Frequently Asked Questions

  • This studio focuses on residential architecture and small commercial projects and have a very good experience and understanding of project’s needs. I have a good understanding of what works well and what does not. I offer a clear design voice, direct client collaboration, and flexibility.

    The reasons people prefer to hire architecture and interior design studio Artist of Architecture are:

    • I care for your project. If I take on your project, I aim to make it as good as it can be.

    • You are human and you are treated as such for me you are not just a project number. Professional yet human approach.

    • I am listening to your requests and ideas and implement them into the project as much as feasible.

    • My turnaround is often faster

    • My drawings are of a good quality. For example, a recent client appreciated my quick turnaround and personalized approach, resulting in a smooth planning and building regulations approval process.

    • No matter the size of the project, I am interested in both small and large projects equally. They all are interesting to work on.

    • Whether you seek a standard simple, affordable project or
      a unique bespoke, stylish project, I am happy to help clients with any vision and goal for their project. I welcome clients with diverse visions and goals, providing unbiased support throughout their project.

    • My services can be more affordable.

    • As an architectural designer I can offer bigger artistic freedom for your ideas to express into your project. If you had a chance to look through architectural websites and their portfolios, they often share similar stylistic expression. Things can be done in many ways, and I can help you to express yourself. I am able to design the whole project all by myself (of course only if you wish so) but, by hiring me, you can bring in your ideas and I will help you to translate it into professional documents for your builder to build and I can assist you with obtaining permissions.

    • Some of the clients I have come across found working with other professionals frustrating due to communication. Therefore, clients prefer to choose my architectural services.

  • Artist-of-architecture is an independent boutique architecture and interior design studio led by me, Vladis.

    Although I was training to become an architect and earned a degree in architecture, my experience and client collaborations led me to specialise as an architectural designer instead. Therefore, I am an architectural designer not an architect. Clients value my collaborative approach because I listen carefully to what they are saying, reflect their priorities, and turn their ideas into design solutions, drawings, planning approvals and built outcomes.

    With more than 10 years of experience across residential and commercial projects in England, I have led projects from their conception through permits to final realisation.

    In the UK, both architects and architectural designers can support clients with design, planning permissions, construction and project delivery.

  • Although hiring a local architect may seem appealing for their area knowledge, I have found it is not essential and can sometimes restrict a project’s design potential.

    Artist of Architecture is intentionally small author-driven practice because the value comes from a clear design voice, direct client collaboration, and flexibility which can’t be found with bigger studios.

  • Although I am based in London, I also work across England.

    For international projects, I also can offer an international service in partnership with a local executive architect, who oversees the project on site.

  • I work on a range of projects, including new builds, extensions, and renovations.

    I am equally interested in projects of all sizes, as each one offers something unique.

  • Fees vary by project, depending on its scale, scope, and complexity. They also reflect the level of service required and the stages involved throughout the process. I provide fee structures tailored to the right level of service to deliver high-quality homes.

    At the time of writing my fees do not charge VAT, saving you 20%.

  • To keep your costs at minimum where possible I offer fixed fees for each stage of work that you need me for. This includes a standard number of revisions to get your project into final form and to get approved. This means majority of the projects are only charged the fixed price. However, some projects may require extra work (e.g. due to too many revisions, substantial change of the scheme or if planning or building officers require extra documentation) then the extra work would be charged on an hourly rate.

    For projects where fixed fee is not suitable, I offer either hourly rate or percentage fee based on the construction value.

    After our initial conversation I will be able to provide you with a quote for your project.

  • The exact timescale varies for each project. But extensions and renovations are faster, and it is easier to obtain permissions for. The new build projects will naturally take longer both at the design stage and also at the time to obtain permissions. Learn more about my process here.

  • No architect or architectural designer however skilled they are can guarantee that a planning permission will be obtained as there is many factors that determine the outcome of your project.

    It is worth noting that not every project requires a planning permission. Some projects fall under permitted development rights in which case I will guide your design to make use of these rights and will apply for certificate of lawful development. This route makes the whole process easier and faster for your project to be legal and constructed.

    In a case your project requires a planning permission I will guide you through this process and I will apply my expertise and skills with various planning departments across London and England to obtain planning permission.

    During our consultation we will discuss your goals, budget and planning constrains as they all have impact on your design and which route is suitable for your project.

  • Yes, I provide full interior design services which can also include furniture, fittings and equipment specifications (FF&E). This is a wonderful approach where architecture and interior can holistically be considered together.

    I am also comfortable to collaborate with your chosen interior designer or craftsmen.

  • Yes, absolutely.

  • In regard to the architectural style, I am very flexible. The style is determined primarily by your own preference and then by the planning constrains. Your home should express you and I will be glad to assist you. I have worked on a range of projects modern as well as on listed buildings and buildings in conservation areas. Rural countryside homes, Georgian style, Tudor style, Victorian terrace extensions, Victorian home renovations and modern, contemporary and sustainable homes, eco homes, green homes, passive houses and compact urban sites. For any of your needs I can even help you design your home in a more particular style or shape such as art deco home, hipster style home, boho style home or any other you might be interested in.  

  • With standard architect firms anyone can design your home depending on a practice it can be a student, new architect or a dedicated planning designer or all of them a bit, often focused only on one project stage and not taking into consideration the next construction stage while you still pay full price to cover all of their expenses.

    Therefore, Artist of Architecture is intentionally small author-driven practice because the value comes from a clear design voice, direct client collaboration, and flexibility which can’t be found with bigger studios.
    It is me, Vladis that will be running and working on your project. From consultation through design, permits to construction needs it will be me who you will be working with. One contact often makes things simpler.

  • I am not associated with any builders and therefore I do not provide recommendations for a specific builder.

    However, I can offer some information which can help you to choose a suitable contractor for your project.

  • Any project designed by me will provide a value. But value is a term that means different things to different people. Therefore, in order to achieve your specific goals the term value must be defined more specifically. Is it aesthetical value, re-sale value, cost of construction (with help of quantity surveyor), award winning design or something else? Let me know and I will assist you with achieving your goals.

  • All my drawings are in a very high standard and clear to understand.

    For simpler projects 2d is standard and for more complex projects I produce 3d images to communicate the design intention. This is to keep fees smaller. However, on request I can produce 3d images for you to better visualise and understand the proposed design. Architectural process should always be adapted to your needs. Just let me know.

  • Yes, I do for all projects.

    Every project I design whether new or existing.
    Any building that obtains building regulations approval must comply with the new current building regulations which set the minimum standards for government plan to sustainability and energy conservation which must be met. These standards already offer balance between energy conservation and the build cost.

    However, if your goal is to go further in your sustainability goals I can assist you from architectural stand point and I use expertise of specialist consultants who will help design the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, electrical, water installations in detail.