Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Design Partner in Portsmouth
Established in 1999, Thorns Young has built a reputation for excellence in domestic architectural design and building surveying. Our team combines over 50 years of collective experience with a client-centric approach, working closely with homeowners, local authorities, and contractors to deliver tailored solutions. Specialising in planning applications, building regulations compliance, and structural calculations, we leverage long-standing partnerships with Portsmouth and Fareham Local Authorities to streamline approvals.Our in-house expertise spans residential and commercial projects, including extensions, loft conversions, and new builds. Recognised for technical precision and innovative design, we prioritise transparency, offering free consultations and fixed-cost quotations. With a dedicated team of certified professionals, we ensure projects meet regulatory standards while aligning with client aspirations.
Services
Extensions
Loft Conversions
Structural Calculations
Planning Applications
Building Regulations
New Builds
Basement Conversions
Garage Conversions
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of combined experience in architectural design and building surveying.
- Our team conducts structural calculations in-house for all project sizes.
- We maintain a dedicated partnership with local authorities for expedited approvals.
- Free initial consultations provide transparent costings and project timelines.
- Client testimonials highlight our professionalism and attention to detail.
Associations and certifications
- LABC Partner Authority Scheme
What people say
Great service
Prompt and professional
Highly recommend
Competitive pricing
Seamless application process
Services
Planning Applications
We act as your agent during the planning stage, liaising with local authorities to secure approvals. Our expertise in local regulations and established relationships with planning officers ensure efficient submissions. Clients receive guidance on feasibility, costs, and timelines during free consultations.
Building Regulations
All designs meet current building regulations, with submissions managed directly by our team. We collaborate with local authorities to ensure compliance, providing detailed documentation and technical support throughout the approval process for residential and commercial projects.
Structural Calculations
Our in-house structural calculations cover projects of all scales, from minor renovations to complex conversions. This service ensures safety and compliance while supporting innovative design solutions tailored to client requirements and site-specific challenges.
Extensions
We design and manage residential and commercial extensions, handling planning, regulations, and technical drawings. Our approach balances aesthetic appeal with functional improvements, ensuring seamless integration with existing structures and local authority compliance.
Loft Conversions
Transform unused loft space into functional areas with our end-to-end conversion service. We handle planning permissions, structural assessments, and building regulation approvals, delivering cost-effective solutions that maximise property value and living space.
People
Brian Thorns
Director & Building Surveyor
A Building Surveyor and Architectural Designer with expertise in resolving complex structural challenges. Brian combines technical precision with innovative design to deliver durable solutions, drawing on decades of hands-on construction experience.
Chris Curnow
Director
With 40 years of on-site construction experience, Chris specialises in practical problem-solving for complex architectural challenges. His field expertise ensures realistic, buildable designs that align with client needs and regulatory requirements.
Rebecca Nash
Director & Architectural Technician
A Revit-certified Director with over 15 years at the company, Rebecca oversees technical design and project management. Her progression to leadership reflects her commitment to precision and client-focused architectural solutions.
Conner Mallen
Architectural Technician
A Revit-trained technician with seven years of experience, Conner specialises in planning submissions and technical drawings. His expertise in navigating planning hurdles ensures efficient project progression from concept to approval.
Jan Ancell
Receptionist & Company Secretary
Jan manages office operations and finance, serving as the company's first point of contact. Her organisational skills and long-standing role ensure smooth administrative support for both clients and the team.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in domestic and commercial projects including extensions, loft conversions, new builds, and structural calculations, with expertise in planning and building regulations compliance.
Do you handle planning applications?
Yes, we act as your agent to submit planning applications and liaise with local authorities, leveraging partnerships to expedite approvals where applicable.
Are structural calculations included in your services?
Yes, we provide in-house structural calculations for all project types, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance without outsourcing.
Which areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Portsmouth, Chichester, and Fareham, with experience in local authority requirements across these regions.
What is your consultation process?
We offer free initial consultations to discuss project feasibility, costs, and timelines, followed by a measured survey if you proceed with our services.
How much do your services cost?
Costs vary by project scope; we provide tailored quotations during free consultations, ensuring transparency with no hidden fees.
Reviews (3)
Suzie Rickman
Apr 02, 2021
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Very professional and helpful throughout, Rebecca did our plans for extension and was amazing - good service. Thanks
Christopher Kirk
Mar 30, 2021
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We were very impressed by the service provided by Thorns-Young. Any alterations we requested were promptly carried out by Conner. Drawings were also promptly supplied to our builders.
Richard Thorpe
Mar 11, 2021
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Great architects. On hand to help you every step of the way. Would highly recommend.
Chris dealt with us and was very professional. Great service
Chris dealt with us and was very professional. Great service
