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by Sean Hill on May 3, 2023
RISE Design Studio is a small contemporary design-led architecture firm based in London. Our dedicated team of young and ambitious professionals is passionate about creating low-energy and low-embodied carbon designs that not only meet our clients’ needs but also contribute to a sustainable future.
Who We Are
Contrary to popular belief, we are not a large architectural firm with an army of employees. Our team may be small, but we possess a diverse range of skills and expertise. We handle every aspect of a project, from architecture and planning to interior design. While residential projects are our primary focus, we have also successfully completed projects in various sectors, including schools, offices, restaurants, and even a cinema. What sets us apart is our ability to tackle challenging sites. Our architectural strength combined with our extensive research on policies and precedents allows us to overcome any skepticism from local councils.
Making Life Easier for Homeowners
At RISE Design Studio, we make a pledge to our clients: we take on projects because we genuinely want to work on them. We have a genuine passion for extensions and refurbishments, and we would never sneer at a loft conversion simply because we’d prefer to work on a high-rise project. We understand that embarking on a construction project can be daunting, especially for those who have never worked with an architectural studio before. That’s why we prioritize transparency when it comes to costs. We believe in providing clear and detailed explanations of what you will be paying for, even if it means that we may appear more expensive than other firms. In reality, our upfront approach ensures that there are no hidden costs lurking in other quotes.
Throughout the project, we strive to achieve peace of mind for our clients. We understand that navigating the construction process can be overwhelming, which is why we offer comprehensive guidance and support from the initial idea to the final stages of construction. By working directly with an architect and our in-house planning and interior design teams, you can rest assured that your project will receive the attention it deserves. We take pride in offering a personalised experience, ensuring that we understand your unique vision and requirements.
Bringing Your Home Back to Life
As architects, our primary task is to listen to your aspirations and translate them into reality. We follow the wise advice of RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), which encourages us to focus on the outcome rather than simply the act of constructing a building. This means that we consider all possibilities, including rethinking the layout of your existing space to create the extra room you desire, without necessarily requiring an extension. Our goal is to provide innovative and sustainable solutions that not only meet your needs but also enhance your living experience.
Helping You Stay on Budget
While we cannot promise cheap construction (beware of anyone who does), we can utilise our extensive experience to advise you on where to invest your resources and where to save costs without compromising on quality. From the initial stages, we prioritise budget awareness and work diligently to ensure that costs do not escalate unnecessarily. If we believe that your budget is unrealistic for the desired outcome, we will communicate that to you transparently. Our commitment to delivering value for money is unwavering.
Making Life Easier for Developers
Whether you are an experienced property developer or embarking on your first project, our architectural and planning team is here to solve problems and offer comprehensive support. Over the past decade, we have specialised in residential architecture, particularly in extensions, renovations, and new-build developments with a construction value ranging from £200k to £4m. Our track record includes over 200 projects, covering more than 400,000 square feet of development throughout London and the UK (we have also completed projects in Paris and Barcelona).
We understand that developers seek more than just a set of drawings or a planning statement; they want a team that actively contributes to solving challenges and achieving their goals. By partnering with RISE Design Studio, you gain access to a multidisciplinary team that covers architecture, planning, urban design, and interior design. Unlike other firms, we offer a holistic approach, allowing you to work with a single team that understands your objectives and can deliver a transformative, bespoke design tailored to your needs.
Unlocking the Potential of Difficult Sites
Navigating the complexities of planning permission can be a significant hurdle for any development project, particularly on sites where initial council responses tend to be negative. At RISE Design Studio, we thrive on finding radical design solutions that address concerns such as loss of light for neighbours while creating visually appealing buildings. Our team develops thorough planning arguments that anticipate objections from both the council and the public.
We have a proven track record of success in obtaining planning permission on sites with a history of failed attempts. Our innovative designs and comprehensive planning strategies have enabled our clients to achieve their goals while adhering to regulatory requirements. Examples of our previous accomplishments include four new houses on a challenging site and a house located in a back garden. In both cases, we were able to secure planning permission after previous applications had been refused.
Simplifying the Construction Process
While our reputation was built on obtaining planning permission, a significant portion of our work at RISE Design Studio occurs during the later stages of a project (RIBA Stages 4-6). During this phase, our architectural team excels in producing detailed building regulations drawings and tender specifications. We focus not only on creating aesthetically pleasing designs but also on problem-solving and ensuring compliance with building regulations. Our collaboration with structural engineers and other specialised consultants ensures that your project is meticulously prepared for construction, streamlining the process and reducing delays caused by pre-commencement planning conditions.
Choose RISE Design Studio
At RISE Design Studio, we are passionate about creating sustainable, innovative, and functional architectural designs. Our small team allows us to provide personalised attention and a comprehensive range of services that extend beyond traditional architecture firms. By partnering with us, you gain access to a multidisciplinary team capable of delivering your vision while navigating the complexities of planning permission and ensuring cost-effective construction. We invite you to join us on this journey and explore the possibilities that RISE Design Studio can offer. Contact us today, and let’s bring your dreams to life.
If you would like to talk through your project with the team, please do get in touch at mail@risedesignstudio.co.uk or give us a call on 020 3973 9073
RISE Design Studio Architects company reg no: 08129708 VAT no: GB158316403 © RISE Design Studio. Trading since 2011.
