INSIDER INSIGHTS | 10 Steps to designing your dream home

NOVEMBER 26, 2023

Designing your dream home is an exciting journey that begins with a vision. Our expertise in designing, planning and delivering bespoke homes, makes the experience a fulfilling and rewarding journey. Explore our guidance on 10 key steps to turn your dream into a tangible reality, using an architect.

10 STEPS TO REALISING YOUR VISION

  1. Identify Your Needs and Wants: Make a list of what you need and desire in your new home. Consider the number of rooms, layout, style, and any specific features or amenities you want.

  2. Find an Architect: Research and find an architect whose style and approach align with your vision. Meet with them to discuss your aspirations, ideas, budget, and timelines.

  3. Set a Realistic Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on the project. Be clear about your budget constraints with the architect so they can work within those limits.

  4. Site Visit and Assessment: The architect will visit your site to understand its features, limitations, and potential. They'll assess the site's conditions and any restrictions that may impact the design.

  5. Concept Development: The architect will develop initial design concepts, in line with your brief. This involves brainstorming and sketching ideas based on your preferences and the site's characteristics. It is advisable to work with a planning consultant to help to smooth the planning process and support the application.

  6. Design Development: Once a concept is agreed upon, the architect will start refining the design, incorporating more detailed elements like room layouts, materials, and structural considerations. At the end of this stage, the Planning Application is submitted to the Local Authority.

  7. Review and Feedback: Regularly review the evolving design with the architect. Provide feedback and discuss any changes or adjustments you'd like to make.

  8. Technical Information: Once the design meets your expectations, the architect will create final detailed plans and specifications. These will be used for the necessary statutory approvals and construction.

  9. Select a Contractor: Work with your architect to select a reputable contractor for the construction phase. They should understand the plans and execute the build according to the design.

  10. Construction and Supervision: During construction, your architect can oversee the project to ensure the design is executed correctly. They will carry out regular site inspections to assess quality of materials and workmanship and compliance with the specification. They will also carry out regular valuations, and issue the appropriate certificates as required.

Remember, communication with your architect is key throughout the process. Be open to discussions to achieve the best outcome for your dream home.

If you'd like to take the first step towards designing your dream home or enhancing your current home, schedule a call with us today to see how we can help you.

To arrange an initial consultation, email us at studio@thurstonking.com or call the office directly on +44 (0) 121 517 1953


We will:

  • Get clarity on your current situation and your project aspirations

  • Discuss our process and how we may be able to help you

  • Determine if we would be a good fit for your project

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Thurston King Architects Ltd. ARB. RIBA Chartered Practice. Membership Number 20055060.

© 2023 Thurston King Architects Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

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