Architectural design · Planning · Building Regulations · Principal Designer
Beautiful, buildable design, from first sketch to completion.
Studio Essen is an architectural design and construction delivery practice based in Christchurch, Dorset. It is led by Chris Van Essen, an Architectural Technologist who has worked in construction since 2001.
We take new homes, extensions, conversions and commercial buildings through planning, Building Regulations and onto site, and you deal directly with Chris from the first conversation to completion.
Working across Dorset, Hampshire and the South of England.
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
“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 60 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 Chris will give you honest advice on what is possible.