By Signature Design and Architecture, Whiteley ·
"Architect" is a protected title
In the UK, the word architect is protected by law. Only people registered with the Architects Registration Board can call themselves architects. Registration requires a recognised route of education and professional experience, and registered architects are bound by a code of conduct. Using the title without being registered is an offence.
That is why you will see many firms describe themselves as architectural designers. Signature Design and Architecture are architectural designers, not architects, and we never describe ourselves otherwise.
What architectural designers do
For many home projects, the work involved is the same whoever does it. A house extension, loft conversion or garage conversion needs a measured survey, a design, planning drawings or a lawful development certificate, and building regulations drawings with structural calculations. Architectural designers prepare exactly these kinds of drawings and submissions, and a large share of household extensions and loft conversions are designed this way.
In our case, that means surveys, plans and elevations, planning applications, building regulations drawings, coordinated structural calculations and, for larger projects, construction drawings. See our house extension plans page for an example of how that works in practice.
When a project might warrant an architect
There are projects where appointing a registered architect may be the better choice. Highly complex or unusual buildings, major heritage projects, large commercial schemes and projects where a client wants a particular architectural practice's design approach may all suit an architect. Some funders and organisations also require one. If your project falls into one of these categories, it is worth considering carefully, and we will say so honestly if we think that applies.
For most extensions, loft conversions, bungalow conversions and one-off homes, the more important question is not the title but whether the person you appoint has the right experience for your type of project.
House extension plans
- Single storey rear extensions, including open plan kitchen and family rooms
- Side return and infill extensions on terraced and semi-detached houses
- Wraparound extensions combining a side and rear addition
What to check when choosing anyone
Whoever you are considering, these questions will tell you far more than a job title:
- Can they show examples of similar work? Look at their projects.
- What do previous clients say? Read genuine reviews in the clients' own words.
- Who submits and manages the planning application, and who deals with the council?
- Are building regulations drawings included, or only planning drawings?
- Are structural calculations included or coordinated?
- Will they visit the property before quoting, and is the quotation clear about what is covered?
- Who will you actually deal with day to day?
Planning officers and building control
Planning officers and building control assess the drawings and the proposal, not the title of the person who prepared them. What matters is that the drawings are accurate, complete and clear, that the design addresses the planning policies and the effect on neighbours, and that the technical drawings meet building regulations. Good work is good work.
How we work
Our clients deal directly with Lee and Les. Every project starts with a free on-site consultation with no-obligation quotation, and we take projects from survey through planning to builder ready building regulations drawings. You can read more about us or browse our projects.
Other titles you may come across
Alongside architects and architectural designers, you may see architectural technologists, architectural technicians, building designers and plan drawing services. These are not protected titles in the way that architect is, and the services offered vary widely. Some firms prepare planning drawings only, leaving you to find someone else for building regulations. Others offer a full service from survey to construction drawings. The label matters less than a clear answer to what is included, who will do the work and how much experience they have with projects like yours.
Searching online for an architect near me will often bring up a mix of all of these. Rather than filtering by title, look at local examples of work, read what previous clients say, and ask for a clear quotation that sets out each stage. A home visit before quoting is a good sign, because it means the price reflects your actual house rather than a guess.
This guide is general information only and does not replace advice on your specific property. Rules can change, so always check the current position before starting work.
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Frequently asked questions
Is an architectural designer the same as an architect?
No. Architect is a protected title in the UK for people registered with the Architects Registration Board. Architectural designers are not registered architects.
Can an architectural designer submit a planning application?
Yes. Planning applications can be prepared and submitted by architectural designers, and councils assess the proposal rather than the title of the designer.
Do I need an architect for a house extension?
Not usually. Many house extensions and loft conversions are designed by architectural designers. Highly complex or major heritage projects may warrant an architect.
What should I check before appointing a designer?
Look at examples of similar work, read reviews, and check who submits planning and whether building regulations drawings and structural calculations are included.
Are Signature Design and Architecture architects?
No. We are architectural designers, and we never describe ourselves as architects.