Our Architectural Design and Planning Process
At MSK Design Ltd, we guide homeowners, developers and property owners through a clear architectural design and planning process, from the first conversation through to planning approval, technical design, construction support and project handover.
Based in High Barnet, we work across Barnet, Enfield and North London, helping clients understand what is possible, what planning route is most appropriate and what steps are required to move a project from an initial idea to a completed building.
Every project is different, but our process is structured, transparent and planning-led. This helps reduce uncertainty, identify risks early and give each project the strongest possible foundation.
Why a Clear Architectural Process Matters
Successful projects are rarely the result of drawings alone. They depend on preparation, planning strategy, technical coordination and clear decision-making.
Before design work progresses too far, it is important to understand:
the client’s brief and objectives;
the planning history of the property;
site constraints and opportunities;
permitted development options;
local planning policy;
budget and programme expectations;
Building Regulations and technical requirements;
consultant input that may be needed;
construction and delivery risks.
Our staged process helps clients make informed decisions at the right time, avoiding unnecessary redesign, planning delays or unexpected construction issues later in the project.
Our Work Stages
We use a structured six-stage process that can be adapted to suit the size and complexity of each project.
The stages are:
Preparation and feasibility
Concept design
Developed design and planning
Technical design and Building Regulations
Tender, contractor appointment and construction support
Handover, completion and aftercare
Some clients appoint us for the early feasibility and planning stages only. Others retain us through technical design, tender, contractor coordination and contract administration.
Our work stages
We use a structured six-stage process that can be adapted to suit the size and complexity of each project.
Some clients appoint us for the early feasibility and planning stages only. Others retain us through technical design, tender, contractor coordination and contract administration.
Stage 1 - Preparation of project
This is where the project begins.
At this stage, we meet with you to understand your aims, priorities, budget and timescales. We review the property or site and identify the planning, design and technical issues that may influence what can be achieved.
This stage may include:
initial consultation;
project brief development;
review of client aspirations;
planning history review;
site constraints assessment;
early feasibility studies;
review of potential planning routes;
budget and programme discussion;
identification of required surveys or reports;
appointment documents and scope of service.
For many projects, this is the most important stage. A well-considered brief and early planning review can prevent wasted time and help establish a realistic route forward.
RIBA STAGE 0-1
Preparation of project brief considering:
Project outcomes:
Sustainability outcomes
Quality aspirations
Spatial requirements
Potential planning routes and options to achieve compliance (where possible at this stage)
Preparation of appointment documents
Undertake Feasibility studies
Agree a Project Budget
Obtain site information (surveys/reports)
Prepare a project programme/timeline
Stage 2 - Concept design
Once the brief and initial feasibility work are understood, we begin developing design options.
Concept design is an exploratory stage. It allows us to test ideas, review layouts, consider massing and identify the strongest design direction before committing to a final scheme.
This stage may include:
concept layouts;
2D drawings;
3D visual studies where appropriate;
review of design options;
assessment against the client brief;
initial review of planning risks;
review of cost implications;
early consultant input where needed;
refinement of the preferred design direction.
For homeowners, this stage helps visualise how the property could work. For developers, it helps test density, massing, access, unit mix and planning potential.
RIBA STAGE 2
Preparation of concept schemes (in 2D and 3D) aligned with client brief
Exploration of development options reviewed against client brief
Review of cost plan
Review of potential engineering requirements
Update client brief where required
Appointment of specialist consultants (known at this stage)
Stage 3 - Developed design & planning
At this stage, the preferred concept is developed into a coordinated planning scheme.
The aim is to move from design exploration into a clear, justified and submission-ready proposal. We refine the drawings, consider relevant policies and prepare the required planning documents.
This stage may include:
developed planning drawings;
design refinement;
planning strategy;
pre-application advice where appropriate;
consultant coordination;
daylight, energy, drainage, structural or transport input where required;
planning statement or design and access statement;
preparation of application documents;
submission and monitoring of the planning application;
responses to planning officer comments.
This is a key stage for house extensions, loft conversions, new build homes, flat conversions, mixed-use schemes and residential developments.
Our aim is to present a clear and policy-led planning case that gives the proposal the best chance of approval.
RIBA STAGES 2-3
Initial review of Building Regulation requirements (limited/where possible)
Engineering review (limited/where possible)
Review design changes and cost plan, update client brief where required
Confirmation of final design and planning route
Preparation of planning application documents
Submission of planning application/s and monitoring
Stage 4 - Technical design/BIM
Following planning approval, the project moves into technical design.
This stage develops the approved planning scheme into a more detailed package suitable for Building Regulations, tendering and construction.
Technical design may include:
Building Regulations drawings;
construction details;
coordination with structural engineers;
coordination with energy assessors;
drainage and services coordination;
fire safety and means of escape considerations;
accessibility requirements;
material specifications;
discharge of planning conditions;
Building Control submission;
tender or construction drawing package.
This stage is where the design becomes buildable. It is also where many practical issues are resolved, such as structure, insulation, drainage, ventilation, fire safety, waterproofing and build sequencing.
RIBA STAGE 3-4
Discharge planning conditions
Address statutory applications (Utilities, Building Control etc)
Preparation of performance specifications for M&E installations
Preparation of initial fit-out specifications/aspirations
Appointment, coordination and management of specialist consultants, integration of responses received to final design/technical packages.
Identification of construction contract route
Preparation of technical design packages for tender/construction
Stage 5 - Tender, contract management and construction
Once the technical package is prepared, we can assist with tendering and contractor appointment.
This stage helps clients obtain contractor prices, review tenders and set up the project for construction.
Depending on the appointment, this may include:
identifying suitable contractors;
issuing tender information;
responding to contractor queries;
reviewing tender returns;
advising on contractor appointment;
preparing or coordinating building contracts;
reviewing construction phase information;
site inspections;
responding to site queries;
reviewing variations;
valuations and payment certificates;
contract administration duties.
For larger or more complex projects, this stage is important because it helps protect the client’s position during construction and keeps the project aligned with the approved design and contract requirements.
RIBA STAGES 4-5
Preparation of Construction Phase Plan
Identify/address party wall obligations
Identification of suitable contractors and specialist installers
Contractor/specialist installer review
Preparation of construction contract
Appointment of main contractor
Monitoring of works, on-site inspections
Address on site requests for information and queries
Carry out contract administrator duties, address variations, carry out valuations and award payment certificates
Address pre-completion commissioning and testing for regulatory compliance and activation of warranties.
Address on site snagging and defect in preparation of handover.
Issue Practical Completion certificate under contract
Stage 6 - Handover / Use
At this stage under a fully managed service, the development is handed over to the client and we enter a period of aftercare. We maintain contact with our clients after occupation to address any questions, review performance and assist in coordinating remedial works arising during the defects liability period.
This stage may include:
snagging inspections;
practical completion review;
coordination of completion documents;
review of testing and commissioning;
monitoring of defects;
post-completion support;
final certification where we are appointed under the contract;
review of any outstanding planning or Building Control matters.
A successful handover is not only about finishing the works. It is about ensuring the client understands the building, any remaining obligations are addressed and the completed project performs as intended.
RIBA STAGE 6-7
Hand over building in line with ‘Plan for Use’
Coordinate seasonal commissioning and maintenance in line with contract
Monitor, document and coordinate defects rectification
Post occupancy review
Implement management and maintenance plan
Undertake a post occupancy evaluation of the building performance in use
Verify project outcomes
Planning-Led Design from the Start
Planning is not something we leave until the end of the design process.
For many projects, planning strategy shapes the design from the beginning. This is especially important for:
house extensions;
flat conversions;
HMOs;
airspace developments;
mixed-use buildings;
conservation area projects;
enforcement or retrospective planning cases.
By reviewing planning constraints early, we can help identify the most appropriate route, whether that is permitted development, a Lawful Development Certificate, householder planning permission, full planning permission or pre-application advice.
How Our Process Helps Clients
Our process is designed to give clients clarity at each stage.
It helps answer important questions such as:
What can I build?
Do I need planning permission?
Is permitted development available?
What are the planning risks?
What drawings and reports are required?
How long will the process take?
What consultants do I need?
What happens after planning approval?
What is needed for Building Regulations?
How do I move from approval to construction?
This structured approach helps clients make better decisions and reduces the risk of surprises later in the project.
Architectural Services Across Barnet, Enfield and North London
MSK Design Ltd provides architectural design, planning and technical services for residential and mixed-use projects across Barnet, Enfield and North London.
Our services include:
planning strategy;
feasibility studies;
house extensions;
loft conversions;
new build homes;
flat conversions;
residential developments;
mixed-use developments;
Building Regulations drawings;
technical design packages;
contractor tender support;
contract administration;
project management;
Principal Designer services under the Building Regulations.
Whether you are extending your home, converting a property, developing a site or preparing a technical construction package, our process helps guide the project from the earliest idea through to the next stage of delivery.
FAQs
What is the architectural design process?
The architectural design process is the staged route used to develop a project from an initial brief through to concept design, planning, technical design, construction and handover. It helps organise the project, identify risks and make sure the right decisions are made at the right time.
When should I appoint an architect or architectural designer?
You should appoint an architectural designer as early as possible, ideally before committing to a design, builder or planning route. Early advice can help identify what is achievable, whether planning permission is required and what risks need to be addressed.
Do I need planning permission before Building Regulations drawings?
In most cases, yes. Planning permission or confirmation that the works are lawful is usually needed before detailed Building Regulations drawings are prepared. However, some early technical advice may be useful before planning submission, particularly on complex projects.
What happens after planning permission is approved?
After planning permission is approved, the project usually moves into technical design. This includes Building Regulations drawings, structural coordination, construction details, consultant input, discharge of planning conditions and preparation of information for tender or construction.
Can MSK Design help from planning through to construction?
Yes. MSK Design can assist from feasibility and planning through to technical design, tender support, contractor coordination, site inspections and contract administration, depending on the scope of appointment.
Does every project need all six stages?
No. Some projects only require feasibility and planning support, while others require a full service through to construction and handover. The scope can be tailored to suit the project, budget and client requirements.
Ready to Start?
If you are considering a house extension, loft conversion, new build home, residential development or mixed-use project, the best place to start is with early planning and design advice.
MSK Design Ltd can help you understand what is possible, what permissions may be required and how to move your project forward with confidence.
Book a consultation to discuss your project.