Our Services

House extensions offer a brilliant solution to households that are a little stuck for space. Whether you’re not ready to move house altogether but need more room to get you through the next few years, or if you want to turn your house into your forever home by maxing out its potential, a house extension is a solution. What’s great about a house extension is that it comes with options. Calvert Brain & Fraulo Architectural Ltd have plenty of innovative ideas to make that house extension happen in a way that suits your household needs and your financial situation.

An extension for a commercial or industrial project involves adding extra space for offices, production facilities, storage, or other business functions. Extensions for commercial and industrial projects can be complex and require careful planning and execution to ensure they meet all regulatory requirements and are structurally sound. The extension process can also involve obtaining approvals from various government agencies, as well as coordinating with contractors and other stakeholders to complete the project on time and within budget. Ultimately, a well-designed and executed extension can help businesses grow and thrive by providing the additional space and facilities needed to meet the demands of their customers and markets.

Whether it is a rear extension for a bungalow, a single-storey open-plan extension, a loft conversion on a terraced house, an expansive double-storey extension or an extension to industrial or commercial buildings, we can help.

We have carried out many extensions and alterations projects for our clients, some small, some large and lots in between. But no matter what, we ensure that each project is treated with special care and attention because we know that every project is very important to our clients. We try our hardest to match each client’s aspirations and deliver a design with something different wherever possible because we’re all unique. So, whatever your budget, needs, and style, we’ll be happy to talk through your project step-by-step, from design to planning and building regulations to build.

If you love where you live and can’t bear to move out but just fancy a change, then there is an option of alterations and remodelling.

Remodelling and alterations refer to making changes to an existing building or space, either for functional or aesthetic purposes. Remodelling can involve significant changes to the layout or structure of a building, whereas alterations typically involve more minor changes. Both remodelling and alterations can be done to improve the functionality or appearance of a building, accommodate changing needs, or increase its value. However, these processes can be complex and require careful planning and coordination to ensure the work is done safely, efficiently, and within budget. With the right planning and execution, remodelling and alterations can transform an outdated or under-utilised space into a modern, functional, and attractive environment.

We have carried out many remodelling/alterations projects for our clients; some are small, some are large, and there are lots between industrial/commercial and residential. But no matter what, we ensure that each project is treated with special attention because, for us, every project is special and unique. We try our hardest to match clients’ aspirations and add a slight touch to come up with a solution that is not only unique but also cost-effective. So whatever your budget, whatever you need, whatever your style, please contact us. We are happy to deliver your needs and meet your requirements.

Every renovation/refurbishment project has its own merits, and there are many opportunities to create a unique home – it’s all about seeing the positives and picturing the finished project. No job is too small for us.
If you are looking to renovate the kitchen, would like to upgrade for sound or thermal, or have a problem with water egress, we can help.
We have extensive knowledge and have helped clients to bring their properties back to life.

Loft conversions are probably the most complicated type of alteration that can be undertaken to a domestic property. The design work relating to such a project falls into two categories – architectural and engineering design.

The architectural design relates to the arrangement of the space and how this interfaces with the existing property. It also deals with issues such as means of escape and what is required to meet the many other non-structural aspects of the Building Regulations, such as the thermal performance of the completed dwelling, sound insulation, drainage, etc. The engineering issues related to what is required to ensure that the new structural elements are sufficiently strong and also that the existing structure of the dwelling is not compromised by the formation of the new space within the roof structure, ensuring that the existing structure, lintels and foundations of the property are not compromised in any way.

Loft conversions are permitted development within certain limits, so you may not need planning permission. If you are considering a loft conversion and would like to know whether it would be permitted development, we can conduct a planning appraisal to check and advise you accordingly. Almost all developments require building regulations even if planning permission is not required and this is also something we can assist with by preparing detailed construction drawings, but these need to be prepared in association with a structural engineer.

We have carried out many loft conversion projects for our clients. We work together with our sister company, Calvert Brain & Fraulo Ltd, to ensure that your loft conversion meets all architectural and structural engineering requirements, starting from the very conception of the project.

Listed buildings are protected by law, and any alterations or changes to the building’s appearance or structure must be approved by the local planning authority. The planning process for listed buildings can be complex and time-consuming, as the authority will carefully review any proposed changes to ensure that they do not harm the building’s historic or architectural value. Planning permission may be required for alterations that would not normally need approval for non-listed buildings, and there may be restrictions on the types of materials, colours, and designs that can be used. However, with proper planning and execution, it is possible to make changes to a listed building that are sympathetic to its historic character and that enhance its value as a cultural and architectural asset.

Calvert Brain & Fraulo Architectural Ltd has dealt with many applications for Listed Building Consent, especially for properties in the King’s Lynn area due to the historic nature of the town, but also in other locations. Calvert Brain & Fraulo Architectural Ltd operates from a Grade II Listed Building and, therefore, has a good appreciation of the requirements for dealing with historic buildings. Listed Building consent, once granted, lasts for three years.

If you would like to convert and restore a disused agricultural building to create a large open pan that shows character and a rural setting, then barn conversion is your ideal project. You will get a lovely place to live with all those exposed beams, high ceilings, farmhouse kitchen and the little quirks that come with a converted property.

Transforming a former agricultural building, such as a barn, into residential or commercial property has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it offers a unique opportunity to create a distinctive and characterful living or working space. Barn conversions can be challenging, as the original structure may not be designed for modern living or commercial use. However, with careful planning and design, it is possible to create a functional and stylish space that retains the historic charm of the original building.

Whether converting a barn from scratch or revamping a previous conversion and making the most of the building’s space, we can help. We will help you to create a unique and attractive property that blends the traditional character of a rural barn with modern living needs.

Whether you’re creating a home office, a gym, or knocking through from the main house to add space to your kitchen or living room – a garage conversion will almost certainly add value to your home. The great thing about a garage conversion is that it is generally less expensive and quicker to complete than building a house extension. It can also be less complex in terms of planning permissions – though that will depend on exactly how you’re converting the garage and what you’ll be using the space for.

If your intention is to convert a garage into a separate house or annexe (regardless of who will occupy it), then planning permission is required. Sometimes, permitted development rights have been removed from some properties, and therefore, planning permission is required. This is particularly true if you live in a new housing development, conservation area, or curtilage to a listed building.

If your garage is adjacent to your kitchen, knocking out the wall between the two in order to create one larger family kitchen or kitchen/diner is a great idea. Depending on the existing layout of your property, you may wish to convert your garage into an additional bedroom, playroom or family room where you all can relax.

Generally, Planning permission is not required for a garage conversion, but you definitely need Building Regulations approval.

Whether it is for children to carry out homework or for you or another member of the family to have somewhere quiet and organised to work from, home offices are a great idea. A home office can be a detached modular building located in the garden which can have a self-contained entrance for work-related visitors. It can be in the loft or attached room combined with a guest bedroom.

With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, many people are creating home offices that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. The factors to consider may include the need for privacy, soundproofing, and storage. The design of a home office should also reflect the individual’s personal style and preferences to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and conducive to work.

Overall, a home office is an important consideration for anyone who works from home, as it can have a significant impact on productivity, comfort, and overall well-being. By carefully planning and designing a home office that meets their needs, individuals can create a workspace that supports their professional and personal goals.

If you plan to do some form of construction work, it is likely that you will need planning approval. There are times when you will not, for example, for the installation of a Velux window (unless in a conservation area) or for works that come under permitted development rights.

The Planning Authority is a government body tasked with enforcing development policy. In essence, they are here to protect the rights of both the local community and you, the client. They are not particularly concerned with how a proposal will stand up but how it will look at its aesthetic qualities. They are concerned with how the proposed scheme will impact on their neighbour’s enjoyment of their property and surroundings. The planning process allows the client to get Planning Permission or Planning Consent to be allowed to build on the land or change the appearance or use of land or Buildings.

Calvert Brain & Fraulo Architectural Ltd has an excellent knowledge of current National Planning Legislation and local Planning Policy and will ensure that any given project meets the required design criteria in order for the project to be given the best chance of succeeding through the Planning process. It should be noted that we cannot guarantee that any given application will be successful. However, we have a high success rate of planning approval.

We will act as an agent on behalf of our clients applying for Planning Permission or Planning Consent. Applications will require the completion of all statutory documentation using the national 1APP system, including the preparation of Design & Access Statements, Listed Building Consent, Heritage Statements, etc. Applications regularly also require specialist reports such as Flood Risk Assessments, Structural Reports, Bat & Owl surveys, Ecological Surveys, Tree Surveys etc., as required by planning legislation.

The specialist reports and surveys are produced by consultants we have been working with for many years. They have good working knowledge in their specialised areas and produce high-quality documents, which are always appreciated by the Local Planning Authorities.

There are various types of Planning applications that may be required. Once a planning application is made on your behalf to the Local Planning Authority, a decision is normally made within 8 – 12 weeks from the date of the acknowledgement. We always liaise with the Local Planning Authorities during the planning process in order to maximise the likelihood of a positive outcome for any particular application.

The various planning applications you can submit to your local planning Authority are: Householder application, Full planning application, Outline planning application, Reserved matter application, Discharge of condition application, Advertisement Consent, Listed Building Consent etc.

The second approval that will be required for most projects is Building Regulations approval. The Building Regulations apply to building work in England & Wales and set standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety and health of people in or around those buildings. They also include requirements to ensure that fuel and power is conserved and facilities are provided for people, including those with disabilities, to access and move around inside buildings.

Once Planning Permission has been obtained, our highly experienced team can produce detailed drawings sufficient to obtain Building Regulations approval. We have an excellent understanding of construction technology and Building Regulations and undertake regular CPD seminars and training to ensure they are fully conversant with current products and regulations. We have a partnering agreement with CNC Building Control, the former Building Control Department of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk. Together, we can provide an unrivalled service.

Any Structural Engineering design work required for Building Regulations purposes can be provided by our sister company, Calvert Brain & Fraulo Ltd, Consulting Structural and Civil Engineers. There are two ways of obtaining Building Regulation approval, either by a Full Plans submission or via a Building notice.

This is the most popular route for us to choose to follow. A Full Plans submission requires detailed plans and specifications/calculations for the work showing the existing and proposed Floor Plans, Sections and Elevations. This is the best method of obtaining Building Regulation approval and results in a set of detailed construction drawings being prepared, which Building Control fully approves prior to work commencing on site. A Full Plans application also gives you the knowledge and peace of mind that your plans have been checked to make sure that the proposed building work complies with the Building Regulations. The completed and annotated drawings will also greatly assist builders in giving you an accurate quotation during the tendering process.

This is the less common route taken for building work requiring Building Regulations approval and is only used where the work is straightforward. The Building Notice process does not always require plans, so it’s quicker and less detailed than a full plans application. It is designed to enable some types of building work to get underway quickly, although it is best suited to small work.

If you decide to use the Building Notice procedure, you need to be confident that the work will comply with the Building Regulations, or you will risk having to correct any work you carry out if your local authority advises that it does not comply with the Building Regulations. Once you have submitted your ‘building notice’ and informed your local authority that you are about to start work, the work will be inspected as it progresses. The local authority will advise during inspections whether the work does or does not comply with the Building Regulations.

Our sister company, Calvert Brain & Fraulo Ltd, Consulting Structural and Civil Engineers, will help you who has many years of experience advising the Party wall matters.