Studio Guidance
Projects on your home can often feel overwhelming at the beginning, especially when navigating planning permission, drawings, Building Regulations, party wall notices and construction terminology for the first (or second, or third!) time.
Studio Guidance is intended to answer some of the more common questions homeowners have when starting a project, helping make the process feel a little clearer and more approachable.
Planning Permission & Permitted Development
-
Not always. Many rear and side extensions can fall under permitted development, although this depends on the size of the proposal, your property type and whether there are any planning restrictions affecting the property. Downland Studio regularly advises homeowners across Worthing and West Sussex on whether planning permission is likely to be required before progressing with drawings.
-
Permitted development allows certain types of residential work to be carried out without full planning permission, provided the proposal falls within specific size and design limitations set out by planning legislation.
-
Most householder planning applications are typically determined within around 8 weeks from submission, although this can vary depending on the local authority and complexity of the proposal.
-
Most planning applications require existing and proposed floor plans, elevations, site plans and location plans. Depending on the project, additional supporting information may also be required.
-
Yes — although projects within conservation areas often require a more sensitive design approach and additional consideration during the planning process.
Building Regulations & Technical Drawings
-
Planning drawings focus on the appearance, layout and overall proposal for planning approval. Building Regulations drawings are far more detailed technical drawings prepared for compliance, construction and Building Control approval.
-
Building Regulations drawings are typically required before construction begins and are used to demonstrate compliance with current Building Regulations standards.
-
Technical drawing packages often include construction details, sections, insulation information, structural coordination and other technical information required for Building Control approval and construction purposes.
-
In most cases, no. Planning drawings alone usually do not contain enough technical information for construction and Building Regulations approval.
Measured Surveys & Design Process
-
A measured survey involves accurately measuring the existing property and producing existing floor plans and elevations which form the foundation for the design process.
-
Yes — accurate existing drawings are an essential starting point for residential design work and help avoid issues later in the process.
-
Absolutely. Many homeowners initially only have rough ideas or frustrations with how their home currently functions. Part of the design process is helping shape those ideas into practical and considered solutions.
-
Yes — internal reconfigurations can often dramatically improve how a home feels and functions without increasing the size of the property.
Loft Conversions
-
Many loft conversions fall under permitted development, although larger dormers, roof alterations and properties within conservation areas may still require planning permission.
-
As a general guide, lofts with around 2.2m or more of existing head height above the current ceiling joists tend to provide the most workable starting point, although every property is different.
-
Construction costs vary considerably depending on the scale and specification of the project, although many loft conversions across Sussex typically range from around £40,000 for a basic design but typically cost upwards of this.
Costs & Construction
-
The cost of residential drawings varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. Guide pricing for typical residential work can be found within the Your Project Journey section of the website.
-
Construction costs vary significantly depending on the size, specification and complexity of the project, although many extensions currently fall somewhere between £2,000–£3,000+ per m².
-
In many cases, yes — particularly for smaller extensions or phased works — although this depends on the scale of the project and how disruptive the works are likely to become.
Party Wall Notices
-
Party wall notices are commonly required when carrying out works close to or directly affecting a neighbouring property, such as loft conversions, extensions near boundaries or structural alterations to shared walls.
-
Yes — straightforward party wall notices can often be prepared as part of the wider residential design process where required.
Working Together
-
Downland Studio is based in Worthing and primarily works across Worthing, West Sussex and surrounding South Coast areas.
-
Absolutely. Informal initial conversations are always welcome for homeowners exploring ideas or unsure where to begin.
-
Yes — residential projects often involve collaboration with structural engineers, contractors and other consultants throughout the design and construction process.
Still unsure where to start?