Accurate measured surveys, captured digitally.
Every good design starts with a detailed understanding of the existing home. At Downland Studio, a digital measured survey is the first practical stage of developing your extension, loft conversion or alteration: a reliable record to design around from the outset.
What happens during the site visit?
We use specialist digital measuring technology to capture the existing layout, wall thicknesses, openings and key dimensions within the agreed survey scope. Important dimensions and building information are checked and supplemented using precision laser measurement where required.
Depending on the project, the survey also records relevant ceiling heights, levels, accessible roof space, external elevations and the relationship between the house and its surroundings. The scope is agreed around the work you are considering and what can be safely accessed.
From first visit to first design
The measurements are the starting information. We check and interpret them to produce the existing Revit model and architectural drawings. The measuring technology does not automatically create Downland Studio’s drawings or Revit models.
That existing model provides a connected foundation for developing layouts and design options, preparing planning drawings and progressing into technical design. Digital floor-plan information helps us move efficiently from the initial site visit into design, reducing unnecessary repeat visits and helping your project get underway quickly.
Further visits or checks may still be needed where information is concealed, access is restricted or the developing design raises additional questions. Technology supports professional judgement and verification throughout the process.
A useful record of your home
Following the survey, a PDF copy of your measured floor plan is added to your Downland Studio Client Portal. Alongside the project’s drawings and documents, it gives you a useful digital record of your existing property.
The agreed scope determines the drawings produced. These may include existing floor plans, elevations, sections or roof information needed for the project.
Why does accurate existing information matter?
Room proportions, wall positions, openings and levels affect what can be designed and how it can be built. Reliable existing information helps identify practical constraints early and supports coordination as the design develops.
For a loft conversion, for example, checked roof-space measurements help us consider headroom and the stair position together. For an extension, understanding the existing layout helps the new space connect sensibly with the rooms you already use.
Can estate agent plans be used instead?
Estate agent floor plans can help explain your initial ideas, but they are usually prepared for marketing and should not be assumed to provide the detail needed for architectural design. We review any existing drawings and agree what measurement or verification is needed for your project.
What are the limits of a measured survey?
A measured building survey records the accessible property within the agreed scope. It is not a structural assessment, condition survey or investigation of concealed construction. Structural engineers and other specialists may be needed, with further checks or opening-up information agreed where appropriate.
What does it cost?
Measured surveys start from £400, with a tailored proposal for your property and agreed scope. Existing survey-fee credits towards subsequent services apply as set out in your proposal and the Architectural Fees & Service Guide.
Start with your existing home
Downland Studio works with homeowners across Worthing and West Sussex, bringing digital measurement, considered design and practical technical development into one connected process.