Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any specific queries or want to know more, get in touch and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

  • Building work is a huge investment and it’s important to get it right the first time. Working with an Architect dramatically reduces the risks and can help to ensure you don’t waste money building something that doesn’t meet your aspirations

    It is possible to work directly with a builder or draftsperson to draw up some simple plans. But if you really want to create something special, then you’ll want to work with an architect.

    Architects are both creative and technically proficient, and we’re invested in both the process and the finished article. We enjoy the challenge of complex projects and sites and aim to make the process as fun and stress-free as possible.

    Whilst you may pay more in fees working with an architect, our clients all agree this is reflected in the value of our input.

    Sharpe Architecture is an RIBA Chartered Practice, which means we follow the Royal Institute of British Architects’ Code of Conduct.

  • We’re an RIBA chartered practice and we offer a full architectural design service. This includes everything from an initial feasibility study at the start to site monitoring and contract administration.

    In short, this means we can guide you through the whole process from concept to completion.

  • Each project of our projects is unique so our fees are different for every job.

    At the start of the process we meet you to discus the project in detail and from there we'll provide a fee proposal. We always aim to provide a fixed fee from the earliest opportunity so everyone is clear on the cost and scope.

    As a guide, our fees typically range 8-12% of the construction cost for a full service from start to finish, including site monitoring. We can offer fixed price packages for planning and/or building regulations drawings for a lower fee.

    Good architecture is more about how we can add value as well as mitigating any potential risk. In short good design should save you money.

  • Each project is different, but typically it takes a year from our initial meeting before you will be ready to start on site with a builder. We can also provide ideas about how to speed the process up if required.

    This programme allows for sufficient time to obtain planning permission, building regulations and find the right builder for the job.

    The aim is to have all the important decisions made in advance before you start the building work.

  • Each project is unique but our first stage is to carry out a feasibility study and look at what is achievable for your house, site and budget. At this stage we provide an outline indication of the overall project cost of each option.

    As of 2024, construction costs are typically between £3000-£4000/m2 for new construction. Refurbishments may be lower depending on how much of the existing structure we can keep.

    Where appropriate, we work with cost consultants to provide detailed costings for your project so there are no surprises at the tender stage.

  • Our office is in the heart of Tunbridge Wells and we like to work locally where possible. We generally cover the South-East of England, such as Kent, East Sussex and Surrey.

  • Most of our projects range between £150k - £1m but for us, the goal is to make all our projects the best they can be and that’s more important to us than size. We love working on all projects from unusual sites that require careful thought to dream home new builds.

  • "Sharpe Architecture rescued us"

    Sharpe Architecture rescued us when we were floundering with the renovation of our 3 bed 1930s semi in South East London. The property had been “improved” over the years with a number of features that made the dated layout even harder to work with for modern family life.

    Our budget was tight, and Frances and Simon were careful to ensure that we got the best, most liveable space that we could afford. The layout isn’t one we’d have maximised on our own, and their suggestions and guidance have been invaluable.

  • "We can’t speak highly enough of Sharpe Architecture"

    “They have exceeded every expectation we had, and the results speak for themselves. Frances has a lovely eye for design, and yes, all gone to plan with no major hiccups at all. Sharpe have been the dictionary definition of professional, responsive and their input has been enormously valuable from first concept proposal, to planning approval to now. I would strongly recommend having them administer your build contract. A cost we weren’t sure about, but having been (and lived in the house!) through it, it’s money very well spent. Indeed I’m sure their involvement will have saved us money overall.”

    - Ferndale House Client -

  • “Sharpe Architecture were fantastic throughout."

    “From inception to delivery, Frances and Simon helped us to realise what we set out to with the project, and they were always on hand to offer their advice and support.”

    - Stack House Client -

  • "We are so happy we approached Sharpe Architecture"

    “We are so happy we approached Sharpe Architecture for an extension project and would recommend their services to anyone. Frances was very attentive to all our needs, wants and every detail throughout the project. There were challenges, being in a conservation area but Frances put together excellent proposals and handled a successful planning application. The design is beautiful and far exceeded what we thought was possible. Professional. Talented. Brilliant

    -Batten House Client-

  • "A pleasure to work with and come very highly recommended"

    “We are thrilled with our new kitchen/diner snug, which is all thanks to Sharpe Architecture. Fran helped us at the building design stage, coming up with some excellent ideas to create clean lines and improve light in our north- facing space. She produced plans and a specification, helped us select our builder by reviewing quotes, arranged structural engineer input, obtained building regulation approval and provided an invaluable design brief on which we were able to build. She listened carefully to what we wanted and showed great flexibility and patience in the face of our lack of experience and indecision!”

    - Rusthall Remodel Client -

  • “Very happy with the work of Sharpe Architecture."

    Sharpe Architecture saw our project through from concept, detailed design, construction to completion. Built a good working relationship with the main builder but also pushed back when construction was not as planned or expected. Overall 10/10”

    - Wedge House Client -