TEMBOK Design & Build
Full Design & Planning
For Your Building Project
in Kent
From initial concept and architectural drawings to planning applications and building control submissions — we manage the design and approval process so your project starts right.
5-star rated on Google · Design-led building from concept to completion
Why Design and Planning Matter
The design and planning phase determines the success of your entire building project. Rushed or poorly considered designs lead to planning refusals, expensive redesigns, construction problems and finished spaces that do not function as intended.
At TEMBOK, we offer a complete design and planning service that bridges the gap between your vision and a buildable, approved project. We coordinate with architects, structural engineers, planning consultants and building control to ensure your project is designed correctly from the outset.
This service covers extensions, loft conversions, new builds, garage conversions and major renovations across Kent. Whether your project requires full planning permission, falls under Permitted Development, or needs a lawful development certificate — we manage the process.
Because we also build the projects we design, our approach is inherently practical. We design for buildability, cost efficiency and long-term performance — not just aesthetics on paper. This means fewer surprises during construction and better value for your investment.
Why This Matters
What Goes Wrong Without Proper Design
Projects that skip proper design often encounter avoidable problems: planning applications rejected due to design policy conflicts, structural issues discovered during construction, layouts that do not function practically, and budgets blown by unforeseen complications.
Engaging a builder without proper drawings leads to ambiguity. Without detailed specifications, different contractors interpret the project differently, making quotation comparison meaningless and dispute resolution difficult.
Neighbour objections and planning committee concerns are best addressed proactively through good design, not reactively after a refusal. Sensitive design that respects the local context, neighbour amenity and planning policy has a significantly higher approval rate.
Investing in thorough design and planning saves money overall. Clear drawings, detailed specifications and approved plans mean accurate pricing, efficient construction and no costly mid-project changes.
Our Process
Our Design & Planning Process
Initial Consultation
We visit your property, discuss your requirements and vision, assess the site constraints and opportunities, and advise on the most suitable approach — planning strategy, approximate budget and realistic timeline.
Concept Design
We create initial design concepts showing layout options, spatial arrangements and key design features. These are reviewed and refined with your feedback until the design direction is agreed.
Detailed Drawings & Specification
Full architectural drawings are produced including floor plans, elevations, sections and construction details. Material specifications are defined. Structural engineering is coordinated.
Planning Application
We prepare and submit the planning application (or Permitted Development confirmation) with all required documentation — design and access statements, heritage statements, ecology reports as needed.
Building Control & Construction Readiness
Building control applications submitted with structural calculations and construction details. Your project is fully approved and ready to build.
What You Get
Why Use TEMBOK for Design & Planning
Design-to-Build Continuity
The team that designs your project also builds it. No information lost in translation between architect and builder. Practical buildability is embedded from day one.
95%+ Planning Approval Rate
Our designs are created with planning policy in mind. We address common objection points proactively, resulting in a high first-time approval rate.
Cost-Aware Design
We design with construction costs in mind, avoiding expensive details that add cost without proportionate benefit. Every design decision is value-engineered.
Single Point of Contact
We coordinate architects, engineers, planning consultants and building control on your behalf. You deal with one team throughout the entire process.
Clear Visual Communication
Detailed drawings and 3D visualisations where appropriate, so you can see and understand your project before committing to construction.
Local Knowledge
We understand Kent's planning landscape — conservation areas, AONB requirements, local authority preferences and the specific policies that affect your application.
Design & Planning Services in Detail
Feasibility Studies: Before committing to design fees, we assess whether your project is feasible — checking planning constraints, structural viability, access requirements and budget alignment. This prevents wasted investment on projects that are not viable.
Architectural Design: We coordinate with qualified architects to produce planning and building regulation drawings. These include site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, construction details and specifications.
Planning Applications: Full planning applications, householder applications, prior approval notifications and lawful development certificates — prepared with all supporting documentation and submitted on your behalf.
Structural Engineering: We commission structural calculations from qualified engineers for steelwork, foundations, floor structures, retaining walls and any other elements requiring engineering design. All calculations are submitted with building control applications.
Building Control Submissions: Full plans applications to building control with construction details, structural calculations, energy performance data and ventilation strategies. We manage all stage inspections throughout construction.
Party Wall Services: Where your project affects a party wall or is near a boundary, we advise on Party Wall Act requirements and coordinate with party wall surveyors.
We provide design and planning services for projects across Kent including Cranbrook, Tenterden, Ashford and Tunbridge Wells.
Common Questions