PAUL REED
Architects Ltd
Here at Paul Reed Architects Ltd I help homeowners across Brighton, Sussex and the South East create homes that are practical, distinctive and suited to the way they live.
Whether you are planning an extension, renovating a listed property or building a new home, I will guide you through each stage with clear advice, creative thinking and careful attention to your budget.
You will work directly with me from our first conversation through to construction, so you will always know who is managing your project and what happens next.
about
Here at Paul Reed Architects Ltd I help homeowners across Brighton, Sussex and the South East create homes that are practical, distinctive and suited to the way they live.
Whether you are planning an extension, renovating a listed property or building a new home, I will guide you through each stage with clear advice, creative thinking and careful attention to your budget.
You will work directly with me from our first conversation through to construction, so you will always know who is managing your project and what happens next.
about
Every architectural project is different, and the exact stages can vary depending on its size, scope and specific requirements. However, most projects follow the general process outlined below.
I will usually be involved from the early design stages through to planning approval, covering Stages 01 to 03. Depending on the agreed scope of work, I can also continue through the technical design, construction and completion stages, covering Stages 04 to 06.
Before work begins, I will clearly explain which stages are included, what I will be responsible for and what you can expect at each point.
Preparation & Brief
This is the most important part
of the project and where an
architectural designer can add real value.
I will undertake some preliminary appraisals to assess the options and feasibility of the project. This can range from a sketch design solution to a full feasibility study and will enable you to decide on the best way forward.
Concept Design
Using the initial project brief I will then develop outline proposals.
I will present a number of initial concepts for you to choose from.
I will also liaise with local planners as a priority. The final design brief should reflect your aspirations and provide you with a home that adds value and improves your quality of life.
Design Development
I will spend more time at this stage transforming ideas into something that can be built.
Once agreed, the design proposals will then be submitted for planning approval, if required.
Technical Design
At this stage I will prepare the technical drawings, this may include coordinating the work of other consultants into the designs, and a specification and/or a schedule of works that will be used to price the tender and construct the building.
Construction
I am always on hand if any queries arise - however, experience has proven that by this stage in aletrations and extensions, the builders will have all the information they require to complete their part of the process.
Handover & Close Out
Generally this will not require my involvement for home alterations & extensions.
However, on larger project I would look to be involved at each and every stage of the project including this last stage.
Extensions & renovations
Thoughtful alterations that improve everything from space and natural light to the way your home works. I create considered changes that connect old and new, making your property more practical, comfortable and suited to family life.
Bespoke new family homes
Distinctive homes designed around the site, setting and how you want to live. I consider every detail to create a practical, characterful home that supports family life now and adapts as your needs change.
Listed buildings & conservation areas
Sensitive design that respects historic character while meeting modern needs. I carefully balance heritage, planning requirements and everyday comfort to create thoughtful changes that feel appropriate to the building and its setting.
Loft conversions & remodelling
Creative ways to make better use of the space already within your property. From converting unused lofts to reworking existing layouts, I create practical, light-filled spaces that support how your family lives now and in the years ahead.
Garden rooms & annex
Practical ways for expanding families to create more space without moving home. Whether you need an extra bedroom, a quiet place to work, or independent living space for a family member, I design flexible spaces that feel connected to your home and garden.
Technical design & construction support
Detailed drawings, building regulations, tender information and practical support during construction.
I can also help with builder selection, contract administration and resolving issues as the work progresses.
01
Initial Conversation
This is a key stage of the project, where an architectural designer can add significant value.
I will carry out a free initial consultation to assess the available options and confirm the project’s feasibility. Depending on your needs, this may range from an early sketch proposal to a full feasibility study, giving you the information needed to choose the best way forward.
02
Design and Planning
Using the initial project brief, I will develop a series of outline proposals for your consideration.
I will present a selection of initial concepts for your review and consult with the local planning authority at an early stage where needed.
Once the preferred concept is agreed, I will develop the design into a practical proposal that reflects your aspirations, adds value to your home and is ready for planning submission if required.
03
Technical Design
At this stage, I will manage the technical design and coordinate with other consultants where required.
I will prepare the drawings, specifications and schedules needed to meet Building Regulations, obtain accurate quotations from builders and support construction.
As Principal Designer, I will also prepare the pre-construction health and safety information for the appointed contractor.
04
Tender and Construction
I will manage the technical design and coordinate with other consultants where required, producing the drawings and information needed to meet Building Regulations and obtain quotations from builders.
As Principal Designer, I will also prepare the pre-construction health and safety information for the appointed contractor.
I will remain available to answer any queries that arise. However, for most alterations and extensions, the builder should have all the information needed to complete the work by this stage.
05
Handover and Close Out
For most home alterations and extensions, clients choose to manage the construction stage themselves to reduce costs. However, I also offer contract administration throughout the build, sometimes referred to as project management, and would usually remain involved at every stage of larger projects.
Where this service is not required, I will still be available to respond to occasional queries. By this point, the builder should have the drawings and information needed to complete the work.
Urban sites
Extensive local planning experience across Brighton, Sussex and the South East.
Listed buildings
Sensitive changes that respect historic character
Conservation areas
Design shaped around local context and planning requirements
Coastal and rural sites
Homes designed around views, weather and setting
South Downs National Park
Experience with sensitive sites and planning constraints
Areas of outstanding natural beauty
Sensitive design that responds to protected scenery, local character and planning requirements.
WHISPERING REEDS, PETT LEVEL, HASTINGS
Approx Build Cost £380k
On the bank of a military canal and looking across to the beach. An upside down house evolved to maximise views from the main living spaces. The style developed from a local vernacular of box like timber clad buildings nearby, while expressing the horizontal elements to allow the building to settle into the landscape. Internally the ground floor corridors divert the route upstairs and away for the downstairs bedrooms for greater privacy. An angled garage is linked by a walkway and window seats in living spaces overlook the main entrance for greater security.
 Whispering Reeds upside down houseThe horizontal nature and materials help the house settle into the landscape |  Window seats surround the dining area looking out to the viewThe window seats project out from the house and overlook the entrance for added grounding and security |  Stairs detailIn combining the window ledge to the stairs this helps connect the interior to the surroundings |
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 Design drawings of houseshowing the projecting upside down nature and projecting elements |  View from rearShowing connecting walkway and projecting window seats |  View from drivewayShowing angled garage connected to the house via walkway and glass projecting balcony |
 Curved timber cladding on lower floorGlass projecting balcony to living room above |  The house in contextWith cliffs behind and canal in front the house settles into the landscape |  View from garage to houseThe entrance lines through with the walkway, easily identifiable but not imposing |
 Glass balcony projects into the landscapeThe cantilevered structure is completely thermally broken to give better thermal performance |  The window seat in the landscapeOn approach the house emerges from behind the trees |  Deign DrawingsThrough 3d modelling a complex house can more easily be imagined and developed |