Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Torquay
Established in 1959 by Chartered Architect Charles Blake, our practice has grown into a respected architectural firm with over six decades of experience. We specialise in blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles, offering tailored solutions for residential and commercial projects across Devon and the wider UK. Our team, led by Simon Blake, combines deep local knowledge with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring every project meets both client aspirations and environmental standards.We maintain strong partnerships with Local Authority Building Control and have a proven track record of securing challenging planning permissions. Our dedication to quality has earned us multiple award shortlistings and long-term client relationships built on trust and expertise.
Services
Free Initial Consultation
Measured Survey
Design Development
Planning Permission
Building Regulations
Feasibility Studies
Construction Drawings
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1959
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of architectural experience in Devon and the UK
- Our team includes Chartered Architects with specialist planning expertise
- We maintain exemplary relationships with Local Authority Building Control
- Tailored services for both private homeowners and property developers
- Award-shortlisted for innovative design and planning solutions
What people say
Excellent service
Knowledgeable team
Smooth project delivery
Creative solutions
Successful planning permissions
Services
Free Initial Consultation
We provide complimentary initial consultations to assess your architectural needs. Our team visits your property to evaluate project feasibility, discuss design ideas, and suggest practical solutions. This no-obligation service helps determine the best approach for residential extensions, listed buildings, or complex developments.
Measured Survey
Our detailed measured surveys create accurate scaled drawings of existing structures. This process combines technical drafting with construction knowledge to produce floor plans, sections, and elevations. These drawings form the essential foundation for all subsequent design and planning work, ensuring precise project execution.
Planning Permission
We specialise in securing planning permissions through strategic submissions to local authorities. Our expertise includes navigating complex regulations, preparing persuasive proposals, and resolving objections. With strong relationships with planning departments, we maximise approval chances while maintaining design integrity for residential and commercial projects.
Building Regulations
Our team ensures projects meet all building regulations standards through expert submissions to Local Authority Building Control. We coordinate technical requirements, manage compliance documentation, and lead consultant teams when required. This service guarantees health, safety, and welfare standards while maintaining project timelines and budgets.
Design Development
We create bespoke architectural designs focused on space, light, and material selection. Our approach balances client aspirations with practical considerations, particularly for period buildings and new developments. The process includes concept development, material specification, and creating detailed proposals that maximise property value and functionality.
People
Simon Blake
Director
Simon Blake leads the practice with over 25 years of architectural experience. Specialising in planning negotiations and heritage projects, he maintains his father's legacy while advancing modern design principles. His expertise in complex consents and client-focused approach ensures successful project delivery.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including initial consultations, measured surveys, design development, planning permissions, building regulations compliance, and project management for residential and commercial properties.
Do you work outside Devon?
While based in Torquay, we undertake projects across the UK. Our local knowledge benefits Devon projects, but our expertise extends to architectural commissions nationwide through established professional networks.
How do you handle listed building projects?
We specialise in listed buildings with extensive experience navigating heritage regulations. Our approach preserves historical integrity while implementing modern improvements through sympathetic design solutions and expert planning negotiations.
What is your planning permission success rate?
We maintain a high success rate through strategic submissions and established relationships with planning authorities. Our track record includes challenging consents for complex projects in conservation areas and with difficult planning histories.
Can you assist with property development projects?
Yes, we work with property developers to maximise financial potential through design optimisation. Our services include feasibility studies, planning strategies, and construction documentation to enhance development value and ensure regulatory compliance.
