Project Architectural Services

This is our core service, covering everything from early ideas to handover. Whether you're starting with a blank slate or adapting an existing building, we guide you through each stage: developing the brief, shaping the design, gaining approvals, coordinating technical information, and supporting the build. Every project is different, but the structure helps ensure nothing important gets missed. The points below are how we structure our proposals for most projects.

  • RIBA Stages 0, 1, 2

    • Site visit to inspect the property and take key dimensions.

    • Review background information available on the property.

    • Review and develop the client brief.

    • Meet with the client / client’s agent to review the brief and agree project priorities.

    • Advise on the need for additional consultants (e.g. measured survey, structural engineer, party wall surveyor, drainage specialist, retrofit specialist, other suppliers) and assist with sourcing quotes and appointments.

    • Assess physical and legal constraints (e.g. drainage, trees, easements, restrictive covenants).

    • Develop and present retrofit / building fabric and services upgrade considerations, advising if specialist input is required.

    • Prepare an outline Design Programme and agree a target timeframe for planning submission and subsequent stages.

    • Begin preparing a 3D sketch model of the existing building to test design options.

      Develop initial layout options (diagrammatic and visualised in 3D) for review.

    • Explore elevational alterations alongside layout options.

    • Meet with the client to review design options and consolidate feedback at each stage.

    • Liaise with other consultants as required, including survey companies to ensure information is ready for Stage 3.

    • Refine layout and retrofit strategy through iterative reviews, targeting broad agreement on the preferred option by the end of Stage 2.

    • Issue agreed option(s) to QS / contractors for high-level cost estimates.

    • Confirm whether planning application is best submitted at end of Stage 2 or early in Stage 3.

    At the end of this stage we typically provide a single report summarising:

    • Options explored

    • Client feedback

    • Recommended option to progress into later design stages

  • RIBA Stage 3

    • Site visit if required.

    • Begin detailed coordination with Structural Engineer and other consultants as required.

    • Liaise with QS, client and consultants to monitor project costs.

    • Submit Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent Information based on Concept Design agreed at end of RIBA Stage 2.

    • Prepare BIM (computer) model of proposals based on survey information.

    • Prepare coordinated drawings and 3D views of the proposals as they develop.

    • Develop imagery of external alterations for sign-off.

    • Obtain samples, quotes and specifications from suppliers of items such as windows.

    • Check compliance with Building Regulations.

    • Anticipate likely planning and listed building conditions and prepare information to enable prompt discharge once consent is granted.

    • Prepare final scheme layout drawings for approval.

    • Finalise retrofit strategy.

    • Meet with client to sign-off the scheme to allow Stage 4 to proceed.

  • RIBA Stage 4

    • Incorporate information from the structural engineer, other specialist consultants and retrofit strategy into a coordinated Construction Information issue.

    • Liaise with suppliers, specialist trade contractors and installers of specified products.

    • Prepare and issue Construction Information (drawings and outline specification) to enable contractor, sub-contractors and suppliers to tender.

    • Prepare pre-construction Health and Safety information as required by CDM Regulations.

    • Engage with Building Control & submit Building Regulations application and agree schedule of approvals to be carried out during RIBA Stage 5.

    • Discharge any remaining pre-commencement Planning Conditions.

    • Agree structure team required for Stage 5 (Construction).

    • Assist in discussions on form of contract between client and the contractor.

  • RIBA Stage 5 & 6

    • Attend a pre-start meeting with the Contractor to agree the programme and schedule of inspections meetings through the construction phase.

    • Attend site at an agreed frequency to inspect the works and provide written feedback to client, contractor and contract administrator on quality and progress of the works.

    • Highlight to the client, contractor and contract administrator any concerns that arise from site inspections.

    • Comment on site activities including health and safety, welfare provision and general management of the project.

    • Inspect and comment on any samples, benchmarks or mock-ups prepared by the contractor.

    • Provide the contractor and suppliers with any further design information required to complete the works.

    • Provide written feedback on sign-off status, including any defects or snagging items to be addressed.

Exploded 3D drawing

Sectors

We are not a single-sector specialist practice. Our experience spans residential, commercial and community-focused projects, often within sensitive planning contexts and occupied buildings.

Across all sectors, our approach is consistent:

  • Clear briefing and scope definition

  • Early cost awareness

  • Strong planning strategy, particularly in conservation areas

  • Detailed technical design and coordination

  • Calm, structured contract administration

Many of our projects involve refurbishment, retrofit and extension rather than new-build. We are comfortable working within constraints, whether heritage, operational, spatial or budgetary.

We apply the same level of rigour to a private house as we do to a professional office or healthcare environment, adapting our process to suit the client, the building and the regulatory framework.

  • High-quality refurbishments, extensions and new-build homes, primarily in South West London and surrounding counties. We work closely with private clients to unlock value in existing buildings while managing planning, cost and technical complexity.

  • Design-led refurbishment and fit-out for independent businesses and professional practices. Our work includes offices, high street premises and workspace within conservation areas, with a focus on clarity, programme control and commercial viability.

  • Small to mid-scale leisure projects including hospitality and recreational spaces. We prioritise atmosphere, operational efficiency and planning sensitivity, balancing brand identity with practical delivery.

  • Refurbishment and extension within live educational environments. We understand safeguarding, phasing and the need to minimise disruption while delivering compliant, durable and well-considered spaces.

  • Projects ranging from private clinics to specialist treatment environments. We coordinate closely with consultants to address clinical layouts, infection control, accessibility and regulatory compliance while maintaining a calm, professional aesthetic.

Modern indoor space with a white wall featuring a map of connections and labeled locations, black doors, yellow cylindrical seats on a gray carpet, and an industrial ceiling with exposed pipes and bright lighting.

Additional Services

Depending on your project, you might need more focused support; before, during, or beyond the main design process. These services can be used on their own or alongside our full architectural service, and cover things like early advice, visualisation, interiors and construction-phase support.

  • We are often approached by homeowners who are in the early stages of considering a renovation and/or extension project. Whether they have recently moved into a new home or are looking to relocate with a specific property in mind we can help give direction on what can/can’t be achieved.

    To cater to such clients, we offer a convenient standalone 2-hour consultation. This approach has proven effective as it allows homeowners to tap into our experience and expertise without committing to a full project immediately.

    During this consultation, our primary goal is to provide you with a clear direction for your project. We'll discuss costs, timeframes, and the technical aspects involved in the entire process. While this consultation won't include any design work, it will be based on your initial ideas for the project scope and any additional thoughts that may arise during our discussion. Our aim is to equip you with the essential insights needed to proceed confidently with your renovation or extension.

    We offer the above service for a fixed price of £700 +VAT for projects with an anticipated construction value of £100k - £1m.

  • We are able to place you into a 3D model of your project using virtual reality or even remotely via screenshare. We have found that this is an invaluable way of helping clients visualise their project.

  • At Host we are about transforming spaces into beautiful and functional environments. With our expertise and creative vision, we strive to create designs that reflect the unique personality and style of our clients.

    We believe that great design has the power to enhance lives. We understand that your home or workspace is a reflection of your identity and should be a place where you feel inspired and comfortable. Our goal is to collaborate with you to bring your vision to life and exceed your expectations.

    With years of experience in the industry, we have honed our skills in creating stunning interiors for a variety of spaces, including residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. From concept development to final execution, we pay meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every element harmoniously fits together.

    We pride ourselves on staying up to date with the latest design trends and innovations, while also drawing inspiration from timeless aesthetics. Our team combines a keen eye for aesthetics with practical knowledge of materials, finishes, and space planning, resulting in designs that are both visually captivating and functional.

    Client satisfaction is at the core of our business. We value open communication and transparency throughout the design process, ensuring that your input is incorporated at every stage. Our team is committed to delivering projects on time and within budget, while never compromising on quality.

    Whether you are looking to transform your living space, revamp your office, or create a memorable hospitality venue, Host is here to bring your vision to life. Explore our portfolio to see examples of our past projects and get inspired.

  • We can act as Contract Administrator during the construction phase, representing your interests and helping to ensure that the project is delivered as agreed. This includes issuing instructions, assessing progress and valuations, and certifying payments — all in line with the terms of the building contract.

    We typically perform this role under a traditional JCT contract or RIBA domestic building contract, depending on the scale and structure of the project. Having us involved during construction means you have an experienced professional managing communication with the builder, keeping an eye on quality and cost, and helping to resolve issues as they arise.

Read more about Host Architecture & our approach in our Blog.