How we work
A clear process, following the RIBA Plan of Work
We organise projects into clear stages, so each is properly resolved before the next begins — and so one team holds the brief, the design, the approvals, the consultants and the build.
- Clear fixed fees from £395
- Free, no-obligation consultation
- Licence to Alter drawings
- Extensions, lofts & planning applications
The stages
From brief to handover
0–1 · Strategic definition & brief
We establish your objectives, budget and a clear brief, and review the property and its planning context.
2 · Concept design
We test options for layout, light and massing against the brief, budget and what planning is likely to support.
3 · Spatial coordination & planning
We develop the design and prepare the planning and any listed building or leasehold applications.
4 · Technical design
We produce coordinated building regulations and construction information, with structural and other consultant input.
5–6 · Tender & construction
We obtain and compare contractor prices, then support the build — with contract administration where appointed.
7 · Handover
We help ensure the completed project, approvals and information are properly recorded for you.
What to expect
Working with us
Most clients appoint stage by stage, so commitment stays proportionate to progress and you can pause to make decisions between stages. We are clear at each point about what we will produce, what other consultants are likely to be needed, and what the next stage involves.
You can appoint us for
- Feasibility and a planning strategy only
- A planning drawing package
- A building regulations and technical package
- A full service from brief to completion
- Construction-stage support and contract administration
Fees
How fees work
Fees depend on the scope, stage and complexity of a project. They are commonly structured as a fixed fee for a defined stage, a percentage of construction cost for a full-service appointment, or a time-based fee for early advice. We set out fees clearly in a written proposal before work begins, and explain which other consultant costs — such as structural engineering, surveys or building control fees — are likely to be additional.
Joined-up group capability
In-house architecture, structural engineering, surveying & build
On a typical London residential commission, homeowners are left to coordinate separate practices for architectural drawings, structural steel and foundation calculations, Party Wall awards, Building Regulations compliance, and main-contractor construction. When those disciplines work in silos, structural beam depths or drainage invert levels discovered at RIBA Stage 4 often force redesigns after planning permission has already been granted.
At Hampstead Architecture & Planning, our in-house architectural designers, architects, and structural engineers review load paths, temporary propping, and conservation constraints together from Stage 1–2. Where a commission progresses to statutory notices and site delivery, we work seamlessly alongside our sister companies Hampstead Chartered Surveyors & Building Consultancy (party wall, building regulations, surveying, and leasehold compliance) and Hampstead Renovations (construction, renovation, and refurbishment delivery).
Group insurance & governance
All group operations are backed by comprehensive commercial insurance cover, including £5M Public Liability, £10M Employers' Liability, and Contractors' All Risks (CAR) insurance. You retain complete freedom to appoint us for a standalone planning or technical drawing package, or to use our joined-up group structure from first measured survey to completed build.
Ready to start?
Tell us where the property is, what you want to change and what stage you are at. We will review the information and recommend the right first stage for your project.
Free consultation
Tell us about your project
Free and no obligation. We review every enquiry personally.