ABOUT
I established Lacaze Architecture in 2017 after moving to Cornwall from London. Having worked in practices across London and Essex, I wanted to provide a service that was more direct, transparent, and personal.
I focus entirely on residential architecture – handling projects of all sizes, from small extensions and renovations to full-scale new builds.
THE PRACTICE
Lacaze Architecture is a Chartered Practice (CIAT) and a member of the LABC Partner Authority Scheme. This means that while I handle the creative side of your design, the work is rooted in technical reality and building regulations.
I have intentionally kept Lacaze Architecture as a solo practice to ensure a direct, one-to-one service. By keeping the practice personal and focused, I ensure that you deal only with me from start to finish. This direct approach offers total consistency; your project benefits from my dedicated attention and Chartered expertise at every stage of the design and technical process.
FAQS
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ARCHITECT VS AN ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST
While both roles contribute to the design of buildings, our focus differs. Where an architect is traditionally trained in conceptual aesthetics and spatial planning, a Chartered Architectural Technologist focuses on the science of architecture – technical detailing, construction methods, and “buildability.”
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER AT LACAZE ARCHITECTURE?
I provide a comprehensive range of architectural services for residential projects across Cornwall. This includes initial feasibility studies, creative design concepts, and the preparation of detailed technical drawing packages for Planning and Building Regulations. I specialise in bespoke home extensions, annexes, and loft conversions, handling the entire technical process from start to finish.
HOW DO YOU STRUCTURE YOUR PRICING?
Every project is unique, so I provide a bespoke fee proposal after our initial consultation once I understand the scale and complexity of your requirements. However, I am usually able to provide a helpful indicative range before we meet, provided you can share some initial project information. This is then formalised into a fixed proposal following our meeting. My fees are typically structured in stages – split between the Design/Planning phase and the Technical/Building Regulations phase – ensuring you have clear, transparent costs at each milestone of the project.
DO YOU PROVIDE 3D DESIGNS AS WELL AS 2D DRAWINGS?
Yes. While 2D technical drawings are essential for planning and construction, I use 3D modelling throughout the design process. This helps you visualise the massing, light, and flow of the space before any work begins on-site. It is a vital tool for ensuring the design meets your expectations.
HOW LONG DOES THE PLANNING PROCESS TYPICALLY TAKE?
Once I submit your application to the Cornwall Council Planning Department, it typically takes around 10 working days for validation. Following this, the statutory period for a decision is usually 8 weeks.
Once planning is granted, we move into the Building Regulations stage. I will produce the detailed technical drawings and submit them for approval. As an LABC Partner, I can work directly with the local authority, or we can use an independent approved inspector like Stroma—whichever is best suited to your project. I focus on ensuring all documentation is precise from the outset to help the entire process move as smoothly as possible.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLANNING PERMISSION & PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT?
Planning Permission is a formal application for the “look” and “impact” of a project, whereas Permitted Development (PD) allows for certain types of work to be carried out without a full application, provided they meet strict criteria, for example, some extensions & loft conversions don’t require full planning permission. I will assess your project early on to determine the most efficient route, often recommending a ‘Certificate of Lawfulness’ for PD projects to provide you with legal certainty for the future.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLANNING PERMISSION & BUILDING REGULATIONS/CONTROL?
They are two separate processes that look at different aspects of your project. Planning Permission deals with the external appearance, size, and impact of the design on the surrounding area. Building Control focuses on the technical side – ensuring the construction meets mandatory safety, structural, and energy efficiency standards. I handle both stages for you, providing the creative design for planning and the detailed technical drawing packages required for Building Regulations approval. I also work closely with trusted local structural engineers and can help coordinate their involvement to ensure your technical package is fully comprehensive.
CAN YOU HELP ME FIND A BUILDER OR CONTRACTOR?
I am always happy to recommend reputable local contractors I have worked with previously across Cornwall. Having a set of my detailed technical drawings is a significant advantage during this stage; it allows builders to provide clear, accurate quotes based on precise specifications. This gives you much more certainty and confidence in the project’s budget and timeline before any work begins on-site.
START YOUR PROJECT ENQUIRY
I love hearing about the ambitions you have for your home.
Every project begins with a simple conversation or email. Get in touch below, and I will happily talk you through the architectural process and how I can help bring your ideas to life.
Please contact me on the form or email me on natalie@lacazearchitecture.com