Residential Architectural Design & Planning Services
Building Surveyor-led architectural design and planning consultancy for house extensions, new builds and historic properties across Bristol.
Draftforge provides structured, policy-aware design services from initial measured survey through to planning decision. Our approach combines technical understanding with practical design to ensure proposals are realistic, compliant and construction-ready.
House Extension Planning & Design
Draftforge provides architectural design and planning application services for homeowners seeking to extend and improve their properties.
We work with a wide range of residential property types, including Victorian terraces, 1930s semi-detached houses, detached homes and contemporary developments across Bristol.
Services include:
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Measured building surveys
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Preparation of existing drawings
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Design development and proposed plans
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Rear, side and double storey extensions
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Wraparound and kitchen extensions
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Planning application submission
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Application management through to decision
Each proposal is carefully prepared with consideration of local planning policy, neighbouring amenity and design character.
New Build Planning Applications
We provide architectural drawing packages and planning submission services for individual dwellings, replacement dwellings and small residential developments.
From site assessment through to planning approval, we ensure proposals are structured and aligned with local authority guidance.
Services include:
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Site layout plans
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Proposed floor plans and elevations
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Sections and contextual drawings
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Design and Access Statements (where required)
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Planning application submission
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Liaison with the local planning authority
Our building surveying background ensures proposals are technically realistic and practical for construction.
Optional Visualisations
High-quality rendered visuals can be provided once the proposed design stage has been completed. This ensures any visual material reflects a scheme that has already been developed with planning considerations in mind.
Visualisation fees are quoted separately, depending on the complexity and level of detail required.
Historic & Listed Building Services
With experience in historic building surveying, Draftforge provides sensitive architectural design and planning consultancy for heritage and period properties.
We understand the importance of preserving character while adapting buildings for modern living.
Services include:
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Listed building consent applications
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Conservation area extensions
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Alterations to period properties
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Heritage-sensitive design proposals
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Planning and listed building application management
We regularly assist homeowners across Bristol and surrounding areas with conservation-related projects.
Planning Application Management
For clients who already have design proposals prepared, we offer structured planning submission and application management services.
This includes:
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Review of existing proposals
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Preparation of planning drawings where required
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Submission via the Planning Portal
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Ongoing liaison with planning officers
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Response to queries and minor amendments
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Management through to formal decision
Our focus is to provide clear, professional representation throughout the planning process.
How the Process Works
Draftforge provides a structured approach to residential planning projects.
Planning applications are typically prepared and submitted within 2 weeks of measured survey, subject to project scope and timely confirmation.
Stage 1 – Measured Survey & Initial Consultation
Accurate measurement of your property and discussion of your project goals.
Stage 2 – Existing Drawings Prepared
Clear existing plans forming the foundation of the proposal.
Stage 3 – Design Development & Proposed Drawings
Policy-aware design tailored to your property and local guidance.
Stage 4 – Planning Submission
Preparation and submission of the planning application on your behalf.
Stage 5 – Managed Through to Decision
Ongoing liaison with the local authority until a formal decision is issued.
Why Choose Draftforge
✔ Building Surveyor–Led Expertise
In-depth technical understanding of construction, planning policy and historic buildings.
✔ Policy-Aware Design
Proposals developed with clear alignment to local authority guidance from the outset.
✔ Efficient, Structured Delivery
A disciplined workflow with defined stages and realistic timeframes.
✔ Proactive Application Management
Direct liaison with planning officers and timely responses to queries through to formal decision.
✔ Clear, Fixed Fees
Transparent pricing agreed in advance, with no hidden costs.
✔ Direct, 1-to-1 Service
You work directly with your consultant throughout — ensuring continuity, accountability and clear communication.
✔ Heritage & Conservation Area Experience
Proven success securing approvals for sensitive and complex schemes, including large residential extensions and multi-unit conversions within conservation areas.
Areas Covered Across Bristol & North Somerset
South West England
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Bristol, UK
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Clifton, Bristol, UK
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Redland, Bristol, UK
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Cotham, Bristol, UK
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Bishopston, Bristol, UK
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Henleaze, Bristol, UK
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Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, UK
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Stoke Bishop, Bristol, UK
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Sneyd Park, Bristol, UK
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Long Ashton, UK
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Abbots Leight, UK
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Southville, Bristol, UK
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Bedminster, Bristol, UK
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Totterdown, Bristol, UK
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Fishponds, Bristol, UK
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Keynsham, UK
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Yate, UK
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Thornbury, UK
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Portishead, UK
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Clevedon, UK
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Weston-super-Mare, UK
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and surrounding areas
Architectural Services Across Bristol & Surrounding Areas
We provide architectural design, house extensions and planning applications across Bristol, Portishead, Clevedon and Weston-super-Mare.
Planning a Residential Project?
Draftforge provides residential architectural design and planning services across Bristol, UK, Clevedon, Portishead and Weston-super-Mare.