Residential Architectural Design for the West Midlands
McTernan Design produces planning application drawings and Building Control-ready construction packs for homeowners across Solihull, Birmingham, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands. Every project uses 3D modelling during design discussions, so you can test decisions before you commit.
Planning drawings. Building Regulations packs. 3D walkthroughs.
One designer from options on screen to builder-ready detail.
Recent Projects in Solihull, Birmingham & Warwickshire
Start Here - Desktop Appraisal
Most homeowners, self-builders, and developers don’t require a lengthy conversation to start. What they need is a quick and honest assessment.
A desktop appraisal allows us to check the essential factors first: any constraints, the likely path forward (whether it’s planning permission, prior approval, Class Q, or permitted development), and whether the project aligns with the site’s characteristics.
We work best with homeowners and self-builders who value detail and certainty over the lowest possible fee.
This is also a fit check. If your main focus is comparing the cheapest drawing quotes, we may not be the right match. If you want a clear, staged process, design decisions tested in 3D, and architectural drawings that builders can accurately price, then welcome to the design team!
We are a good fit if...
✔ You want a complete "builder-ready" drawing package rather than just a quick sketch..
✔ You want to test layouts in 3D/VR to see exactly what you are buying making a commitment.
✔ You value a fixed-fee process in which we manage all council negotiations on your behalf.
Why Homeowners & Self-builders Choose McTernan Design
One designer throughout. You will work with one designer throughout the process: Mark McTernan. The person you speak to is the same person who will produce your drawings.
3D modelling - We use 3D modeling as a standard part of our design process, not just as a sales gimmick. Every design is modeled in 3D, allowing you to review layouts and proportions practically before any plans are submitted to the council. This approach helps us identify and resolve issues early on, creating designs on screen that work for you.
Builder-ready drawings - We create detailed Building Regulations compliant technical packs that meet Full Plans standards, ensuring that your builder has clear information and that Building Control receives everything necessary for a thorough review of the construction.
Local experience - Our designs take local constraints into account from the beginning. This prevents you from spending weeks developing an idea that may not succeed during the planning submission process.
Regardless of your project's size, you will receive the same level of professionalism and respect. The only difference is in scope, not in care.
Residential Architectural Services in Solihull & Birmingham
McTernan Design focuses on residential projects across the West Midlands. We design the scheme with you, produce planning drawings where needed, then develop technical packs for Building Regulations when you’re ready to move forward.
Bespoke Houses
New-build and replacement dwelling projects demand a clear design case and strong site response. We develop the concept in 3D, then produce planning submissions and technical drawings that your contractor can price and build from.
House Extensions
We design single- and double-storey extensions, larger home extensions, wraparounds, and side returns. Crucially, we check your design against Solihull’s 45-degree code and Birmingham’s distance separation standards before drawing a single line. This reduces the risk of refusal and neighbour objections.
Barn Conversions
These projects often involve Green Belt constraints or Class Q applications. We work through the planning risks with you at the outset, designing sympathetically to meet local conservation policy while delivering a modern internal layout.
Loft Conversions
Some loft conversions fall under permitted development, others need planning. We assess the route early so you don’t get surprised later. You’ll see the layout and headroom in 3D before we commit to drawings.
How We Work Together
We keep the process clear and staged. Each phase has a defined deliverable and a pause point, so you stay in control of decisions and fees. We don’t move to the next phase until you sign off the last.
Phase 1 - Constraints + Feasibility
We start with a desktop appraisal based on what you send: your postcode, photos, and your goals. We assess planning constraints and potential risks before recommending the next step.
Timeline: desktop appraisal response is usually within two working days once we have the basics. If the project looks viable, we’ll agree on the next step and timing.
Phase 2 - Design Together in 2D/3D (VR optional)
This is the decision-making phase. We model options in 3D and review them with you, so you can understand layout, proportions, and flow in a practical way. Changes are easier and cheaper here than on site.
Timeline: typically a few weeks, depending on complexity and how quickly you can review options.
Phase 3 - Planning + Building Regulations Packs
Once the design is agreed, we produce the planning drawing set if needed, then develop the technical Building Regulations pack when you’re ready.
Timeline: planning decisions typically have an eight-week council target from validation. Full Plans Building Regulations decisions are often around five weeks, but amendments and workloads can extend this.
Throughout the project, you will work directly with Mark. There will be no handoff, no junior staff, and no subcontracted design work.
During the build (defined support)
During construction, we stay available for drawing-related queries and agreed updates. We don’t run the site, but we help keep the build aligned with the approved design and the information set. Any extra work gets agreed in writing before we start it.
See Your Project Before It’s Built (3D + VR)
Standard 2D plans can be difficult to read for those who are not trained in them. That is why every McTernan Design project incorporates 3D modeling as a fundamental tool in the design process, rather than an optional extra.
You can review the scheme from every angle. Walk through and explore the rooms. Compare layouts. Sense-check proportions. Spot problems before they lead to costly site changes.
This is functional rather than decorative. Many clients change their minds once they see an option in 3D. That’s the goal: to make better choices now and prevent surprises later.
We can bring the design review to your home, connecting to your TV so we can walk through the model together. This way, everyone in your household can see it and provide feedback in real time.
Make your decision with confidence: observe how light flows into your new kitchen extension.
VR is an optional extra. We recommend it for new-build homes, barn conversions, and large renovations where the layout is complex or the cost of decisions is high.
What You Can Expect
Four questions come up on nearly every first conversation. Here is how we handle them.
Will it get approved?
No one can guarantee the outcome of a planning process. We can minimise risk. We assess the constraints before starting the design, then adjust the proposal to align with what the site and local policies can realistically support. If we identify a significant risk, we'll inform you promptly and adjust the design strategy to prevent unnecessary fees and delays.
What will it cost?
Fees are structured by phase, with clear deliverables at each step. Before any work begins, you will receive a written quote. If there are changes to the scope of work, we will agree on the changes and the associated fees before proceeding with any additional work. This ensures that the process remains fair and predictable.
Can I see what I’m buying?
Once the design is agreed, we produce the planning drawing set if needed, then develop the technical Building Regulations pack when you’re ready.
Timeline: planning decisions typically have an eight-week council target from validation. Full Plans Building Regulations decisions are often around five weeks, but amendments and workloads can extend this.
How long does it take?
During construction, we stay available for drawing-related queries and agreed updates. We don’t run the site, but we help keep the build aligned with the approved design and the information set. Any extra work gets agreed in writing before we start it.
Fees, Explained Clearly
We provide quotes for each phase: feasibility and constraints assessment, 3D concept design, planning drawings (if applicable), and Building Regulations drawings. You will receive a written fixed fee quote before the start of each phase, and you can proceed only when you are ready.
Factors that influence the fee include the complexity of the project, the type of property, any specific constraints (such as whether it’s in a conservation area, a listed building, or in the Green Belt), and the level of technical detail required. For example, a simple single-storey extension requires less work than a barn conversion with heritage constraints. We will explain these differences in straightforward terms.
What is included: design development within the agreed scope, 3D modelling used in design reviews, and preparation of the drawing packs for the agreed phases.
What is not included: local authority application fees, structural engineering calculations, party wall services, and any specialist reports that may be required. We highlight likely additional costs early, allowing you to plan effectively.
If you want to change the design after a phase is signed off, that’s fine. We agree the revised scope and fee first, subject to availability, then proceed.
Clear drawings cut builder guesswork. That reduces variations, delays, and cost creep.
We believe in straightforward pricing. You receive a fixed quote for each stage after our initial appraisal, so you know exactly where you stand. Fees are staged. You pay for clear deliverables, in a clear order, with clear decision points.
Case Studies: Solihull, Birmingham & Warwickshire
"We needed more space, but didn’t want to leave the area. We got the extra bedroom without moving, thanks to the first-floor extension designed by McTernan Design. We were able to see exactly how the spaces would work in 3D."
Sarah & James, Solihull, Householder planning (Side extension)
"If you’re thinking of a renovation, or a new build, or any type of alteration to your property, I would highly recommend Mark to be appointed. He is very professional and very much on the ball, always. Always happy to go through the smallest information with as much as detail as possible, and step to step guide and opinions"
Noorul, Kings Heath, Birmingham, PD & Householder planning (Side & rear extensions)
"Highly recommended. Mark assisted us with the design of a rear extension, garage conversion and redesign of several other interior rooms. Excellent, responsive service which helped us not just narrow down our options but helped us think about things we hadn’t ever even considered."
Tom, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Householder planning (Garage conversion, rear extension and internal renovation)
Common Questions About Planning, Costs and Timescales
How likely is it that my extension will get planning permission?
It depends on constraints and design. We check basics early (policy, neighbour impact, daylight, conservation and Green Belt) and shape the proposal around what the site can realistically support. If risk is high, we’ll tell you upfront and adjust the strategy before you spend time on drawings that won’t land.
What is the difference between Planning and Building Regs drawings?
Detail. Planning drawings show what you are building (design intent, appearance, impact on neighbours, location and scale) for the council to approve. Building Regulations drawings show how to build it (insulation, fire safety, structure) to enable the builder to price and construct it. You need both.
How long does planning permission take?
Eight weeks. Most householder applications in Solihull and Birmingham have a statutory target of eight weeks from validation, though council backlogs can sometimes extend this. Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council requests a provisional extension of time of 4 weeks, in addition to the usual 8-week determination period, to reflect a more realistic timeframe for the application to be determined, given their current caseload.
Can you work remotely, or do you need to visit the site?
We handle both aspects. The desktop appraisal can be completed remotely. During the design phase, we will visit your property to conduct a measured survey and hold a preliminary design discussion. After sharing the design concept drawings and a YouTube video, we will return to your property for a 3D design review on your television. Additional design meetings can be scheduled, and Saturday morning appointments are available. Once the project is underway, follow-up video screen-sharing calls can also be conducted remotely.
Can we see and experience the design before it is built?
We use 3D modelling and virtual reality walkthroughs to allow you to explore the design before planning approval or construction begins. Families often enjoy the VR walkthrough to check kitchen layouts and how the spaces feel and connect to each other, while developers assess capacity and site positioning. This approach helps prevent costly changes during construction and provides you with greater certainty before moving forward with the planning application.
What happens after planning permission is granted?
Planning permission is just one aspect of the process. Before construction begins, you will typically need to obtain approval for Building Regulations. We collaborate with a structural engineer to create Full Plans and technical drawings, along with written specifications. This ensures that your builder can provide accurate pricing and that Building Control can evaluate compliance before the construction starts. During the building phase, we are available to assist with any drawing-related questions and agreed-upon updates, with the scope of our support clearly defined in advance.
Ready to Talk About Your Project?
If you’re planning an extension, loft conversion, barn conversion, or a custom-built house in the West Midlands, start with a desktop appraisal.
To give you a helpful and focused response based on your location and design goals, please share some basic information. If you're just starting out and exploring options, that's completely fine. Your house number, postcode and a brief description of your aspirations will be enough to get us started.
We treat every inquiry with respect and maintain clear standards, ensuring the work remains buildable and the process stays controlled.