Business Details
Expert Urban Design & Architecture Services in Southampton
With over three decades of expertise in urban design, architecture, and planning, we deliver tailored solutions that balance client objectives with regulatory requirements. Our collaborative approach combines independent consultancy with partnerships across multidisciplinary teams, including leading firms like Savills and Quod. We specialise in translating complex proposals into clear, compelling visualisations through hand-drawn and watercolour illustrations, enhancing stakeholder understanding and engagement. Our national reach spans London, the South East, South West, and South Wales, with experience extending internationally. We prioritise context-sensitive masterplanning, feasibility assessments, and detailed design coding, supported by a network of specialists.Our track record includes high-profile projects such as the North Ashchurch Garden Communities masterplan and Green Belt developments. We serve strategic land promoters, housebuilders, public sector organisations, and private individuals, offering strategic guidance from initial concept to planning approval. Our director, Colin Richards, leverages 25+ years of experience in navigating planning processes and delivering design solutions that satisfy both clients and local authorities. We maintain transparency in our methodology and pricing, ensuring clients receive value-driven, ethically grounded consultancy services.
Services
Feasibility Studies
Detailed Design
Masterplanning
Public Engagement
Development Briefs
Design Coding
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in urban design and planning consultancy.
- Our team collaborates with leading multidisciplinary firms nationwide.
- We use hand-drawn illustrations to improve proposal understanding.
- We operate across the UK and internationally.
- Our director has 25+ years of planning process expertise.
Services
Feasibility Studies
We evaluate site constraints and opportunities to determine development potential. Our studies consider planning policies, environmental factors, and market demands. Clients receive actionable insights to inform strategic decisions.
Masterplanning
We create comprehensive spatial strategies that balance urban functionality with aesthetic quality. Our masterplans integrate infrastructure, green spaces, and community needs. Each proposal responds to local context and regulatory requirements.
Public Engagement
We design exhibitions, leaflets, and digital platforms to communicate proposals effectively. Our approach fosters stakeholder buy-in through transparent dialogue and accessible visual materials.
Design Coding
We produce detailed design guidelines that define architectural standards and spatial parameters. Our codes ensure cohesive development outcomes while maintaining flexibility for future implementation.
Hand-drawn Visualisation
We use traditional watercolour and hand-drawn techniques to present proposals. These visuals enhance understanding of spatial relationships and design intent compared to digital renderings.
People
Colin Richards
Director
Urban design expert with 25+ years of experience in planning and development. Specialises in negotiating complex planning applications through clear communication and strategic design solutions.
Questions
What areas do you operate in?
We work nationally across the UK, with particular focus on London, the South East, South West, and South Wales. We also undertake international projects.
What makes your approach unique?
We combine technical planning expertise with hand-drawn visualisations that help stakeholders better understand proposed developments compared to standard digital renderings.
Which sectors do you specialise in?
We work with residential developers, commercial clients, and public sector organisations on projects ranging from garden towns to listed building conversions.
How do you handle planning challenges?
We navigate complex planning processes by balancing client objectives with regulatory requirements, using our extensive experience in securing planning permissions.
Can you assist with listed building projects?
Yes, we have specific experience in preparing detailed planning applications for listed building conversions within Green Belt areas.
