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Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Multiple locations

(44)
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‘20 Certificate of Excellence, 2020

About

At Shear Architectural Design, we believe that your home should be a reflection of your personality, style, and vision. That's why we offer a wide range of services to help you transform your house into your dream home. Whether you're looking for a simple renovation, an extension, a loft conversion, or a complete home transformation, our team can help you make it a reality.

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6 hires on Bark
1 day response time

Reviews (44)

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5/5

44 customer reviews

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24 October 2023

Darryl helped us redesign our 1930's bungalow to help create a lovely home which now flows perfectly. He also helped us with planning permission and building regulations for a rear and side extension.

Darryl was patient with us through our design process, as material costs increased, we had to adapt and think about what could be realistically achieved within budget, which meant a couple of redesigns. All these changes were made very quickly and helpfully.

Darryl stayed in contact until our building contractors were in place, who he also recommended and they have been great.

We've not quite finished our project and we are hoping to enlist Darryl's help again for the final stage.
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Reply from Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts on your experience working with us. We're thrilled to hear that you're pleased with the progress of your bungalow redesign and the way it now perfectly flows. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised, attentive service, and it's wonderful to know that our patience and support throughout the design process made a positive impact. We understand that managing budget constraints and adapting to changing material costs can be a challenge, but we are always committed to helping our clients achieve their goals within their means. The fact that you appreciated the speed and helpfulness of our redesigns means a lot to us. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or need further assistance. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us continually improve our services, and we look forward to working with you on the next phase of your project. We can't wait to see your beautiful bungalow when it's all completed!

24 October 2023

Darryl helped us redesign our 1930's bungalow to help create a lovely home which now flows perfectly. He also helped us with planning permission and building regulations for a rear and side extension. Darryl was patient with us through our design process, as material costs increased, we had to adapt and think about what could be realistically achieved within budget, which meant a couple of redesigns. All these changes were made very quickly and helpfully. Darryl stayed in contact until our building contractors were in place, who he also recommended and they have been great. We've not quite finished our project and we are hoping to enlist Darryl's help again for the final stage. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

16 May 2023

Hey Darryl, we wanted to thank you so much for the work you have done on our house from start to finish. It has been a huge undertaking for us, involving a new roof with a new surface material, external insulation and new render, all the outdoors work done and the ground floor gutted, restructured and renovated. It has been a lot of work over a couple of years and what we have appreciated is that you have stayed with us through the whole process right up until the end and long after you have been paid! You have been professional and so helpful and thank you so much for everything! From Philip and Sarah More...

Shear Architectural Design Ltd
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Reply from Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a heartfelt review. I greatly appreciate your kind words and I'm truly delighted to hear that you are satisfied with the work we've done on your home. The project was indeed a substantial undertaking, and it was a pleasure to be with you every step of the way. From installing a new roof, to the outdoor work and extensive renovation of your ground floor. It is our firm belief that the job isn't finished until our clients are completely satisfied, and it brings me immense joy to know that our perseverance and commitment have made a positive impact. Your satisfaction is our highest reward and it motivates us to strive for excellence in all our future endeavors. It has truly been a privilege to work with you both and I am thrilled that you're pleased with the outcome. Should you have any queries or need any further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We are always here to help. Thank you once again for your trust and for giving us the opportunity to bring your vision to life. We look forward to the possibility of working with you again in the future.

15 April 2023

Daryl was brilliant from the start survey to finish always available with good ideas for gaining extra space we loved the 3D images which really gave us a better idea of how it would look great work

Shear Architectural Design Ltd
S
Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Reply from Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with Shear Architectural Design. We are delighted to hear that you were pleased with the quality and detail of our drawings and plans. We always strive to deliver exceptional work that meets and exceeds our clients' expectations. We appreciate your willingness to use our services again and your strong recommendation. Your satisfaction and trust in our company mean a great deal to us, and we are grateful for your support. Please feel free to reach out to us for any future projects or if you have any questions. We look forward to working with you again and continuing to provide exceptional service.

13 April 2023

Darryl gave me clear, accurate information (verbal and written), about the processes involved to convert my garage and how to go about applying for permissions from the relevant authorities and agencies. He also did all the liaising on my behalf, and he is very knowledgeable about all the latest planning laws and regulations. He was clear about the costs involved and did not deviate from what had been promised from the outset. He suggested the best options for using the minimal space available and adapted the plans according to my needs and specifications until I was happy. He always made himself available promptly and nothing was ever too much trouble.
Lastly, he provided a list of reputable builders who he has worked closely with in the past, and trusts to carry work to a high standard. Unlike previous experiences with building work at my home, everything proceeded smoothly, efficiently and concluded extremely professionally, and I’m happy with the outcome.
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Reply from Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with Shear Architectural Design. We are thrilled to hear that we were able to provide you with clear, accurate information and guide you seamlessly through the process of converting your garage. It's our goal ensure our clients feel well-informed & supported every step of the way. We pride ourselves on staying up-to-date with the latest planning laws & regulations, as well as adapting to our clients' needs and preferences. Your feedback regarding Darryl's dedication to providing excellent service is truly appreciated. We are also delighted to know that your project was completed smoothly, efficiently, and professionally. It is our pleasure to work with clients like you, and we are delighted that you are happy with the outcome. Thank you once again for your kind words & please do not hesitate to reach out to us for any future projects or recommendations. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you again.

13 April 2023

Darryl gave me clear, accurate information (verbal and written), about the processes involved to convert my garage and how to go about applying for permissions from the relevant authorities and agencies. He also did all the liaising on my behalf, and he is very knowledgeable about all the latest planning laws and regulations. He was clear about the costs involved and did not deviate from what had been promised from the outset. He suggested the best options for using the minimal space available and adapted the plans according to my needs and specifications until I was happy. He always made himself available promptly and nothing was ever too much trouble. Lastly, he provided a list of reputable builders who he has worked closely with in the past, and trusts to carry work to a high standard. Unlike previous experiences with building work at my home, everything proceeded smoothly, efficiently and concluded extremely professionally, and I’m happy with the outcome. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

20 February 2023

Having worked with Darryl at Shear Architectural Design Ltd on several projects. Darryl attention to detail is first class, Darryl and his team are truly professional, efficient and a pleasure to work with. I would have not hesitation in recommending Darryl and his team for Architectural Design.

Premium Structural Engineering
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd
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Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Reply from Shear Architectural Design Ltd

Thank you for sharing your positive experience of working with Darryl at Shear Architectural Design Ltd. It's great to hear that you found Darryl's attention to detail to be first class! We take pride in providing our clients with the highest level of service, and it's great to know that this has been reflected in your experience. Thank you for your recommendation, and we look forward to working with you on future projects!

14 February 2023

It has been a pleasure working with Darryl in forming the plans for our home. Darryl is incredibly personable, professional, approachable and honest. Darryl has a very positive attitude to work and kept us informed throughout the process of design and planning permission. We especially felt well looked after with Darryl's total understanding and tenacious approach to meeting our conversion and extension desires. What we were told was not possible, Darryl made possible - he has given us our family home. He is clearly a specialist in his field, and very prompt in response to any queries raised throughout the journey. Wouldn't hesitate to work with Darryl again. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

9 September 2022

Darryl and Shear has been great to work with. He really took his time to understand what we were looking for with the addition of space to our 1930's bungalow. Drawings and modifications were turned around very quickly and we found hime very responsive to all questions. More...

Reviewed on Houzz

23 April 2022

We had an outline plan in our minds of how we wanted to maximise expanding our house whilst maintaining its cottage feel. Darryl personally visited us and showed us how we could substantially increase volume upstairs to add 3 bedrooms and an ensuite within the footprint, under permitted development . Darryl arranged for his surveyor to call around followed by an engineer and all went to the timescales we were given. Although the local Planning department imposed untenable restrictions, Darryl used his initiative and contacts to reason with the case manager and swiftly agreed to submit full planning. Once again, planning let us down but Darryl immediately got into this and achieved the desired result we needed. It was comforting to deal with a proactive professional who understands how planning officers think and work. So not only were we given a fixed price and a step by step plan of action but when there were frustrating problems with the local authority, Darryl’s experience and abilities to deal and solve planning problems came to light. We have another project in mind and we will definitely be using Shear Architectural Design Ltd for this. More...

Reviewed on Houzz

1 March 2022

We hired Darryl to design two extensions and a complete refurbishment of a house in Brighton and Hove.

Darryl has always been responsive, thoughtful and insightful in his advice and support throughout the process. He will take time to explain each step of the process including all costs involved which put our minds at ease.

I would certainly work with him again and would recommend for similar work especially if you are renovating/extending for the first time.

Many thanks Darryl!
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Reviewed on Houzz

18 February 2022

Darryl has an excellent sense of design and can easily translate ideas into technical drawings. He is easy going, with a calm and relaxed demeanour, and a focused mind which sees tasks completed on time. He can quickly adapt his designs and workload, but does so competently without any stress or pressure. He approaches the challenges of his work with an unfazed attitude, and is good with communicating his ideas, thoughts and plans. A great guy who will get the job done to a high standard! More...

Reviewed on Houzz

5 February 2022

Darryl is a lovely, friendly, proficient and passionate architect. He did the drawings for our small side return extension and helped us navigate what was quite a stressful process, especially from the structural engineering side of things. He was a pleasure to work with and was always available to answer any of our queries from the start of the design process to the end of the build. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

26 September 2021

Daryl was brilliant from the first meeting and the plans was done quick and to a high standard any queries was discussed quick and dealt with we are very happy with the plans specially the 3D ones

Thank you

Reviewed on Houzz

14 September 2021

Darryl at Shear Architectural Design has been a pleasure to deal with. Our property is a Grade II Listed house in a conservation area, which has thrown up many unforeseen issues and problems, but Darryl has gone above and beyond all expectations, doing everything to answer any questions or concerns we’ve had throughout the process of improving our property. Highly recommend.

Reviewed on Houzz

2 September 2021

Very professional and easy to work with darryl is
A great person and it’s been a great journey working alongside him.

We are currently now working on a further project with darryl and highly recommend him.

His drawings where exactly how we imagined and he helped us along the way always there if we needed him.

Thank you again darryl
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Reviewed on Houzz

6 July 2021

Darryl came recommended and was able to insure the process was smooth from start to finish. He was prompt, knowledgeable and flexible throughout and had good connections to structural engineers, builders etc.

We will use Darryl again and will be recommending him to friends & family.

Thanks Darryl!!!
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Reviewed on Houzz

5 July 2021

This was my first time working with an Architect and thank goodness I chose Darryl, he has been an absolute star from start to finish. I had to complete full planning for my extension and Darrly took care of everything including submitting all the paperwork. There were several actions the council wanted, which if I was completing would have perplexed me including obtaining a Heritage statement ( which he completed )
He was happy to answer any questions I had ( and there was a lot ) about all aspects of what I had to do or expect with my build. He even put me in touch with his fantastic structural engineer. In essence, Darrly has got all bases covered if you need any work undertaking. Save yourself a lot of searching and emails, contact Shear Architectural Designs if you want the job doing well. You won’t be disappointed.
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Reviewed on Houzz

4 July 2021

Darryl listened carefully to what we anted to achieve and supported us through planning application. He was happy to change drawings when needed. Cost was reasonable compared to others. More...

Reviewed on Houzz

13 May 2021

From the start to the completion of the applications process, Daryl Shear and his Team have been very helpful! Their ideas have been key in our home. We highly recommended Shear Architectural Design!

Marie & Stephen
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Reviewed on Houzz

verified
4 May 2021

Architectural Services

Darryl is such a pleasure to work with, he listened, took all my requests on board and delivered exactly what I asked him to do.
He works quickly, efficiently & always wants to do a really good job. I will definitely work with Shear Architectural again!
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20 April 2021

Professional service, high quality design, perfect layout for my family, the design made the extension feel like its always been there.
Would highly recommend to anyone needing an Architect!
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Reviewed on Houzz

16 April 2021

Darryl was friendly, communicative and receptive to changes and corrections either needed or wanted throughout the project (single storey residential extension). Plans were always delivered when promised. More...

Reviewed on Houzz

16 April 2021

Darryl made our project seem simple and was happy to amend the design as it developed. He was responsive to queries and also happy to recommend builders to do the work too.

Reviewed on Houzz

15 April 2021

I found Darryl to be so helpful and patient. The fees are reasonable and they stick to their price. They come back again and again if needed until you are happy with the designs.

Reviewed on Houzz

verified
22 September 2020

Garage Conversions

Excellent experience so far, I would recommend

15 December 2018

Darryl is a pleasure to work with. He has a vast knowledge of processes and is able to produce plans that are clear and simple to understand. I have enjoyed working with Shear Architectural design for the last year and would definitely recommend the service. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

23 July 2018

All drawings for a new shop front and advertising concent completed on time and works carried out without any issues. Would highly recommend.

Reviewed on Facebook

23 July 2018

Darryl went the extra mile to get drawings complete very quickly as we were on a tight schedule. He worked closely with us producing numerous revisions until we were totally happy with the plans for a loft extension and rearrangement of ground floor space. Darryl's design made maximum use of the space while keeping within planning guidelines. He recommended a builder and structural engineer and managed submissions to the council. Highly recommended. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

23 July 2018

Shear Architectural Design not only transformed our house with the contemporary design we longed for but with it has also changed our lives. The space created together with the modern touch has completely changed the feel of the house and how we live in it. Everyone who has come round since, has commented on how amazing it all looks. Darryl has helped us achieving our dream kitchen and we are extremely grateful. Thank you Darryl!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

23 July 2018

Daryl designed our loft conversion and was so professional. His designs were incredible and his manner was very helpful. We can't thank you enough for all you've done and wouldn't hesitate recommended Shear Architectural Design Ltd to family and friends. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

23 July 2018

Fanatastic architect , great to work from his plans, so easy to understand and quick turnaround time , Darryl clearly knows the local councils and how to get projects passed in a nice smooth process, from a builders point of view, this is the way forward as once we start the job all relevant info is there before the start , we can just build it and get on, Darryl has a great eye for detail when it comes to the design of each project and always happy customers , keep it up and lets keep building these projects together.

From bob Miller (b and l loft conversions)
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Reviewed on Facebook

verified
29 November 2017

Loft Conversions

we are not at that stage yet that we have engaged anyone to do the work

26 September 2017

Darryl went the extra mile to get drawings complete very quickly as we were on a tight schedule. He worked closely with us producing numerous revisions until we were totally happy with the plans for a loft extension and rearrangement of ground floor space. Darryl's design made maximum use of the space while keeping within planning guidelines. He recommended a builder and structural engineer and managed submissions to the council. Highly recommended. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

20 September 2017

Fanatastic architect , great to work from his plans, so easy to understand and quick turnaround time , Darryl clearly knows the local councils and how to get projects passed in a nice smooth process, from a builders point of view, this is the way forward as once we start the job all relevant info is there before the start , we can just build it and get on, Darryl has a great eye for detail when it comes to the design of each project and always happy customers , keep it up and lets keep building these projects together.

Reviewed on Facebook

1 August 2017

Shear Architectural Design not only transformed our house with the contemporary design we longed for but with it has also changed our lives. The space created together with the modern touch has completely changed the feel of the house and how we live in it. Everyone who has come round since, has commented on how amazing it all looks. Darryl has helped us achieving our dream kitchen and we are extremely grateful. Thank you Darryl!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

6 June 2017

Engaged this company to draw some CAD plans for a reconfiguration of my garden and access drive from the public road. Daryl was prompt, polite and efficient. His work was of a very good quality and for a fair price. I worked with him to tweak the plans through a couple of iterations and the end result was perfect. He was a pleasure to deal with and I would have no hesitation in recommending him or using again. Great company. More...

6 June 2017

I was looking for a decent local architect to design an extension to our home as our family has grown. Shear Architectural Design was recommended to me and I'm so pleased I went with them. Darryl was lovely and talked me through the process. He handled all the planning and building control issues and created a fantastic design which the whole family love. His recommended builders did a fabulous job and we now have a lovely spacious home. I'm so pleased and would highly recommend Shear Architectural Design. More...

4 April 2017

All drawings for a new shop front and advertising concent completed on time and works carried out without any issues. Would highly recommend.

Reviewed on Facebook

2 April 2017

Reviewed on Facebook

2 April 2017

Had the pleasure of dealing with Darryl who designed a fantastic extension for us. Couldn't of asked for more. Would highly recommend his company.

Reviewed on Facebook

2 April 2017

Darryl has created some excellent drawings, went through without any issues and has been happy to adapt plans when things have changed. Just waiting for building work to commence. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

2 April 2017

Found Darryl very professional and helpful in his ideas on our kitchen extension, have moved since and used him again for our conservatory. Would highly recommend

Reviewed on Facebook

1 April 2017

Fantastic professional service. Explains everything really well and sticks to deadlines, great communication.

Reviewed on Facebook

Q&As

Most garages can be converted relatively easily. Things to bare in mind are:-

Existing services like gas and electricity meters
Height and width of the garage so that adequate insulation can be added

Best to get a builder or architect to look at the garage. They will be able to give you a greater insight into how feasible your project is and discuss ways forward.

The key factors in considering if a loft is suitable for a conversion are:-

Head height - remember that you will need to insulate the floor and the ceiling which can take up valuable head space.
Access - Do you have space on the first floor that can be utilised to fit a staircase.
Conservation - If you live within a conservation area, there might well be restriction on the size of dormer you build.

Stages in the loft conversion process:-

Initial consultation - This is often free and should give you a guide to how feasible the scheme is.
Survey - A detailed survey will allow for CAD DWGs to be produced, i.e. plans sections and elevations.
Planning - Depending on your location, planning drawings would need to be submitted. Usually you can build through Permitted Development; restrictions do apply.
Building Regulations - Detailed DWGs and specifications submitted to building control (or Approved Inspector) for approval. At this point a structural engineer would be appointed to provide all the structural calculations for the steels etc
Tender - I would recommend sending out all the information to a min of 3 builders to obtain a competitive quote. Use a standard domestic contract like JCT on appointment of a builder.
Party Wall - You may need to appoint a party wall survey if the neighbours wish to involve a 3rd party.

Connecting with clients, influencing and translating their vision to brief and design.

Being free lance for 20 years, I thought it about time. Leading my own Architectural Design service with Shear Architectural Design Ltd, I have built an extensive client base and led the design and construction process to achieve innovative visuals, styles and function.

Passionate about what I do. My service excellence has been underpinned by a BA(Hons) Architecture, HND Architectural Studies, OND & Diploma Building Construction and extensive experience to achieve the latest design trends and visuals.  Highly creative, I thrive in design functions and have an innate understanding of client need

Services

• A Site Visit to survey the existing.
• Draw up existing site plan, floor plan and elevations.
• Design the proposed works based on clients design brief.
• Explore Design options 
• Draw proposed Floor Plans and Elevations.
• Meet with client to review and discuss design.
• Amend Drawings as required.
• Finalise Design for client approval.
• Produce a full set of planning drawings to satisfy Planning requirements.
• Includes all travel disbursements and Printing.
Acting as Agent and Submission of Planning Application
• Complete all Planning Application Forms.
• Submit Application to the District Council and monitor for the planning duration (8-10 weeks).
• Regularly monitor progress of application.
• Carry out any Minor Amendments required by the planning officer during the planning period.
• Includes all disbursements and Printing.

Acting as Agent and Submission of Full Building Regulation Approval Provide a full set of construction drawingsSupply a detailed specification for Building ControlRegularly monitor progress of application.Deal with 3rd party consultants eg Structural Engineer