Business Details
12 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architects in North Shields
Established in 2014, Acre Design has evolved from a bedroom startup into one of the North East's leading residential architectural practices. Our journey began with Alistair Crerar's decade-long experience in building control, which equipped us with unparalleled technical expertise and problem-solving capabilities. We specialise in transforming homes through meticulously designed extensions, refurbishments, and loft conversions, serving Newcastle, Northumberland, and North Tyneside. Our concept-to-completion service ensures every project is executed with precision, from initial planning advice to on-site construction support.With over 1,000 completed projects, we combine creativity with technical accuracy, producing clear architectural drawings that prevent costly surprises. Our unique Needs and Options Review process empowers clients with multiple design options and cost estimates before committing to full design fees. Backed by a dedicated team and structured standard operating procedures, we deliver stress-free home transformations that enhance both functionality and value.
Services
Home extensions
Loft conversions
Refurbishments
Planning permission
Technical drawings
Tender administration
Construction management
3D visualisations
Conservation area projects
Self-build homes
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- Award-winning residential architecture studio with 10+ years' experience
- Transparent, upfront pricing with free initial consultations
- Effortless project delivery from planning to construction
- Proven track record with over 1,000 completed projects
- 10 years' on-site building control expertise informs practical designs
What people say
Fantastic experience
Passionate team
Smooth and stress-free
Amazing ideas
Highly recommend
Services
Home extensions
We design light-filled, open-plan extensions that enhance family living spaces. Our architectural experts manage every stage from planning permissions to construction documentation, ensuring seamless integration with existing properties. Serving Newcastle, Northumberland, and North Tyneside, we deliver bespoke solutions that maximise both functionality and aesthetic appeal while maintaining strict budget controls.
Loft conversions
Specialising in converting unused loft spaces into modern living areas, we provide comprehensive design and project management services. Our team creates detailed 3D models and technical drawings to ensure planning compliance and buildability. With expertise in dormer additions and conservation area developments, we transform attic spaces into valuable extensions of living accommodation.
Refurbishments
We offer complete refurbishment solutions for modernising existing properties, from kitchen renovations to full-house remodelling. Our process includes heritage home upgrades and conservation area developments, combining traditional elements with contemporary design. With accurate cost estimations and clear timelines, we ensure minimal disruption during transformation projects.
Planning permission
Our experts handle all aspects of planning applications, including conservation area developments and heritage property modifications. We produce detailed architectural drawings and 3D visualisations to support submissions, working closely with local authorities to secure approvals while maintaining design integrity and compliance with building regulations.
3D visualisations
We create lifelike 3D images and explainer videos to help clients visualise their completed projects before construction begins. These visual tools enable informed decision-making, allowing clients to explore different design options and understand spatial relationships within their proposed home transformations.
People
Alistair Crerar
Founder & Architectural Designer
With 10 years' experience in building control and a decade in residential architecture, Alistair founded Acre Design in 2014. He specialises in creating buildable designs that prevent construction issues, combining technical expertise with creative vision to deliver practical home transformations.
Rebecca
Practise Manager
Rebecca oversees project timelines and client communications, ensuring adherence to Acre Design's five-step process. With expertise in standard operating procedures, she maintains organisational efficiency while coordinating the architectural team's creative output for consistent, high-quality service delivery.
Questions
What residential architectural services do you offer?
We specialise in home extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, and self-build projects across Newcastle, Northumberland, and North Tyneside, providing end-to-end services from concept design to construction management.
How does your design process work?
Our five-step process begins with a free Needs and Options Review, followed by concept design, technical drawings, tender administration, and construction support, ensuring clear milestones and transparent costs throughout.
Do you handle planning permission applications?
Yes, we manage complete planning applications including heritage property modifications and conservation area developments, supported by detailed architectural drawings and 3D visualisations to secure approvals.
Can you assist with construction management?
We offer full construction management services, including contractor coordination, site visits, and contract administration to ensure quality control, budget adherence, and timely project completion.
How do you ensure accurate cost estimates?
Our clear technical drawings enable precise contractor quotations, while our Needs and Options Review provides multiple design-cost scenarios before committing to full design fees, preventing budget overruns.
What areas do you serve?
We operate across Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, and Northumberland, with particular expertise in urban extensions, countryside loft conversions, and conservation area developments.
