Business Details
25 Years
experience
Expert Architects in Derby & Surrey | Making Plans Architecture
Established in 2001, Making Plans Architecture is a family-run architectural practice with over two decades of experience serving private homeowners and businesses across Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Surrey, and surrounding areas. Our approach combines technical expertise with a personal touch, offering services from initial consultation and 3D visualisations to project management and builder selection. With a team boasting over 30 years of combined construction sector experience, including recognition in LABC Building Excellence Awards, we prioritise client collaboration and attention to detail.Our services are tailored to individual needs, covering extensions, new builds, conversions, and full renovations. We maintain strong relationships with local builders and provide transparent cost estimates, ensuring projects meet both budgetary and quality expectations. Our commitment to sustainable design and use of CGI visualisation technology helps clients fully realise their vision. As a RIBA Chartered practice, we uphold the highest professional standards while maintaining the flexibility of a small business ethos.
Services
Architectural Design
Project Management
Planning Applications
3D Visualisations
Building Control
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- 21 years of architectural expertise with family-run personal service
- End-to-end project management from consultation to completion
- Tailored solutions for extensions, new builds, and full renovations
- RIBA Chartered practice with award-winning design capabilities
- Transparent cost estimates and strong relationships with local builders
Associations and certifications
- LABC Building Excellence Awards
- RIBA Chartered Practice
What people say
Excellent service
Professional manner
Impressed with results
Personal touch
Award-winning designs
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates tailored solutions for residential and commercial properties. We specialise in extensions, new builds, and renovations, combining technical expertise with creative vision. Our team works closely with clients to develop concepts that meet both functional requirements and aesthetic preferences, ensuring each project reflects the client's unique needs while maintaining compliance with planning regulations.
Project Management
We offer comprehensive project management from initial concept to final completion. Our service includes coordinating with builders, monitoring progress, and ensuring adherence to budgets and timelines. With experienced professionals overseeing every detail, clients benefit from seamless execution and quality control throughout the construction process, minimising stress and ensuring successful outcomes.
Planning Applications
Our planning application service handles all aspects of the submission process to local authorities. We prepare detailed drawings, supporting documentation, and manage consultations with planning departments. With in-depth knowledge of current regulations, we maximise approval chances while addressing potential issues proactively, ensuring smooth progression through the planning system for residential and commercial developments.
3D Visualisations
We create photorealistic 3D visualisations and CGI renderings to help clients visualise their projects before construction begins. This service transforms technical drawings into lifelike images, enabling better decision-making and clearer communication of design intent. Our visualisation tools help identify potential improvements early in the process, ensuring the final outcome matches client expectations.
Building Control
Our building control service ensures all projects meet current construction regulations and safety standards. We prepare detailed technical drawings, submit applications to local authorities, and coordinate inspections throughout the build process. With expert knowledge of building regulations, we guide clients through compliance requirements while maintaining design integrity and construction quality.
People
Matt King
Managing Director
With 35 years' experience in construction, Matt founded Making Plans in 2001. He specialises in transforming client visions into award-winning architectural solutions, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving. His work has featured on Homes Under the Hammer.
Laverne King
Commercial Director
Laverne has managed supplier negotiations and business operations since 2015. She implements process improvements to ensure efficient service delivery while maintaining the company's family business ethos and client-focused approach.
Andy King
Associate Director
Andy leads our Surrey practice with 20 years' experience in project management and strategic development. Bringing expertise from London's property sector, he oversees operations while maintaining high service standards across all projects.
Kathryn Banton
Practice Manager
Kathryn has ensured smooth office operations since 2011. She coordinates client interactions and supports the team throughout project lifecycles, maintaining the seamless experience that clients expect from our family-run business.
Mark Pringle
Architectural Technician
Mark provides technical expertise with 30 years' construction experience. He conducts measured surveys and handles technical details, ensuring accurate drawings that translate design concepts into buildable solutions.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including design, planning applications, building control, 3D visualisations, project management, and builder selection for residential and commercial projects.
Do you work outside Derbyshire?
Yes, we operate throughout Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Surrey, and surrounding areas, with dedicated offices in both Derby and Surrey locations.
How experienced is your team?
Our team has over 30 years' combined experience in construction and architecture, including RIBA Chartered architects and award-winning professionals with industry recognition.
Can you help with planning permission?
Yes, we handle complete planning applications including drawings, documentation, and local authority submissions, with proven success in securing approvals for complex projects.
What about project management?
We offer comprehensive project management covering builder selection, budget control, timeline coordination, and quality assurance throughout the construction process.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide a free one-hour consultation at your property or office to discuss your project requirements and explain our services in detail.
