How can I check the quality of an architectural designer’s work?

Ask to view a portfolio of completed projects, ideally ones similar to your own. If possible, arrange to visit past works in person to see finishes and layouts. Read independent client reviews to gauge professionalism, and check if they belong to bodies like __CIAT or the ARB__. Both design examples and verified credentials show that an architectural designer can deliver.

Are architectural designers required to have insurance?

Yes. Most local architectural designers carry professional indemnity insurance to cover design errors and public liability insurance for accidents during site work. These policies protect both you and them. Always ask for proof before hiring. Reputable designers should provide documentation without hesitation.

Do local architectural designers charge a consultation fee?

Some offer free introductory meetings to discuss ideas, while others charge for site visits, sketches, and detailed advice. Fees are more common for complex or large projects, and often include valuable early planning guidance. Confirm costs in advance so you know exactly what’s included.

What qualifications should an architectural designer have?

Many have formal training in architecture, building design, or construction management. Membership in recognised bodies such as __CIAT or RIBA__ demonstrates professional commitment and adherence to industry standards.

What’s the difference between an architect and an architectural designer?

Architects are ARB-registered and legally recognised, often specialising in complex or bespoke builds. Architectural designers may offer similar services for __extensions, remodels, and residential work__ but without the registration requirement, which can sometimes reduce costs.

How can I make sure architectural designs meet local regulations?

Ask how they handle planning permission and building regulations. Architectural designers should know local requirements, prepare compliant drawings, and handle applications on your behalf to avoid delays.

Find Local Architectural Designers Near Me

Some of our top rated architectural designers

2120 Results

Sort by:

Eco Design Partnership Ltd
Rating: 5 out of 5
Welcome to Eco Design Partnership an architectural practice that are engaging clients across the region with our fresh approach to building design; led by design flare and backed up with sound technical knowledge our projects have won many plaudits.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 5 Feb 2019
Toby has been amazing. We chose Toby mainly because he wanted to design us a family home that worked for us. He was extremely patient as we weren’t always sure and came up with great ideas. Nothing was too much trouble. As we were new to this, he was always very supportive when we had questions / wanted a quick phone call. We’re incredibly happy with the results and our planning has passed! Looking forward to the final structural drawings now!
Jeffrey Goodchild MCIAT
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
I am a qualified Architectural Technologist, With 40 years experience. I undertake Householder extensions of any type & New build houses. I use CAD to create drawings, ready for presentation to the council for approval and for use by your builder. I am a fully qualified professional member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (MCIAT) and carry Professional Indemnity Insurance so you have full peace of mind.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 30 Jan 2019
Good response and drawings passed first time.
Mark Cooper
Rating: 5 out of 5
At Cooper Clark Design we will provide a professional creative Architect's service at competitive rates. We also have the resources of other building professionals such as structural engineers, when required, to provide a comprehensive design service.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 29 Mar 2016
Mark is extremely helpful and knowledgeable with his trade - it is reassuring that he used to work for Liverpool council so he knows the ropes so to speak! He took me through the entire design and planning process and was extremely thorough in his approach with high attention to detail. His drawings, tender docs and communication were clear and precise and his advice was spot on. Trustworthy and highly recommended. Would definitely use again.
GOOD Design and Build Ltd
Rating: 5 out of 5
We are a local Design & Build studio based in SW London. We specialise in loft conversions, kitchen extensions, basements and full house refurbishments. We are a team of architects, structural engineers and builders to help you from planning to execution. We provide full start to finish project management services and guarantee 100% client satisfaction.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 9 Mar 2018
Amol is a really nice guy. The brief I gave him was pretty specific so we didn't get the chance to see much in the way of his design flair but the drawings were all of excellent quality. After an initial issue with applying for the wrong type of planning permission Amol more than redeemed himself by talking the planners around after they initially turned down my application. Aftercare has also been excellent...we needed to contact him again after a year to get some structural calculations which he supplied quickly and without fuss.
Concept (Yorkshire) Ltd
Rating: 5 out of 5
We are a design and build company with many years experience. We can take your project from the Architectural design stage right through to the completion of the build, we have all trades available, and undertake property maintenance, refurb's, conversion's, extension's and new build's. We also have a roofing division. We are CHAS and Safe Contractor registered, and are fully insured. We guarantee to give you a reliable, professional service with a high quality finish, on time and on budget.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Restoration & Refurbishment- 1 Aug 2018
An excellent service. Gary and Mick have great vision and nothing is too much trouble.They are courteous friendly and have a good eye for detail. They have a highly skilled team and work is of the highest standard. We are delighted with the results, which are much admired by all our friends. We would have no hesitation in recommending Concept
UNI-F.LTD
Rating: 5 out of 5
Electrical works - Fire, Emergency, Security systems,CCTV, data cabling, Online control systems: Automatics, Smart Meters, Boilers, ect. Additional Works: Interior Design - 2D drawings with 3D visualisation. Layout and composition. Colour, lights, materials, furniture ect. Graphic Design - logo creation, menu, banner, leaflet and much more.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Electrical- 8 May 2016
Efficient, good price and nice person
KB Architect
Rating: 5 out of 5
KB Architecture is an architectural practice dedicated to providing you with professional service. We offer initial design options for your consideration, planning applications, building regulations applications and construction stage project management for both domestic and commercial clients.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 27 Apr 2017
It's taken me a long time to get round to writing the feedback but Keri was great to work with. She listened to what I wanted, gave great advice, did everything she said she would, handled the local council in a friendly and efficient way and came up with some great plans and alternatives for my limited space. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an architect.
BMAC STUDIO ARCHITECTURE AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
Rating: 5 out of 5
I am a chartered Architect with over 10 years professional experience. We consider our self a natural problem solver, highly innovative with local and international experience stretching across the Residential Commercial, Leisure, Retail sectors.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 29 Jul 2019
Creative ideas and professional service. Comprehensive building plans including 3d drawings to help visualise the concept. I am happy to recommend Bruno for your project
Glasper Lee Design Limited
Rating: 5 out of 5
Glasper Lee Design based in Bishop Auckland is ran by Matthew Lee who holds MCIAT status, a protected title granted by CIAT demonstrating he is experienced, qualified & competent to offer architectural services from inception to completion. We cater for domestic extensions, new build dwellings, residential developments & commercial schemes. We are a professional and friendly practice who are more than happy to have a no obligation chat with prospective clients about their projects requirements.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 29 Jun 2020
Using Matthew for the design of our extension was a great decision, Matthew patiently listened to our idea's and requirements and together with his experience produced a design which was exactly what we required and his 3D images really helped us visualize what the finished article would look like. His management of our planning application was a valuable bonus. Have already recommended Matthew to friends, and would not hesitate to do so again.
LK Architecture
Rating: 5 out of 5
LK Architecture is an ARB Registered Architectural practice undertaking; Extensions Conversions New Builds Planning Applications Building Control Applications Structural calculations 3D images We have extensive experience and knowledge guiding our clients from design through to completion. You can rely on us to complete a project to a high standard with creative ideas, ensuring you get the most out of the space you have. We are friendly, approachable and easy to work with!
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 27 Apr 2018
Lindsey did a wonderful job for drawings of our extension. Excellent communication, nothing was too much trouble and she suggested great ideas. We would definitely recommend her.
MW Designs
Rating: 5 out of 5
I am a Technical CAD Draughtsman with 20 years experience in the residential extension and home improvement industry. I can undertake any drawing work required for your property alterations and offer advice regarding design, planning permission and building control. I can also submit your drawings to the Local Authority and act as your Planning Agent. I have contacts who I can recommend or appoint for structural calculations, building work and independent building control services.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Good fast and reasonable: fair price
Moksud Khan
Rating: 5 out of 5
I am an ARB registered and RIBA Chartered Architect with 8 years experience in the industry. I provide architectural services for all stages of a construction project including concept design and feasibility study, planning drawings, measured survey drawings, tender drawings, construction and building control drawings.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 29 Aug 2020
Very professional and reliable. Good price. Highly recommended.
CTS Solutions Ltd
Rating: 5 out of 5
A specialist loft conversion company that has been in business for 20 years, however, we have since branched out to all types of projects (extensions, refurbs, garage conversions etc). We can prepare and submit drawings on your behalf, for Planning Permission and Building Regulation Approval. Also, we can carry out the structural design, meaning you don't need to employ an architect! However, if you have drawings done already, we are happy to price your project and build from these.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Asset Lofts came to our rescue when another company had let us down. They were professional and genuinely supportive right from the outset. The loft conversion (inc. full chimney removal) and patio works were completed in 5 weeks and this in our eyes was a building miracle. The workmanship and finish is of the highest standard. They hold accreditation with many of the industries leading bodies and that sets them apart from others. We highly recommend them.
Glass Cube Design Ltd
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Twice recognised for an 'award winning' project, at Glass Cube Design and Architecture we provide services for properties, offices and other buildings. Also provide end to end project management on home developments. Over 35 years in designing plans, project management and property consultancy. Have done technical design, had approvals on listed buildings and greenfield sites for extensions and planning. Our prices are highly competitive and offer a free consultation to your home.
Get in touch
Latest review:
CAD / Drawings- 15 Apr 2025
worst job done! left all beams and columns as it is on the plan which was meant to be hidden. DO NOT HIRE THEM
LFD Design Limited
Rating: 5 out of 5
Please be aware, we will not be able to undertake any further projects at this time. Based in East Kilbride, Glasgow, we are a professional and reliable company offering Architectural services to residential customers. This includes drawings for Planning and Building Warrant applications. We undertake projects of various sizes, ranging from internal alterations, garage conversions and extensions to residential properties.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 11 Dec 2017
Tom took the time to understand our requirements and came up with plans that matched exactly. LFD handled all negotiations with the Planning and Building Warrant departments of the Local Authority and this meant the plans were completed and approved on time and on budget. Tom will continue to work with us as the building work progresses and provides a great sounding board for ideas and for solutions to problems. We would recommend LFD design without hesitation.
Lamb Architects
Rating: 5 out of 5
Lamb Architects are a creative, design led studio based in the South East, specialising in residential extensions, new build and refurbishment projects.
Get in touch
Latest review:
Architecture- 17 Apr 2018
Jason was a a pleasure to deal with. Listened to the brief, costed the works, managed expectations and delivered well in advance of the timeframe initially suggested. I would highly recommend him to others and will be looking to approach him for future work.