HPA Approach
Howard Pease Architects are passionate about designing beautiful spaces that maximise a property's potential and fully enhance the quality of life for all who live in it.
Based at our Harpenden studio, we have over 25 years experience in creating stunning, bespoke family homes in both contemporary and classic styles; from large extensions to luxury new build homes, you are in safe hands. Each project begins by understanding your aspirations. We read between the lines and arrive at ideas you never knew you needed, unlocking the design of your dream home. Get in touch to discuss your project.
Embarking on a building project can be a little overwhelming. At Howard Pease Architects, we have completed hundreds of renovations and new build schemes so we are well placed to help you navigate yours. Here is an overview of what to expect.
Initial consultation
This is where we get the ball rolling by learning as much as possible about what you and you family need from your new home, as well providing our initial creative thoughts. Following a site survey to measure up the existing property, we compile a programme detailing everything you will need for the next steps.
This is where we get the ball rolling by learning as much as possible about what you and you family need from your new home, as well providing our initial creative thoughts. Following a site survey to measure up the existing property, we compile a programme detailing everything you will need for the next steps.
In what is probably the most important stage in the process, concept design provides the opportunity to explore all ideas to unlock your house’s full potential. To design well thought out, beautiful spaces, we refine ideas to create the preferred final design of the internal layout and ultimately how the building will look. The key to this stage’s success is collaboration; we ensure you are involved and consulted on all design elements.
The aesthetic, external materials and finishes are confirmed, which will provide the key inputs for the formal planning application. With a success rate of 95% in obtaining planning permissions, we are proud of our track record, particularly in difficult circumstances such a with Listed Buildings and those properties in Conservation and Green Belt areas.
This is where we focus on the details for the completion and submission of the required Building Regulation drawings and Specifications. We provide a full Services Design including lighting, electrical and plumbing plans. More detailed drawings of kitchens and bathrooms can be provided if required. We also offer access to our trusted professional consultants such as structural engineers, party wall surveyors as well as interior and landscape designers. We impartially help you navigate the tender process and share our portfolio of established contractors.
Once a contractor has been selected, we offer comprehensive project and cost management services to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget. With regular meetings and site inspections, working closely with the builder and issuing architect’s instructions, our hands on approach quickly resolves any issues should they arise.
Once your house is complete, we stay in touch and make sure any little niggles are resolved to ensure that you are as proud of your home as we are. We love to be able to show your beautiful finished home to future clients as they embark on their own build journey.