Architectural design · Planning · Building Regulations · Technical Delivery
Beautiful, buildable architectural design, from first sketch to completion.
Studio Essen is an architectural design and technical delivery practice led by our director, Chris Van Essen, an Architectural Technologist who began his career in construction in 2001.
No project is too small or too complex. We work on everything from single-storey extensions, loft conversions and accessible adaptations to new homes, apartment schemes, listed and heritage buildings, commercial and industrial premises, workplaces, leisure and community facilities and aviation buildings, taking each one through feasibility, planning, Building Regulations and technical delivery to completion on site.
Homeowners, developers, contractors and businesses work with a director-led team from the first conversation to handover, supported by our trusted network of engineers and specialist consultants. Contractors can also bring us in for technical design support. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, we work predominantly along the South Coast, including Bournemouth, Poole, the New Forest and Hampshire, and take on projects nationwide.
What we do
Free initial design consultation
Tell us your plans and we will give you honest advice on what is possible, likely costs and the route to approval.
Planning applications
Feasibility studies, permitted development, householder and full applications, and discharge of conditions.
Building Regulations design and approval
Coordinated technical drawings and specifications that get approved and get built.
Visuals and CGIs
Photoreal renders that help you, planners and buyers see the finished scheme.
Principal Designer (CDM 2015 and Building Regulations)
Managing design risk and compliance from pre-construction to handover.
Revit BIM and Technical Delivery
Coordinated models and drawing packages for developers and contractors.
What our clients say
“I’ve scored him 10s across the board because there was no option to give him 11s.”
Mark Bassett, new build dwelling and garage
“Hats off and a big cheer for 2 years of hard work, also, to Chris Van Essen (coordination and architectural technical services).” Tom Haxworth, JT3 Ltd, main contractor, Flexjet · “Meticulous in planning and also able to translate into layman’s terms.” Trudi Rogers · “Always provided high quality work to the time frames agreed.” Kevin Lewis, Lewisford Associates · “Very helpful, willing to adapt to the project’s needs and client requirements.” Joe Taylor, J Taylor Build
Rated 10/10 across 61 reviews on Checkatrade →
Have a project in mind?
Your first design consultation is free. Tell us about your site and what you want to achieve, and we will give you honest advice on what is possible.