Full Refurbishment, Highcliffe

5 Bed Refurbishment & Reconfiguration

Set within a mature treescape on a generous plot, the existing bungalow had remained untouched since it was first built. While the ground floor offered ample space, the first floor was limited to two bedrooms, with much of the area lost to circulation and multiple hallways.

Working largely within the existing footprint, the proposal removes the original roof and increases the eaves height to achieve two and a half storeys overall. The new layout has been carefully reconfigured to meet the family’s needs, creating a generous sociable living space that opens onto the garden, four well-proportioned bedrooms on the first floor, and a striking master suite on the second.

Externally, the design embraces a traditional aesthetic, using farmhouse brick, soft render, clay tiles with bonnet details, and timber casement windows to create a timeless, characterful home that sits comfortably within its setting.

Floor Plans

Recent Projects

01202 232423

5 Castle St, Christchurch,
Dorset, BH23 1DP

info@studioarkell.com

Built with

by b4b marketing

Interior Design

We can also assist with interiors specifications — for example, kitchen layouts, bespoke joinery, finishes, and fittings.

We can prepare a tailored quote based on the level of detail and input you’d like from us. The more information we specify upfront together, the smoother the build process will be, and the more accurate your contractor’s costings will be, helping to avoid unexpected costs.

This scope would be agreed under a fixed fee.

Pre Application

If the proposed scheme is particularly large, complex, or potentially contentious, we may recommend submitting a pre-application enquiry to the local planning authority before proceeding with a full planning application. This can help clarify requirements, identify potential issues early, and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

This scope would be agreed under a fixed fee.

BREGs

After planning approval, the final stage is Technical Design, where we create detailed Building Regulation Drawings (BREGs).

A few important notes:

  • You’ll need Building Control sign-off for the build. This can be done through the local authority or privately, with fees paid directly to Building Control.

  • We can introduce you to trusted local structural engineers, or we’re happy to collaborate with any chartered engineer of your choice. Their fees are separate and payable directly to them.

  • We can also introduce you to reputable builders we regularly work with, if needed.

Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon issue of the drawings to Building Control.

Planning

Once you’re happy with the proposed design, we’ll prepare your planning application pack.

A typical planning submission includes:

  • Location & Block Plan

  • Existing Plans & Elevations

  • Proposed Plans & Elevations (including coloured elevations)

  • Proposed Site Plan

  • Design & Access Statement

We’ll handle the submission on your behalf and liaise with the council throughout, keeping you updated every step of the way.

Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon submission of the application.

Concept

This is the exciting part — shaping a design that’s perfectly suited to you.

After our initial consultation, we’ve prepared a brief and a list of drawing deliverables. Here’s how this stage works: We start with a site survey to produce accurate existing plans and elevations. We then develop proposed design drawings based on the agreed brief. Once ready, we’ll invite you to our office for a design review. We’ll refine the design based on your feedback and issue a final drawing pack for you to sign off. Our fees are split into two payments: 50% upon instruction and 50% upon issue of the drawings.