
06 - SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN
06
Do you design sustainable and eco-friendly homes?
Yes. Sustainability is considered as part of Paul’s standard design approach.
The right measures depend on the project, budget, site and brief. Sustainable design may include orientation, thermal performance, solar gain, thermal mass, underfloor heating, MVHR, heat pumps, solar power, biodiversity, biophilic design, reusing materials where possible and reducing waste through careful setting out and specification.
06
Who offers sustainable residential design services in Brighton?
Paul Reed Architects offers sustainable residential design services in Brighton, Sussex and the South East.
Paul considers sustainability from the early design stages, including how the home is orientated, how natural light enters the space, how the design can reduce heat loss, how materials are used, and how the home connects with nature and the garden.
06
Where can I book a consultation for eco-friendly house design in Brighton?
You can contact Paul Reed Architects directly to discuss eco-friendly house design in Brighton or Sussex.
It is helpful to send information about your property, budget, aims and any sustainable features you are interested in, such as solar panels, heat pumps, improved insulation, natural materials, biodiversity, or better links between the house and garden.
Paul can then advise on what is suitable for the project.
06
Does Paul Reed Architects Ltd handle sustainable home designs in Brighton?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects handles sustainable home design in Brighton and across the South East.
Sustainability can be part of new build homes, extensions, renovations, conversions and listed building projects. The approach depends on the property, planning context, budget and client priorities.
07 - DESIGN APPROACH, STYLE AND INTERIORS
07
What is your design approach?
Paul’s design approach is client first.
The early part of the process is about understanding your brief, priorities, budget, lifestyle and the way you want to use the space.
From there, Paul develops design options that balance function, feeling, style, sustainability, planning risk, practicality and budget. Good communication and a trusting working relationship are key to getting the best result.
07
What styles of architecture can you design?
The style of a project usually develops from the client’s brief, the property, the site, the planning context and the way the space needs to work.
Some projects allow more freedom, while others, such as listed buildings or homes in conservation areas, may need a more sensitive approach.
Clients often send reference images of buildings, spaces or materials they like. These can be very useful in shaping the design direction from the start.
07
Do you provide interior design advice?
Architecture and interior design are closely connected. When Paul develops a design, he considers light, movement, layout, feeling, materials and how the space will be used.
Many clients have strong ideas about interiors, so Paul often acts as a sounding board, helping them test ideas, compare options and make practical design decisions.
More detailed interior design input, including 3D imagery, furniture layouts and lighting studies, can also be provided if needed.
07
Do you design garden rooms or outside spaces?
Yes. Paul can advise on garden rooms, outside space layouts, zoning and the relationship between the house and garden.
The connection between internal spaces and outside areas is an important part of many residential projects. Paul can help think through views, access, light, privacy and how the spaces will be used.
For detailed planting plans and specialist plant advice, Paul may recommend a garden designer or landscaper.
08 - PLANNING PERMISSION
08
Do I need planning permission?
Some work can be carried out under permitted development, such as certain extensions and loft conversions.
Other projects, including larger extensions, new houses, listed buildings and work in conservation areas, are likely to need planning permission.
Paul Reed Architects can assess your project, explain the planning risks and advise on the best route. Paul has worked on more than 100 planning applications in Brighton and Hove alone.
08
Can you help with planning applications in Brighton and Sussex?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects can help with planning applications in Brighton, Sussex and the South East.
This can include early advice, site assessment, design development, planning drawings, supporting information and coordination with other consultants where required.
Paul can also advise when a planning consultant may be useful, particularly on more complex or higher-risk projects.
08
What makes a successful planning application in Brighton?
A successful planning application usually needs a clear design, accurate drawings, an understanding of the local context and a realistic view of planning risk.
In Brighton, this can be especially important for conservation areas, listed buildings, tight urban sites, extensions, loft conversions and projects where neighbours may be affected.
Paul Reed Architects helps clients develop designs that respond to the property, the brief, the budget and the planning context.
08
How do I get planning permission for a house extension in Sussex?
The first step is to understand the property, the client’s brief and whether the work may fall under permitted development or need a planning application.
Paul Reed Architects can assess the project, explain the likely route, prepare the drawings and submit or support the planning application.
Once planning is resolved, the project can move into building regulations and technical design.
09 - BUILDING REGULATIONS, TECHNICAL DRAWINGS AND CONSULTANTS
09
What are the steps for building regulations approval?
Building regulations approval usually comes after the main design has been developed, and often after planning permission has been granted where planning is needed.
Paul prepares technical drawings and information showing how the project will meet building regulations. This may cover structure, insulation, fire safety, ventilation, drainage, stairs, windows, doors and other technical details.
A structural engineer is usually needed where structural work is involved.
09
Can you prepare technical drawings for building regulations and builders’ quotes?
Yes. Paul Reed Architects can prepare technical drawings for building regulations, construction and builders’ quotes.
Good technical drawings help explain the project clearly, reduce uncertainty and make it easier for builders to price the work properly.
The level of detail can vary depending on the project, but the aim is to provide a clear and useful package of information.
09
Do I need other consultants?
Most projects involving structural work will need a structural engineer. Paul provides drawings for the structural engineer to work from and coordinates the design information.
Depending on the project, other consultants may also be needed, such as a party wall surveyor, arboricultural consultant, ecologist, SAP assessor, planning consultant, mechanical and electrical engineer or archaeologist.
Paul will advise on this as the project develops.
10 - THE DESIGN AND BUILDING PROCESS
10
What is the design and build process?
The process broadly follows the RIBA Plan of Work.
The early stages involve developing the brief, testing ideas and preparing concept designs. The design is then developed in more detail for planning, followed by technical drawings and information for building regulations and builders’ quotes.
Paul can be appointed for all stages, although many clients appoint him up to the end of the technical design stage, when the drawing package is ready to send to builders.
10
Do you manage the project during the build?
The phrase “project management” can be confusing.
During the design stages, Paul coordinates the design, drawings, consultants and submissions. During the build itself, the builder usually manages their own site work.
If Paul is appointed during construction, he can provide contract administration.
This is different from site project management. Contract administration can help with communication between client and builder, checking progress against the contract, reviewing information and providing a level of quality control.