New Build Design
Complete architectural design for new residential properties. From initial concept to construction-ready drawings.
Overview
Designing a new home from scratch is a rare opportunity to create a property that perfectly suits your lifestyle, family, and aspirations. Whether you're building on a plot in your garden, replacing an existing structure, or developing a new site, the architectural design phase sets the foundation for everything that follows. At QM Designs, we guide you through every step — from site analysis and concept sketches to detailed planning submissions and construction-ready building regulation drawings. We design homes that are functional, beautiful, energy-efficient, and buildable within your budget. Our experience covers single plots, replacement dwellings, backland development, and small multi-unit schemes. We understand the planning considerations unique to new builds, including design policies, density requirements, sustainability standards, and the importance of contextual design that respects the local character.
What's Included
- Site analysis & feasibility study
- Concept design & massing studies
- Full planning application drawings
- Design & Access Statement
- Building regulation drawings
- Landscape & site layout plans
- Structural engineer coordination
- Sustainability and energy strategy
Why Choose QM Designs
Your Dream Home
Unlike buying an existing property, a new build is designed around your life — your layout, your rooms, your specifications. No compromises.
Energy Efficient
New builds must meet the latest energy efficiency standards. We design homes that are warm, cheap to run, and future-ready with high insulation, efficient heating, and optional renewable energy integration.
Modern Building Standards
New construction benefits from the latest materials, techniques, and regulations — better sound insulation, fire safety, and structural performance than most existing housing stock.
Maximise Plot Potential
We analyse your plot to understand what the planning authority is likely to approve, then design to maximise the value and usability of the site.
End-to-End Service
From initial feasibility through to construction drawings, we provide a complete service. One point of contact, one consistent design vision throughout.
Our Process
Site survey, analysis & brief development
Concept design & client review — layouts, massing, appearance
Detailed design development with material selections
Planning submission with Design & Access Statement
Building regulation drawings & structural coordination
Construction details & specification documents
Builder-ready package delivered for tendering
Key Considerations
Planning Policy for New Builds
New build applications are assessed against local planning policies covering design quality, density, parking, amenity space, and character. Understanding your local authority's policies is essential — we review these before designing your home to maximise the chance of approval.
Replacement Dwellings
If you're demolishing an existing house and rebuilding, planning policies may restrict the size and position of the replacement. Some councils limit the footprint or volume increase. We navigate these policies to achieve the best result within the constraints.
Garden Plots & Backland Development
Building in the garden of an existing property (backland development) can be contentious. Key issues include access, overlooking, and whether the plot is considered "garden grabbing." We assess viability and design schemes that address these sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a new build project take from design to approval?
Design typically takes 4–8 weeks for the planning package. Planning determination adds 8–13 weeks. Building regulation approval adds another 2–4 weeks. Total from initial brief to build-ready: approximately 4–6 months. Construction adds another 6–12 months depending on the size and complexity.
Do I need an architect for a new build?
There's no legal requirement to use a registered architect. What matters is the quality and technical accuracy of the design and drawings. Our architectural designers have extensive experience in new build residential projects and produce drawings to the same professional standard.
How much does it cost to build a new house?
Build costs in 2026 typically range from £1,800–£3,000 per m² depending on location, specification, and complexity. A 150m² (4-bedroom) house might cost £270,000–£450,000 to build, excluding land, professional fees, and external works. We can advise on design choices that optimise your budget.
Can I build in my garden?
Potentially, yes. Key considerations include: whether the plot has independent access, whether it can accommodate parking, the impact on the existing house and neighbours, and local planning policies on garden development. We assess viability through a feasibility study before you commit to the design process.
What about sustainability and energy efficiency?
All new homes must meet Part L 2025 energy efficiency standards, which require high levels of insulation, airtightness, and efficient heating systems. We can also design to higher standards (Passivhaus, BREEAM) if you want to maximise energy performance and future-proof your home.
Do I need to commission a site survey?
Yes. You'll need a topographical survey (measuring levels and features) and we'd recommend a desktop study to identify ground conditions, flood risk, and contamination. Tree surveys may also be needed if there are significant trees on or near the plot. We can advise on which surveys you need.
What is a Design and Access Statement?
A Design and Access Statement is a document that explains the design approach, how it responds to the site and its context, and how the property will be accessed. It's a mandatory requirement for most new build planning applications and we prepare this as part of our service.
Can I project manage the build myself?
Yes, many clients choose to self-manage their new build project. Our construction-ready drawings give you everything you need to obtain quotes from builders, manage the build programme, and work with building control. We're also available for on-site support during construction.
Need New Build Design?
Get a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your project. We respond within 24 hours.