The McTernan Design Journey: Experience Architecture Differently
Changing Houses All Across Solihull and the West Midlands: An Immersive Design Experience.
We have reimagined the architectural process at McTernan Design to solve the challenges that homeowners in Solihull and the West Midlands have historically faced. No longer should you grapple with 2D plans. No more surprises during construction. No more guessing on the likelihood of planning approval with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council or Birmingham City Council. We embrace an immersive design process that empowers you to experience your new spaces virtually before a single wall is even built.
How We Differ From Other Architectural Services in Solihull & Birmingham
Virtual Reality Walkthroughs vs. Confusing Blueprints
With our cutting edge VR technology you can experience your new spaces at full scale. See your kitchen, feel the spaciousness of your open plan living area and understand how light will flow through your new extension before construction has even started. This technology has also been very helpful for our clients in Solihull's Tudor influenced suburbs and Birmingham's Victorian neighborhoods.
Understanding and Applying Local Planning Policies: Solihull vs. Industry Uncertainty
Our in-depth knowledge of certain local area planning policies such as Solihull’s House Extension Guidelines and Birmingham’s 45-Degree Code translates to high approval rates for Solihull extensions, Birmingham renovations, and Warwickshire conversions.
In-Home Presentations vs. Office Meetings
As opposed to traditional West Midlands architects who require you to visualize your home from flat drawings in their office, we bring the design experience to you. Using your TV, and D5 Render powered 3D technology with Oculus Quest headsets, we make your living room into a virtual showcase of your future home.
The Difference Between Face-to-Face Design Evolution and Email Exchanges
We believe that architectural design is a process that should be treated with the personal touch it deserves. Our method of working also includes face-to-face meetings where questions are answered on the spot, changes are made right away, and decisions are made with courage.
Journey Support: Complete, not Fragmented.
From concept to construction completion, we offer full time guidance through all the stages to close the gap between design, planning and building.
The McTernan Design Journey: Our Architectural Process
Changing Houses All Across Solihull and The West Midlands With Immersive Design
We have developed a comprehensive staged architectural process at McTernan Design that will guide clients from the initial concept through to the completion of the construction. We have a methodology that combines exceptional client communication with technical precision to create a smooth journey that eliminates uncertainty and delivers outstanding results for homeowners in Solihull, Birmingham, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.
The innovative process has transformed homes in Knowle, Dorridge, Solihull Town Centre, Edgbaston and the region. Each stage is structured to provide clarity and exceptional results while also ensuring collaboration.
Stage 1: Free Initial Consultation
The foundation of success is set
First, we start with a no-obligation discussion to thoroughly review your requirements, your aspirations, your budget constraints, and your timeline expectations. It is an important first step that provides a solid foundation of mutual understanding and technical information to enable us to understand your vision, and to identify potential planning considerations particular to your property and to your location in the West Midlands.
What we deliver:
A systematic approach to establishing required services and an estimate of the space that will be required.
An initial assessment of the planning feasibility specific to your area e.g. whether it is in Dorridge's leafy suburbs or Birmingham's conservation areas.
The possible design challenges and opportunities that may exist.
An explanation of what to expect at each stage of the process and what our process entails.
Preliminary assessment of sustainability considerations.
When you'll invest: This initial consultation is completely free with no obligation. Investment is only made at Stage 3 if you decide to proceed.
How to prepare:
Collect any plans or drawings you have of your property
Write down all the problems you have with your current space
Determine your key concerns and requirements for your project.
Consider your budget and time frame for the project.
If relevant, write down any questions you have regarding the planning restrictions in your area.
Consider how your space needs might change in the future.
This helps the McTernan Design understand what you really need and what’s important, making it easier to avoid surprises later. It also gives you a clear roadmap for your project and helps ensure the design concepts include your essential needs.
Stage 2: Architectural Fee Quote
Milestone based, transparent pricing
After our consultation, we offer a clear price proposal for the service as a fixed price and the payment is made in stages depending on the project milestones. This is because we have a structured way of charging our clients so that they know what they are paying for and how payment is linked to the various outputs of the architectural process.
What we deliver:
Customised to your project specific, break down of the work to be done.
A price guarantee - no more financial guessing.
An Architectural service package options (Foundation, Comprehensive or Ultimate).
A milestone based payment schedule that is in sync with the various stages of the project.
No hidden costs and no surprise fees.
Some examples of value added services that we can offer.
A clear and straightforward contract.
When you'll invest: There is no charge for the fee quote. We begin paying when you actually retain our services and move to Stage 3.
How to prepare:
Take a look at your budget limits. Explore the ways you can finance your expenses.
Think about which service package matches your requirements the best.
Lets gather some queries regarding services and outcomes.
Consider any services you may need.
Stage 3: Site Survey & Analysis
A accurate foundation for design to be created
This is where our comprehensive measured survey that captures very precise dimensions and structural details of your existing property, helps in providing an accurate baseline for design development. We document current conditions, constrain and assess your site and building to identify constraints and assess opportunities.
What we deliver:
Full dimensional survey of your property
Structural assessment of the key load-bearing elements
Mapping of site constraints, including planning restrictions.
Photographic documentation of the site for use in the design stage.
Assessment of environmental factors (light, views, privacy).
Assessment of utility services.
Analysis of the neighbourhood context.
When you invest: This stage usually calls for an investment of between £400 and £600, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
How to prepare:
Provide access to all areas of your property
Please provide any drawings or surveys you already have on hand.
Please highlight any existing problems such, as dampness or structural issues.
Identify property boundaries if unclear
Clear areas where measurements are needed
Please share any needs or factors to keep in mind.
Stage 4: Concept Design
Bringing your vision to life
We come up with initial design concepts that meet your brief and site conditions and which we further develop to explore a number of possibilities that would meet your aesthetic needs as well as your practical needs. These concepts present possible layout options that will help to bring in maximum light, space and functionality within your budget.
What we deliver:
Various layout plans with comparison.
The overall space planning for light and easy flow with good functionality.
Explanation of the design rationale that links the solutions to your brief.
Some initial thoughts about the materials suitable for your area.
Massing studies showing volume and form
Light and shadow analysis throughout the day and seasons
Exploration of the relationship between the internal and external areas.
Preliminary sustainability strategy integration
How to prepare:
Collect images of designs you like (and dislike)
Think about how various family members utilise spaces.
Consider how your requirements could evolve over time.
Think about your lifestyle and how environments should cater to it.
What are the essential requirements that cannot be compromised on?
Timeframe: Usually it takes around 3 to 5 weeks to complete projects. There is some leeway for tasks.
Stage 5: 3D Visualization & Immersive Design Meeting
See your space before you build it.
We don’t do it by the email or by looking at confusing 2D plans. We do design presentations in your home, connecting our laptop to your TV and providing VR headsets that you can use to walk through your proposed spaces visually before they are even built. This approach has no sense in traditional architectural presentations, but it helps you to make the right decisions.
What we deliver:
3D photorealistic renderings of both exterior and interior spaces.
Virtual walkthroughs using Oculus Quest headsets.
Material selection visualization of finish options.
Simulation of different lighting conditions at different times of day.
3D architectural visualization YouTube video to share with family.
Real-time design changes during meetings.
Spatial confirmation to check for full understanding of proportions.
Collaborative with all stakeholders
How to prepare:
Plan for all decision-makers to be present
Prepare specific questions about new layouts
Determine which areas you are most uncertain about.
The immersive design meeting should take about 2 hours on average.
You may also want to think about the possible material and finish of the product.
Stage 6: Planning Application & Management
Ensuring compliance with local authority requirements with confidence
We produce all the drawings and other support documents required, coordinate the application process, deal with the planning officers and other stakeholders and follow up the application until it is determined. This is because we have in-depth understanding of the prevailing planning policies in Solihull, Birmingham and Warwickshire which will help you to achieve your design goals without compromising on the project’s legality.
What we deliver:
What we deliver:
We prepare the full application with all necessary documents
Supporting design statements appropriate to local planning priorities
We use our established relationships with local planning officers
Application tracking and proactive management
If needed, stakeholder management
Strategic negotiation with local planning authorities
Supporting statements tailored to local planning policies
Application tracking and proactive management
How to prepare:
Collect information on any previous planning permissions
Approach neighbours who might be affected by proposals
Timeframe: Typically 8-12 weeks for standard applications are typical, however, pre application consultations can decrease this time.
Stage 7: Compliance with Building Regulations
Transforming design into technical reality
When planning permission is secured, we then produce more detailed technical information for construction, put together and oversee the application for building regulations approval, and coordinate with other specialists where necessary. These are very comprehensive documents which are coordinated with structural engineers and which show construction details, materials, and performance requirements that are to satisfy the Approved Building Control Documents.
What we deliver:
Construction detail drawings with comprehensive specifications
Integration of the structure in collaboration with engineers
Material specifications that are relevant to your project.
Building control submission and management.
Verification of the technical compliance with all the regulations.
Our technical excellence covers:
Structural integrity (Part A) - different solutions for various West Midlands property types.
Fire safety (Part B) - Solihull's traditional properties: specific solutions.
Site preparation and moisture protection (Part C) - typical ground conditions in the region.
Thermal performance (Part L) - Energy efficiency standards that are easier to meet.
Ventilation strategies (Part F) - Both modern and traditional buildings considered.
Sound insulation (Part E) - Necessary a lot for semi-detached properties in Birmingham.
Accessibility considerations (Part M) - We make sure that the requirements are met without compromising the design.
How to prepare:
Understand the specific technical requirements for your property type
Consider any specialist needs (e.g. sustainable features)
Think about questions about construction methods and materials
Think about specific performance requirements (acoustic, thermal)
Think about future-proofing aspects (e.g. electric vehicle charging).
Timeframe: 3-4 weeks for document preparation and 4-6 weeks for approval.
The McTernan Communication Promise
Every successful architectural project has clear and consistent communication at its heart, and our approach ensures you are informed, engaged, and confident throughout your journey with us.
Our Communication Standards:
Maintain a single point of contact for continuity of contact throughout your project.
Response time guarantee of one business day to all client communications.
Progress reports are scheduled to be made at regular intervals, depending on whether there is a project to report on.
Technical concepts are described in simple language.
Visual aids enhance understanding.
Simple and straight forward language is used in documenting all key decisions for future reference and use.
Digital Collaboration Framework: We use sophisticated but user-friendly tools to enhance project communication:
A secure client portal for document sharing and approval.
A project management platform for tracking milestones and decisions.
Virtual markup tools for drawing feedback.
A shared calendar system for scheduling meetings and site visits.
Digital signature capability for formal approvals.
Photo documentation system for construction progress.
Communication Channels:
Face-to-face meetings in your home
Video conferences when in-person meetings aren't possible
Telephone conversations for quick updates
Email for formal documentation
Secure online project portal for drawing sharing and approval
"Mark's communication was great throughout our project in Solihull. We never were unclear on what was going on and he made what was often quite complex planning matters very understandable. It was incredibly reassuring to have access to him directly at all times should we have any questions" — Rachel, Coventry
Our Technical-Creative Harmony
The thing that has made McTernan Design so special is the unique level of technical accuracy combined with the creative ideas that have helped homeowners in Solihull and Birmingham:
Design Intent Preservation: Our technical development enhances rather than compromises the original design vision
Problem-Prevention Focus: Our technical development is an enhancement, not a compromise of the original design intention.
Creative-Practical Balance: We tackle the issues at design stage not discover them during construction.
Constructability Consideration: Our designs are conscious of construction realities from the beginning.
Builder Communication Enhancement: We provide clear and detailed technical documentation for accurate costing and construction.
Value Engineering Intelligence: When cost control is needed, we ensure that there is no significant deterioration in design quality.
Longevity Consideration: Our technical method delivers long lasting structures that look and function well.
Localised Architectural Expertise
Solihull-Specific Considerations
The area’s characteristics inform the way we approach Solihull properties:
Tudor-Influenced Suburbs: Our designs for places like Dorridge and Knowle honour the traditional forms even as they incorporate the contemporary functionality
Mature Tree Management: We work through Solihull’s strict Tree Preservation Orders using design innovations that conserve the important landscape features
Generous Plot Adaptation: We get the best out of Solihull’s larger plot sizes, while we maintain the neighbourhood character
Heritage Sensitivity: Solihull’s conservation areas are where we employ material choices and proportions that fit in well with the protected streetscapes
House Extension Guidelines: We ensure compliance with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council’s specific policies, which our intimate understanding of them allows us to do without compromising design ambition.
Birmingham-Specific Expertise
The approach that we take to Birmingham properties is intended to meet the city's specific styles:
Victorian Terrace Transformation: We are specialist in opening up traditional Birmingham terraces without altering their external character
45-Degree Code Navigation: We design our structures to meet Birmingham City Council's 45-Degree Code constraints in a creative manner
Conservation Area Knowledge: We know the particular needs of Edgbaston, Moseley and other conservation areas
Party Wall Expertise: We are able to manage Birmingham's closely linked housing stock without a hitch on the party wall front
Contemporary Interventions: We develop beautiful modern additions that suit Birmingham's architectural tradition of diversity.
Warwickshire Rural Excellence
Our approach to Warwickshire properties embraces their context as follows:
Barn Conversion Specialisation: We balance historic preservation and contemporary living in agricultural conversions.
Listed Building Sensitivity: We design for complex heritage considerations in protected structures.
Green Belt Navigation: The "'very special circumstances'" needed for Green Belt development are understood by us.
Local Material Integration: Traditional Warwickshire materials and techniques are specified to be incorporated into our specifications.
Rural Setting Maximisation: Our designs establish practical and meaningful relationships between the countryside and the interiors.
Materials & Sustainability Approach
Our material specifications and sustainability approach are tailored to local conditions and client values:
Regional Material Expertise
Warwickshire Brick Selection: Local suppliers are maintained to source from, to keep regional aesthetic traditions.
Reclaimed Materials: We also use materials from Birmingham's industrial heritage when appropriate.
Timber Specification: We select the right species for the West Midlands climate to last long.
Contemporary Materials: We specify modern materials that are suitable to use in traditional contexts when required.
Weathering Consideration: Our material choices are based on how the West Midlands climate will affect the aging and patination of the elements.
Sustainability Integration
Our process integrates sustainability criteria into every stage of the process:
Stage 1: Evaluation of passive design possibilities tailored to your specific site orientation
Stage 2: Integration of thermal strategies relevant to your property type
Stage 3: Visualization of the sustainable features and performance benefits
Stage 4: Guidance through the planning policies that support eco-friendly design
Stage 5: Identification of materials and systems that are better than the minimum required standards
Stage 6: Assistance with the correct installation of energy generating technologies.
Service Packages: Tailored to Your Needs
We offer structured service tiers that provide clear options while maintaining our commitment to quality and professionalism.
Foundation Service
Site survey and an initial consultation
2D architectural drawings suitable for planning applications.
Basic planning submission management.
Limited design revisions
Building regulations drawings are an optional additional service.
Email and phone support
Investment Range: £1,000-£2,500 for extensions, £1,200-£3,000 for loft conversions
Comprehensive Service
Thorough site analysis and detailed consultation
Design development is included with two revision cycles
2D architectural drawings with basic 3D modelling.
Responses to planning queries and objections.
Responses to planning queries and objections
Building regulations drawings and submissions.
Interactive Design Meeting in your home.
Support is provided throughout the project.
Investment Range: 1.9-4k for extensions, 2-3.5k for loft conversions.
Specialised Service Add-Ons
For projects with specific requirements:
Heritage Assessment Package: For listed buildings or conservation areas (£500-£1,200)
Planning Appeal Support: For rejected applications requiring specialised advocacy (£800-£1,500)
Construction Phase Management: Enhanced site presence during building (£75-£95/hour)
Premium Package: Ultimate Experience
Client consultation period extended with detailed brief development
Several design concept options
Extensive design revisions until client satisfaction is met.
3D modelling and visualization of the entire project
Virtual reality walkthrough experiences
YouTube videos showing internal and external views
Full planning application management with additional supporting materials.
A detailed building regulations package.
Builder recommendation and tender support
Investment Range: £4,000-£7,000 for extensions, £5,000-£10,000 for barn conversions
McTernan Design provide comprehensive architectural services throughout Solihull | Knowle | Dorridge | Shirley | Olton | Birmingham | Edgbaston | Moseley | Harborne | Sutton Coldfield | Kings Heath | Warwickshire | Warwick | Leamington Spa | Stratford-upon-Avon | Kenilworth | Coventry and surrounding areas
Start Your Architectural Journey Today
Ready to make your home look new again? Get in touch with us and let’s start with the first step of booking your first initial consultation, which is free.
What to Expect: Our free site consultation includes:
Comprehensive desktop site assessment and review of the planning history
Exploration of design possibilities
An overview of the planning regulations that apply to your area
Initial budget guidance
Timeframe estimation based on the type of project and your area.
Explanation of the process.
There's no commitment; you'll gain valuable insights about your property's potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Process
How much does architectural design typically cost in Solihull and Birmingham?
The costs of architectural fees depend on the level of project complexity, the type of service and design package chosen. Our basic service is £1,000 for simple extensions in Solihull, while our comprehensive packages for more complex projects in Birmingham cost between £2,000-£7,000. We will be able to give a more specific fee proposal for your project when we discuss it during our initial consultation.
Do I need planning permission for my extension in Solihull?
Not all projects require planning permission. Some extensions and alterations are covered by 'Permitted Development Rights' which permit certain works without the need for formal planning permission. Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council has its own guidelines as to who is eligible. At the start of the project, we will determine whether your project is likely to need planning permission and what the best approach is.
What's the difference between your approach and architects in the West Midlands?
We are different from most of the architecture practices in the region who work from 2D drawings in office settings, we take the design process to your home with the help of immersive 3D visualization technology. Using VR, our clients can walk through their proposed spaces in virtual reality before construction starts. We also have specialised expertise with local planning authorities in Solihull, Birmingham and Warwickshire; this has given us approval rates that are significantly above the regional average.
How does your virtual reality experience work?
Our VR experience uses D5 Render for photorealistic rendering combined with Oculus Quest headsets to provide you with an immersive walkthrough of how your proposed design would look like. We bring this technology to your home during our design meetings, and you can virtually 'walk' through your new spaces and experience them at full scale before construction starts. It helps you understand spatial relationships, light conditions, and how the design will actually work in real life.
How long does the entire process take from initial consultation to completed construction?
Each project is different and here are the typical timelines in the West Midlands:
Solihull Single-storey extensions: 7-10 months from consultation to completion
Birmingham Two-storey extensions: 7-12 months from consultation to completion
Loft conversions in Warwickshire: 6-8 months from consultation to completion.
Barn conversions: 8-14 months from consultation to completion.
How do you handle the 45-Degree Code in Birmingham applications?
The 45° Birmingham Restriction poses certain problems in regard to extensions in the city. Our method entails a creative use of massing, strategic roof design, and a thorough analysis of the site in relation to the neighbouring properties, solar path analysis and interaction with the planning officers. We have gained considerable experience in the optimisation of the design potential while working with this particular restriction and achieved a high planning approval rate in Birmingham.
Want to Bring Your Vision to Life?
Want to change the look of your home and make it both beautiful and functional as well as compliant? Contact McTernan Design today to discover how our immersive architectural process can change that.
