About

Giles Architects

We specialize in exceptional design, delivering beautiful and functional projects that enhance your lifestyle. Our team takes pride in creating stunning spaces that improve the way you live and work

As architects based in Winchester, we specialise in house extensions, new build homes, and housing developments across Hampshire, Surrey, West Sussex, and London.

With over a decade of experience at a leading practice in central London, we blend cutting-edge design with deep expertise in construction and building technology. Our passion lies in creating high-quality, sustainable projects that enhance our clients’ lives and exceed their expectations.

We are committed to providing a personalised service, listening closely to our clients’ needs, and offering thoughtful, tailored solutions. Every project is treated with the utmost care – your vision is our priority, and we provide expert guidance and inspiration every step of the way.

While we specialise in residential and mixed-use developments, our broad experience allows us to work across various sectors. From small-scale projects to large, multi-million-pound schemes, we have extensive knowledge of the UK design and construction process, managing projects in residential, educational, and commercial sectors with expertise.

We specialise in a wide range of modern design tools, including Building Information Modelling (BIM). By utilising 3D visuals and animations, we can effectively communicate design concepts to our clients and planning authorities. Additionally, we value the artistry of hand-drawn sketches and incorporate various media throughout the design process to enrich and inform our work.

As a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) chartered practice, we follow the RIBA Plan of Work, which guides each stage of the planning, design, and construction process, from initial concept to final completion. Below, we outline the services we offer at each stage of a project.

CONCEPT DESIGN AND FEASIBILITY (RIBA Stage 0-1)

We will have an initial meeting with you to unwrap the project brief, understand your vision, and discuss design concepts. We carry out detailed site analysis and arrange site surveys if required. We research local planning policy and begin to develop informed and considered design ideas and options for discussion. We also advise you of any other specialist consultants that may be required during the planning process.

THE PLANNING PROCESS (RIBA Stage 2-3)

We work closely with the Local Authority and local communities to develop a design that is likely to achieve the best possible planning consent. We are experienced in complex planning processes involving multiple stakeholders, and are skilled in designing projects that respond to the various requirements while ensuring we adhere to your project brief and quality standards. Your needs and aspirations always remain our priority. Once a design is developed and agreed we submit a planning application on your behalf and liaise closely with the local authority throughout the process.

TECHNICAL DESIGN AND BUILDING REGULATIONS (RIBA Stage 4)

We produce a detailed and coordinated design package which you can share with contractors for pricing, and submit with your Building Regulations application. At this stage we always use Building Information Modelling (BIM) – however small the project – to coordinate the details in 3D prior to construction work beginning on site. This helps clarify design details and simplify the construction process.

CONSTRUCTION (RIBA Stage 5)

We produce working drawings that can be used for construction on site. We are passionate about the detail of the design, and it is at this stage we ensure the details provide an aesthetically beautiful architectural solution that is technically achievable. We can oversee the contractor on site, attend site meetings, and administer JCT Contracts on smaller projects if required.

Project Budget

We understand that budget control is of paramount importance to a successful project, and also for your peace of mind. We work closely with you or with third party cost consultants, from the beginning to help understand any financial constraints and considerations, and we continuously review costs throughout the process. We can also work closely with your preferred contractors to ensure cost-effective design solutions, while maintaining architectural quality.

If you need any more information or would like a friendly, no-obligation chat about how we can help, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to hear about your project and to advise on the best way to realise your vision.

Testimonials

“Alex has brought our ideas to life with his contemporary designs adding his own thoughts and ideas. He has been very helpful with his advice and guidance throughout this whole process, which we are new too. We would recommend Giles Architects to anyone who is thinking of embarking on their own renovation project.”

“Alex was professional, accommodating and clearly has an eye for detail that we found very useful throughout the project. His way of communicating is clear and concise so that non-architects can understand what is being proposed.”

“Cannot recommend Alex highly enough. His creativity and integrity are second to none.”

“They came up with several outstanding designs, one of which we selected. Their creative and innovative design ideas were truly magnificent.”

“A fantastic service which I would certainly use again and recommend highly. The drawings provided the best possible use of space and all communication throughout the process was clear and professional.”