What we do

FAQ’s

Do I need an Architect?

Alot of people will speak with a builder before thinking about engaging a designer. Typically, builders will recommend having plans drawn. Building without a detailed, well thought-through plan is a recipe for disaster. In addition to navigating all the rules and regulations, Architects will suggest ways of doing things that you may not have considered. Sometimes, small ideas will radically improve a home. Those ideas come with sage insight and years of experience. That being said, not all Architects have the same level of experience overseeing building work to private homes, executing unusual designs or designing the inside finish of a home. Bear this in mind when approaching the sort of firms that advertise drawing up CAD plans. The alternative to hiring a traditional Architect is to employ a Design-Build firm, but be aware that the level of training, qualifications and experience will vary greatly between companies.

What is an Architectural Designer?

Architectural Designers typically specialise in a specific field or offer a less traditional service compared with Architects or interior designers. In the case of Studio 8, Tom Wakeman obtained a Masters Degree in Architecture from the Welsh School of Architecture, and has worked in professional practice for many years at award-winning residential and commercial architects both in the UK and the US. Tom decided to set up Studio 8 to focus on a love for small projects and bridge the gap between high-end Architecture firms and small traditional studios. By focusing on residential extensions and renovations, Tom lives and breathes houses, and can focus a much greater deal of time and attention on the fine details that make a house a home.

Do you project manage?

Many people use the term “project management” to describe the role of a designer throughout a build (RIBA stage 5). A project manager will typically take the form of a site foreman, coordinating tradespeople, organising deliveries and overseeingthe day-to-day running of a building site. Project managers are generally needed on large commercial projects. When we’re talking about a project to a private home, a Principal Contractor (builder) will generally perform this role themselves. The Principal Designer (Studio 8), is responsible for drawing up and enforcing a building contract and programme, signing off and valuing work at stages, quality checking, issuing detailed construction drawings, change orders and instructions, specifying materials, details, finishes and standards, and liasing with building control and specialist consultants. At the end of the project, Studio 8 will issue a completion certificate, typically with a defects warranty period, ensuring any issues are made good after handover.

How much are your fees?

Studio 8 works on projects of all budgets, from £30k kitchen refurbs to £500k remodels, however, they tend to be projects that are of a high quality relative to budget, or projects that are unusual, challenging or push the limits of design. Builders that have worked for the Studio have generally been extremely complementary of the quality of the drawings and the level of resolution in the detailing. Studio 8 works to the same level of detail on every project, and the time taken to complete that work is directly proportional to the size of the project, which is, in turn, dictated by budget. As such, the fee structure for Studio 8 is based on a % of construction costs. This is typically around 7% (plus or minus!) depending on complexity for the entire project start to finish, excluding planning, engineer and building control fees (allow an additional 1% for these). Typical Architects’ fees range from 3-15%.

How much will the build cost?

Studio 8 has a great deal of experience designing to a budget, and will prioritise spending where it is most important. There will often be compromise, and value engineering in building work to cut costs, but this should never come at the expense of design quality, and should focus on amending scope or altering specification where necessary. A big budget doesn’t automatically equate to good design, and great designs don’t necessarily cost the earth. A good designer will add infinite value to any project. Studio 8 is very frugal, and generally works to IKEA carcass sizes for kitchens, and will recommend fronts and surfaces to achieve a high-end finish. Typical new-build costs (as of 2025) are around £2000-3000/m2. Renovations are harder to price, and depend on alot of factors. Typically, Studio 8 will get initial estimates to align a scope to budget prior to completing the detailed design required to obtain tender/QS quotes.

What is causing this damp?

Issues such as damp in period homes are generally easily rectified. You just need an understanding of how buildings work, and the root cause. Often a builder will suggest a modern solution for an old house, or an “expert” will recommend an expensive, invasive fix that is often ineffective and completely unnecesary. Old houses need to breathe. If you seal up a damp, cold house, moisture-laden air will condense on the coldest areas, and grow mould, usually at the base of walls and behind furniture. An effective ventilation and heating system is key. Traditional solid walls without damp-proof courses, and pointed with lime mortar were designed to dry out naturally. Covering them in impervious, inflexible materials like cement, paint and gypsum causes cracking and trapped moisture. Leaking gutters, poorly designed drainage, splashback from paving and high ground levels all cause penetrating damp. Studio 8 is adept at diagnosing sick building problems, and can recommend the best solution to each situation.

Can you recommend a builder or structural engineer?

Yes. Studio 8 works with a number of local engineers, each good value for money, and suited to different types of project. In terms of builders, the studio keeps a catalogue of professional local tradespeople best suited to different kinds of projects, all thoroughly interviewed and vetted or worked with previously.