Designing SolutionsWelcome to my Website
Ron Gonshaw
A member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB) with over 40 years experience.
DESIGN STAGE VIDEO
Sometimes we need help to visualise the design. Extensions and Alterations, Cheadle.
MORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR
Your home! Is a financial and emotional investment, creating spaces for living and enjoying with family and friends. Not just adding a box! Helping you to think out of the box!
FIND OUT MORE
My career, experience and what I do for my clients. Not only an Architect but also a Website builder. Sorry only for this one 😀!
WHAT I DO
I design your project with you, taking it through Planning and Building Regulations approvals, using state of the art 3D computer modelling. Advising you on the key issues in the design and construction process.
PROJECTS
After a successful career covering Medical, Commercial and Community projects, I am now semi-retired and mainly undertake residential work, including extensions and alterations, because I simply enjoy what I do!!
COST
Your project, is the biggest single investment after the purchase of your property and you should have professional advice. If you are looking for a cheap set of plans I’m sorry you are looking in the wrong place. My charges are sensible, definitely not over the top, tailored to your requirements and I don’t charge VAT.
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
Appointing an Architect means you are getting the best possible advice. A word of WARNING- it’s illegal in this country to call yourself an Architect if you are not registered. Check with ARB and RIBA. IF THEY ARE NOT ON THE REGISTER THEY ARE NOT ARCHITECTS!!!
RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS
Rear Extension in SK8. In addition to Obtaining Planning Approval and Building Regulations Provided Tender and Contract Administration.
REAR EXTENSION AND MAKEOVER
Rear Extension and make over in Bramhall. Design and obtained Planning and Building Regulations Approvals
TRADITIONAL TRANSFORMATION
Redesign and extension to create an open plan kitchen and morning room onto a raised deck in Didsbury.
GLASS AND STEEL
Double storey glass and steel extension with balcony and stainless steel spiral staircase, Extending the living room and creating a conservatory to the bedroom under. In Bury.
NEW BUILD
New build bungalow in Whitefield North Manchester. Contemporary design with dormers, open plan living space on the ground floor and render finish.
THE GRAND DESIGN
A Complete transformation in Hale Barnes
IMPORTANT CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION
I will be adding important information about current construction issues!! Lots of new stuff out there with Building Regulations Standards going up, particularly Thermal efficiency and ventilation, which should be specified to the current requirements.
PLANNING DELAYS 😱 REALLY CAN'T USE COVID AS AN EXCUSE ANY MORE OR CAN THEY?
Planning before COVID used to have a target of 8 weeks to decide an application. Now open ended, anything between 3 to 4 months possibly longer. Difficult to contact planning officers, which they are saying is now due to staff shortages and volume of applications. Please allow for the extra time in planning your project!
IN THE NEWS.. PLANNING APPROVAL NOT NEEDED?
You may have seen ‘ Planning Permission Not Needed For Extensions’. The reports are about Permitted Development Rights. Houses can be extended without having to make a full planning application but conditions apply and you will need advice.
Even if your project does come within the rules my advice is to make an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness, it’s quicker and cheaper than a full application and will give you confirmation that PD rights apply. Particularly important when you come to sell your house. You have the paper trail!
NEIGHBOURS, PARTY WALL ACT, RIGHTS OF LIGHT?
Sounds worrying but shouldn’t be. Your Architect is here to guide and advise but basically it comes down to communication so we don’t fall out with our neighbours and you will still be invited for afternoon tea!
THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE. GETTING IT RIGHT AND YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW.
The essence of a successful build is the right choice of builder. Local recommendation and reputation is the best but the critical ingredient is clarity and communication. Clear about what you want him to do, time frames and a contract. The contract can come in may forms and Standard Ones are available through the RIBA or JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) . This is where your architect can advise. Just give me a call.