Jargon Explained

TermDefinition
ARBArchitects Registration Board
ArchitectThe planner, designer and overseer of built form. Architect is a legally protected title - qualified architects are listed by the ARB.
Architectural AssistantA partially qualified architect. A Part 1 has completed their studies to Undergraduate level. A Part 2 has completed their studies to Masters level.
Architectural TechnicianA draughtsperson specialising in Technical Drawings associated with Architecture.
Building ControlThe Local Authority office overseeing inspections and permissions to do with Building Regulations. This can be done through your local council or you can privately appoint an independent building control consultancy company.
Building NoticeThe notice given to the Local Building Control office at the commencement of building works.
Building RegulationsA set of standards that all building works must comply to, which are checked at specific stages of build by Local Authority Building Inspectors.
Certificate of LawfulnessAn application to the Local Planners to certify thet your proposal is Lawful under Permitted Development rights.
Chartered ArchitectA qualified and experienced architect approved and listed by RIBA.
ElevationsDrawings of a particular face of a building.
Permitted DevelopmentAllowable alterations and additions within the parameters of the guidelines that do not require Planning Permission
Planning ApplicationAn application to the Local Planning Authority for consent to build the designs & plans submitted.
Planning Consent/PermissionApproval of submitted plans granted by the Local Planning Committee. If granted generally you have 3 years to commence building. If denied you may appeal.
Planning OfficeThe Local Authority office overseeing all planning applications and enquiries.
PlansDrawings of the footprint of a building.
Pre-PlanningAn application to the Local Planners to assess the likelihood whether your proposal will achieve planning consent. Not a guarantee but a guideline.
RIBAThe Royal Institute of British Architects
SectionsDrawings of a cross section of a building or part of a building or building material.
SpecificationsDrawings or written instructions of the standard of building method or building material required to be used in construction.
Structural EngineerAn engineer who specialises in structural calculation and design in compliance with Building Regulations.
Technical DrawingsDrawings by a professional such as an Architect with a Structural Engineer that specify build method and material to be compliant with Building Regulations, Planning Consent and sound construction.
Contact Us

01202 232423

5 Castle St, Christchurch,
Dorset, BH23 1DP

info@studioarkell.com

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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.