Question 1

Do I need planning permission for a house extension in London?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Many extensions in London can be built under Permitted Development (PD) rights, which means you don't need a formal planning application. However, PD rights are subject to strict size limits and conditions, and they can be removed or restricted in conservation areas, Article 4 Direction zones, flats, and listed buildings. We assess your property's PD rights as the first step of every project — it's the fastest and cheapest route where it applies.

Question 2

What is a Permitted Development Certificate (LDC) and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) — also called a Certificate of Lawful Use or Development — is a formal document from the council confirming that your proposed works are lawful under Permitted Development. It isn't legally required to carry out PD works, but it is strongly recommended. Without one, you may struggle to sell your property or remortgage in future, as solicitors and mortgage lenders increasingly ask for them as proof of lawfulness.

Question 3

What is Prior Approval and when do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Prior Approval is a lighter-touch process that sits between full planning permission and Permitted Development. It is required for certain larger extensions (notably rear extensions between 4m–8m for detached houses and 3m–6m for other houses under the Householder Prior Approval scheme), and for certain change-of-use applications. The council checks specific matters — such as impact on neighbours' amenity — rather than assessing the full planning merits. We handle Prior Approval submissions as part of our standard service.

Question 4

What does a planning application include?

Accepted Answer

A householder planning application typically includes: site location plan, existing and proposed floor plans and elevations, design and access statement (for many applications), and any supporting reports required by the council (heritage statement, arboricultural report, flood risk assessment, etc.). We prepare all drawings and documents in-house and manage the submission and officer correspondence on your behalf.

Question 5

Can I build without planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Only if your proposed works fall within Permitted Development rights or are otherwise exempt from planning control (e.g. internal alterations, certain outbuildings within limits). Building without planning permission when it is required is a serious legal risk — the council can issue an Enforcement Notice requiring demolition or reinstatement at your cost. We always confirm the correct planning route before any work begins.

Question 6

What planning issues are unique to London?

Accepted Answer

London has some of the most complex planning environments in the UK. Key London-specific factors include: the extensive network of conservation areas and listed buildings managed by 33 separate planning authorities; the Mayor of London's London Plan, which sets strategic policies on housing density, tall buildings, and sustainability; Article 4 Directions which remove Permitted Development rights in many areas; and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which can add significant cost to larger residential projects.

Question 7

What is pre-application advice and is it worth getting?

Accepted Answer

Pre-application advice is a formal meeting or written response from the council's planning team, given before you submit a planning application. It helps you understand how the council is likely to view your proposals, identify any show-stopping issues early, and refine your scheme before committing to a full application. For complex projects — particularly in conservation areas or involving significant scale — it is almost always worth the additional cost and time. We can advise whether pre-application is necessary for your specific project.

Question 8

What happens if my planning application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your application is refused, you have several options: revise the scheme to address the reasons for refusal and resubmit (the first resubmission within 12 months is usually free of charge); appeal to the Planning Inspectorate (success rates vary but our designs are developed to give the strongest possible chance); or take pre-application advice from the council to understand what an acceptable scheme might look like. We guide you through the best strategy in each case.

Question 9

How big can my rear extension be without planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Under Permitted Development (as of 2024), a single-storey rear extension can extend up to 4 metres beyond the rear wall of a detached house, or 3 metres for any other house type. Under the Prior Approval (Larger Home Extension) route, these limits increase to 8 metres for detached and 6 metres for other houses. All limits are subject to conditions on height, materials, and proximity to boundaries. These rights do not apply in conservation areas, to listed buildings, or where Article 4 Directions are in force.

Question 10

How big can a side extension be without planning permission?

Accepted Answer

A side extension can be built under Permitted Development if it is single storey, no wider than half the width of the original house, and no higher than 4 metres. However, side extensions in many London conservation areas and Article 4 zones require full planning permission. We check your property's specific rights before recommending any route.

Question 11

Can I build a double-storey rear extension under Permitted Development?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with strict limits. A two-storey rear extension can be built under PD if it does not extend more than 3 metres beyond the original rear wall, is no closer than 7 metres to the rear boundary, and meets conditions on height, roof pitch, and window glazing. In practice, most double-storey extensions in London require a full planning application because of conservation area designations or Article 4 Directions.

Question 12

What is a wrap-around extension?

Accepted Answer

A wrap-around extension combines a rear and side infill extension to create a large L-shaped ground-floor addition. They are very popular in London terraced and semi-detached properties as they can dramatically transform a kitchen-diner area. Almost all wrap-arounds in London require full planning permission. We design them to maximise light and space while satisfying the council's impact tests on neighbours' amenity.

Question 13

Do I need Party Wall Agreements for an extension?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires you to notify adjoining owners if your works are within 3 metres of their property (for excavations) or involve work to a shared wall or boundary. A Party Wall Award — agreed between your surveyor and the neighbours' surveyor — must be in place before work begins on the notifiable elements. Shorplans works closely with experienced Party Wall surveyors and can make introductions. Failure to comply with the Party Wall Act can result in injunctions that halt your build.

Question 14

What materials should I use for a rear extension?

Accepted Answer

This depends heavily on your property type and the planning context. In conservation areas, the council will often require matching or complementary materials to the main house — traditionally brick, lime render, or natural slate. For contemporary extensions, high-quality cladding, zinc, or structural glazing can be acceptable where the design justification is strong. We advise on materials strategy as part of the design process, informed by the council's specific guidance and any relevant conservation area character appraisals.

Question 15

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Accepted Answer

Most loft conversions in London can be carried out under Permitted Development rights, meaning no planning application is required. The most common type — a dormer extension to the rear — is generally permitted as long as it does not exceed 40 cubic metres of additional roof space (for terraced houses) or 50 cubic metres (for detached and semi-detached), and meets conditions on materials and windows. Front-facing dormers, mansard roofs, and hip-to-gable conversions may require planning permission, particularly in conservation areas.

Question 16

What types of loft conversion are there?

Accepted Answer

The main types are: Dormer (the most common in London — a box-shaped extension projecting from the roof slope, creating usable headroom); Velux/Rooflight (the simplest option — adding roof windows only, with no structural roof alteration); Hip-to-Gable (converting a hipped roof end into a gable wall to gain space, often combined with a rear dormer); Mansard (a flat or near-flat roof with steeply pitched sides — popular in terraced rows as it creates maximum space but almost always requires planning permission); and L-shaped Dormer (a rear and side dormer combined, suited to semi-detached and end-of-terrace properties).

Question 17

How much headroom do I need for a loft conversion?

Accepted Answer

The minimum usable headroom for a loft conversion is generally 2.2 metres at the highest point of the floor-to-ceiling height. Below this, the space becomes difficult to use for a habitable room. We carry out a full measured survey of your existing roof space and advise on the most suitable conversion type based on your structural ridge height.

Question 18

Will my loft conversion need to comply with Building Regulations?

Accepted Answer

Yes — all loft conversions require Building Regulations approval regardless of whether planning permission is needed. Building Regulations set standards for structure, fire safety (escape routes, fire doors, mains-wired smoke alarms), insulation, stairs, and electrical installations. We prepare and submit all Building Regulations documentation and work with an approved inspector or local authority building control to secure sign-off.

Question 19

Can I use my loft conversion as a bedroom?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and this is the most popular use. To be classified as a habitable room, a loft conversion must meet Building Regulations requirements for structural stability, fire escape (typically a protected staircase and fire-rated doors throughout), minimum floor area and headroom, natural light, and ventilation. We design loft conversions to comply fully with all habitable room requirements.

Question 20

Can I convert my loft if I live in a flat?

Accepted Answer

If you own the top-floor flat in a building, loft conversion is sometimes possible but involves significant additional complexity. You would typically need to own the freehold (or have lease provisions that include the roof space), obtain planning permission, comply with Building Regulations, and ensure any Party Wall obligations to the flat below are met. We can advise on feasibility and the correct legal steps.

Question 21

Do I need planning permission for a basement extension in London?

Accepted Answer

In most London boroughs, a straightforward basement extension (without external excavation that changes the garden level or creates a new light well) can be carried out under Permitted Development, though a Lawful Development Certificate is strongly recommended. However, many London boroughs — particularly Kensington & Chelsea, Westminster, Camden, and Hammersmith & Fulham — have introduced specific basement development policies following local concern about construction impact. In these areas, planning permission is almost always required.

Question 22

What surveys do I need before a basement extension?

Accepted Answer

A basement project requires several specialist surveys before design can begin: a structural survey (to assess existing foundations and ground conditions); a ground investigation or trial pit (to determine soil type and groundwater levels); a drainage survey (to understand existing drainage routes that may be affected); and sometimes a flood risk assessment (required in flood-risk zones). In conservation areas, a heritage assessment may also be needed. We coordinate all survey requirements and can recommend experienced specialist consultants.

Question 23

How long does a basement extension take to build?

Accepted Answer

A typical single-room basement extension takes 4–6 months to construct once planning and structural approvals are in place. The construction process involves significant temporary works (underpinning, waterproofing tanking, structural frames), which require careful management. Larger or more complex schemes can take 9–12 months. We provide detailed programme information as part of our project management service.

Question 24

What is the Party Wall position for a basement extension?

Accepted Answer

Basement excavations almost always trigger the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, particularly Section 6, which covers excavation within 3 or 6 metres of an adjoining owner's foundations (depending on depth). You must serve Party Wall Notices on all affected neighbours before excavation begins. We strongly recommend appointing an experienced Party Wall surveyor alongside your architect at the earliest stage of a basement project.

Question 25

Can I build a new house in a London garden?

Accepted Answer

Possibly — this is known as garden plot or 'backland' development. Whether it is feasible depends on the size of the plot, access, the council's Local Plan policies on backland development, parking requirements, impact on neighbouring amenity, and flood risk. Some London boroughs are supportive of backland housing as a way of increasing supply; others resist it strongly. We carry out a planning feasibility assessment to tell you honestly whether a plot has development potential before you commit to design costs.

Question 26

What is a self-build new home?

Accepted Answer

A self-build home is one where the individual client directly manages and commissions the design, planning, and construction of their home on land they own or have acquired. Self-builds are generally exempt from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) if the home will be your main residence, which can represent a significant saving. Shorplans has experience guiding clients through the complete self-build process, from site appraisal and planning through to Building Regulations sign-off.

Question 27

What are the planning policies for new residential development in London?

Accepted Answer

All new residential development in London must comply with the borough's Local Plan and the Mayor's London Plan. Key requirements include: minimum internal space standards (the Nationally Described Space Standard), accessible and adaptable homes standard (M4(2) in most London boroughs), sustainable drainage, cycle storage, and in many cases affordable housing contributions and CIL payments. We design new homes to meet these requirements from the outset, avoiding costly redesigns at planning stage.

Question 28

What is the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)?

Accepted Answer

The Community Infrastructure Levy is a charge that London boroughs and the Mayor of London levy on new floor space created by development. For new residential development, it can be a significant cost — rates vary by borough and location within it. Self-build homes, charitable uses, and some affordable housing are exempt. We always check CIL liability as part of the feasibility assessment for new-build projects, as it directly affects development viability.

Question 29

How much does an architect cost for a house extension in London?

Accepted Answer

Architect fees for a householder extension in London typically range from 8%–15% of the total build cost, depending on the complexity of the project and the level of service required. For a straightforward single-storey rear extension, you might expect to pay £2,500–£5,000 for architectural drawings and planning; for a more complex scheme including Building Regulations drawings and construction support, fees of £6,000–£15,000+ are typical. We provide a clear, itemised fee proposal at the outset — no hidden costs.

Question 30

How much does a planning application cost in London?

Accepted Answer

From December 2023, the government-set planning application fees increased significantly. For householder applications (extensions, loft conversions, etc.) the fee is £258 (single dwelling). For a new dwellinghouse, the fee is £578. These are the council's fees, paid directly to the planning authority. In addition to the council fee, you will pay professional fees for preparing and submitting the application — this is included in Shorplans' standard design service.

Question 31

How much does a loft conversion cost in London in 2024/2025?

Accepted Answer

The build cost for a loft conversion in London varies depending on the type and specification. As a guide: Velux/rooflight conversions typically cost £25,000–£45,000; dormer conversions £40,000–£70,000; mansard conversions £60,000–£100,000+; and L-shaped dormers £50,000–£80,000. These are build costs only — architect fees, structural engineer fees, Party Wall costs, and VAT are additional. We can provide a realistic budget estimate once the scope of your project is defined.

Question 32

How much does a rear extension cost in London in 2024/2025?

Accepted Answer

A single-storey rear extension in London typically costs £1,800–£2,500 per square metre to build. A 20m² extension might therefore cost £36,000–£50,000 in construction costs alone, before architect fees, planning costs, and VAT. Double-storey extensions cost more in structural complexity but offer much better value per square metre of space created. We provide detailed cost guidance once the design is developed.

Question 33

Is VAT payable on building work?

Accepted Answer

Most building work is subject to VAT at 20%. However, there are important exceptions: converting a non-residential building to residential use is zero-rated; building a new dwelling from scratch is zero-rated; and certain works to listed buildings or buildings that have been empty for 2+ years may be eligible for a reduced 5% rate. We advise on VAT eligibility as part of our project briefing process.

Question 34

Do I need a structural engineer and how much does that cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most extensions, loft conversions, and basement projects require structural engineering input to design beams, foundations, and structural connections and to produce calculations that Building Control will check. Structural engineer fees typically range from £800–£3,000 for straightforward projects, up to £5,000–£10,000+ for complex basement or new-build schemes. Shorplans works with a network of experienced structural engineers and coordinates all consultant appointments on your behalf.

Question 35

Should I get quotes from contractors before or after I have planning permission?

Accepted Answer

We recommend obtaining indicative contractor quotes (tender pricing) once you have planning permission and a complete set of Building Regulations drawings, so contractors are pricing the same scheme. Tendering before planning can be unreliable as the scheme may change. However, for budget purposes, we always provide early-stage cost estimates based on our experience of typical London build costs so you can assess viability before committing to design fees.

Question 36

How long does the planning process take in London?

Accepted Answer

Most householder planning applications (extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings) are determined within 8 weeks of validation. More complex applications can be extended by agreement to 13 weeks. Pre-application advice typically takes 4–8 weeks to receive. If you need to appeal a refusal to the Planning Inspectorate, the written representations process takes 4–6 months. We manage your application timeline and flag any issues that may cause delay.

Question 37

How long does it take from initial consultation to starting on site?

Accepted Answer

From first consultation to being ready to start construction is typically 4–9 months for a straightforward extension or loft conversion: initial design and surveys (4–6 weeks); planning application preparation and submission (4–6 weeks); planning determination (8 weeks); Building Regulations drawings and approval (4–6 weeks); tender and contractor appointment (4–6 weeks). We work to your timeline and can advise on how to compress the programme where needed.

Question 38

How long does a rear extension take to build?

Accepted Answer

Once contractors are on site, a single-storey rear extension typically takes 8–14 weeks to construct to a watertight stage, and a further 4–8 weeks for internal fit-out. A double-storey rear extension may take 16–24 weeks. Factors affecting programme include the complexity of the scheme, the existing structure, ground conditions, and weather. We advise on realistic construction timelines during the design stage.

Question 39

How long does it take to get Building Regulations approval?

Accepted Answer

A Building Regulations Full Plans application is typically checked and approved by the local authority or approved inspector within 5 weeks of submission. However, approval is conditional on the works being inspected at key stages during construction. We prepare and submit Building Regulations drawings as a standard part of our service and manage all correspondence with Building Control.

Question 40

What is the difference between planning permission and Building Regulations?

Accepted Answer

Planning permission is the legal consent from the council that controls whether a development can take place at all — it considers issues of appearance, impact on neighbours, and policy compliance. Building Regulations are a separate set of technical standards that control how a building is constructed — covering structure, fire safety, energy efficiency, ventilation, drainage, and accessibility. Both are almost always required for an extension or loft conversion. They are assessed separately and often by different teams within the council.

Question 41

Do I need Building Regulations for an extension under Permitted Development?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Building Regulations approval is required for virtually all extensions (and loft conversions), regardless of whether planning permission is needed. The only common exception is a small detached garage or outbuilding under 15m². We prepare and submit Building Regulations Full Plans as part of our standard construction drawing service, coordinating with the building inspector throughout the build.

Question 42

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An EPC rates the energy efficiency of a building on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). For new dwellings or conversions creating a new home, an EPC is required before the property can be sold or let. Building Regulations now require new homes and extensions to meet minimum energy performance standards under Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power). We design to meet or exceed these standards and can recommend accredited energy assessors.

Question 43

What is a completion certificate and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

A completion certificate (or 'final certificate' from an approved inspector) is issued by Building Control once they have confirmed that the completed works comply with Building Regulations. This document is essential when you come to sell or remortgage your property — conveyancing solicitors always ask for it. We coordinate with Building Control to ensure all inspections are carried out and the certificate is issued at the end of your project.

Question 44

What is a conservation area and how does it affect my project?

Accepted Answer

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest designated by the local planning authority. In London, there are over 1,000 conservation areas. Living in one means: many Permitted Development rights are removed or restricted (in particular, you cannot clad the exterior of your house or add a satellite dish without consent); any extension or alteration must preserve or enhance the character of the area; demolition of buildings and structures requires separate consent; and the council's design team will scrutinise any application carefully.

Question 45

Can I extend my house in a conservation area?

Accepted Answer

Yes — extensions in conservation areas are possible and are approved regularly. The key is that the design must 'preserve or enhance' the character and appearance of the conservation area. This typically means using sympathetic materials, respecting the scale and form of the existing building and streetscape, and avoiding designs that would harm important views or the historic setting. Pre-application advice from the council is particularly valuable in conservation areas. Shorplans has extensive experience preparing successful applications in London's conservation areas.

Question 46

What is a listed building and what does it mean for works I want to do?

Accepted Answer

A listed building is one that is on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest, maintained by Historic England. In London, there are more than 20,000 listed buildings. Works that alter the character of a listed building — both externally and internally — require Listed Building Consent in addition to any planning permission. This includes seemingly minor works like replacing windows, removing internal walls, or changing fireplaces. Unauthorised works to a listed building are a criminal offence. We prepare Listed Building Consent applications and can recommend specialist heritage consultants where needed.

Question 47

What is Article 4 Direction and which London boroughs have them?

Accepted Answer

An Article 4 Direction is an instruction from the council that removes specified Permitted Development rights in a defined area. They are very common in London conservation areas. For example, an Article 4 Direction on a terrace of Victorian houses might mean you need planning permission to replace windows, change front doors, add cladding, or build even a small rear extension. The boroughs with the most extensive Article 4 Directions in residential areas include Camden, Islington, Kensington & Chelsea, Westminster, Hackney, and Hammersmith & Fulham. We always check whether an Article 4 Direction applies before advising on planning routes.

Question 48

Can I demolish a building in a conservation area?

Accepted Answer

Demolishing a building in a conservation area requires Conservation Area Consent (now folded into planning permission). The council will only grant consent to demolish if there is a compelling justification — typically that the building makes no positive contribution to the conservation area's character and a suitable replacement scheme is proposed. Demolition of listed buildings requires Listed Building Consent and is very rarely permitted.

Question 49

What does RIBA Chartered Practice mean?

Accepted Answer

RIBA stands for the Royal Institute of British Architects — the UK's professional body for architects. A RIBA Chartered Practice is an architectural practice that has been assessed against quality management standards and is signed up to the RIBA Code of Professional Conduct. Choosing a RIBA Chartered Practice means you benefit from professional indemnity insurance, clear client agreements, and the reassurance that the practice meets rigorous standards of professional conduct. Shorplans Developments is a RIBA Chartered Practice.

Question 50

What does ARB registered mean?

Accepted Answer

The Architects Registration Board (ARB) is the statutory regulator for architects in the UK. Only individuals registered with the ARB can legally call themselves an 'architect' in the UK. Registration requires a recognised architectural qualification and evidence of professional competence. Shorplans' lead architect is ARB registered (No. 089055C). You can verify any architect's registration on the ARB public register at arb.org.uk.

Question 51

Where is Shorplans Developments based and what areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

Shorplans Developments is based at 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JQ. We cover all 32 London boroughs and the City of London, as well as key London neighbourhoods including Notting Hill, Chelsea, Canary Wharf, Shoreditch, Brixton, Clapham, Wimbledon, Putney, Chiswick, Hampstead, Highgate, and Mayfair. See our areas page for the full list.

Question 52

What services does Shorplans Developments offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a comprehensive architectural and planning service for residential clients across London: architectural design (concept through to construction), planning applications, Permitted Development assessments and LDC applications, Prior Approval applications, Listed Building and Conservation Area applications, Building Regulations drawings and submissions, feasibility studies, planning appeals, and project management. We work on extensions, loft conversions, basement schemes, new-build dwellings, and conversions.

Question 53

How do I get a quote from Shorplans?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is to fill out our online Get A Quote form — it takes about 3 minutes and helps us understand your project so we can provide an accurate fee proposal. Alternatively, call us on +44 20 4513 2191 or email hello@shorplans.com. We aim to respond within one working day and will arrange a free initial consultation — in person at our Covent Garden studio or by video call — to discuss your project in detail.

Question 54

Can you help me if I've already had a planning refusal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly help clients who have had a previous application refused — either by redesigning the scheme to address the reasons for refusal and resubmitting, or by preparing and managing a planning appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. We'll review the decision notice, assess the chances of a successful appeal vs. resubmission, and advise honestly on the best course of action. Contact us to discuss your situation.

Question 55

Do you offer planning advice without a full architectural commission?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer standalone planning feasibility assessments and pre-application advice meetings for clients who want to understand their property's development potential before committing to a full architectural service. This is a cost-effective way to explore what's achievable before making design investment decisions. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Question 56

What is BIM (Building Information Modelling)?

Accepted Answer

BIM, or Building Information Modelling, is an intelligent, data-rich 3D modelling process used to design, coordinate and manage building projects. Rather than just drawing lines, a BIM model holds real information about every element — geometry, materials, dimensions, structural data and specifications — in a single coordinated source of truth. This means fewer errors, better coordination between architectural, structural and services design, and clearer communication with everyone involved. We work to BIM Level 2 (PAS 1192) standards. You can read more on our dedicated BIM Services page.

Question 57

Do I need a BIM model for a residential project?

Accepted Answer

Not every small residential project requires a full BIM model, but it brings real benefits even on extensions and loft conversions — particularly accurate coordination, clash detection and reliable scheduling. BIM is most valuable on larger, more complex, or multi-discipline projects where coordination between architecture, structure and services is critical. We'll advise on the right level of detail for your specific project so you only pay for what adds value.

Question 58

What is a point cloud survey?

Accepted Answer

A point cloud survey uses 3D laser scanning (LiDAR) to capture millions of measured points of an existing building or site, creating a millimetre-accurate digital record. This 'point cloud' becomes a precise digital twin of the property that we can use to produce accurate floor plans, sections and elevations, and to build a reliable BIM model. It eliminates the measurement errors common with traditional hand surveys and removes the need for repeat site visits.

Question 59

How accurate is a 3D laser scan survey?

Accepted Answer

3D laser scanning is extremely accurate, typically capturing measurements to within a few millimetres. Because the scanner records millions of data points of the actual building, the resulting survey reflects real-world conditions far more precisely than traditional tape or disto measurements. This accuracy is invaluable for tight London sites, period properties with irregular geometry, and projects where existing conditions must align perfectly with the new design.

Question 60

What is scan-to-BIM?

Accepted Answer

Scan-to-BIM is the process of converting a point cloud survey into an intelligent BIM model. After laser-scanning the existing building, our team models the walls, floors, structure and services from the scan data to your required level of detail. The result is an accurate, data-rich model of the existing property that forms a reliable foundation for design, planning drawings and construction.

Question 61

What is the difference between a 3D model and a BIM model?

Accepted Answer

A 3D model is primarily a visual representation — it shows what a building looks like, and is great for visualisation, massing studies and presenting designs to planners and clients. A BIM model goes further: it is a 3D model embedded with structured data about every element (materials, dimensions, specifications, schedules), enabling coordination, clash detection and accurate quantities. In short, all BIM models are 3D, but not all 3D models are BIM.

Question 62

Can you provide 3D visualisations and walkthroughs of my project?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We produce photorealistic 3D renders and immersive walkthroughs that bring your project to life before construction begins. From early massing studies that test what your site can accommodate, to detailed interior and exterior visuals, our 3D visualisation helps you make confident design decisions and present a compelling case to planners and stakeholders.

Question 63

What file formats do you deliver BIM and 3D models in?

Accepted Answer

We deliver in industry-standard formats depending on your needs, including IFC (the open BIM exchange format), native model files (such as RVT), and standard CAD and PDF outputs for drawings. If you're working with other consultants or a contractor, let us know their requirements and we'll provide files in a compatible format for smooth coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Basement Extensions

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BIM, 3D & Surveys

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