At retsof design, we're not just designers – we’re dreamers, believers, and creators.
Our unique blend of passion for the craft and meticulous attention to detail sets us apart, ensuring that every project we touch turns into a masterpiece.
Ever wondered who's behind the artistry of these structures and designs? Well, that’s us - a collective of dreamers, designers, and doers.
Back in 2015, we started as a tiny design studio with a big dream: to turn every space into a narrative, a story waiting to be told. Fast forward to today, and we’ve brought countless dreams to life, from cozy homes to sprawling spaces, each echoing its owner’s unique voice.
We cherish those little moments when clients share their dreams with us - whether it's the memory of a sunlit room from their childhood or their passion for modern minimalistic designs. This dialogue is our starting point, the first brushstroke on a blank canvas.
From the sweeping curves of a building’s facade to the intimate corners of a thoughtfully designed room, our suite of services encapsulates the full spectrum of architectural and interior brilliance.
From conceptual sketches to detailed blueprints, our architectural design service ensures your dream property stands tall, combining form, function, and sustainability.
Let us create spaces that resonate with your spirit and reflect your personality. From picking the perfect color palette to selecting furniture that speaks to you, we craft interiors that feel like home.
At retsof design, we're not just designers – we’re dreamers, believers, and creators. Our unique blend of passion for the craft and meticulous attention to detail sets us apart, ensuring that every project we touch turns into a masterpiece.
At retsof design, we're more than just designers. We're partners in crafting your dream space. Whether you're looking to build from scratch or rejuvenate an existing structure, our suite of services is designed to turn your architectural aspirations into tangible realities.
Each project we undertake at Retsof Design is a testament to our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction.
We will make an appointment to come and survey – we need between 2 and four hours depending on whether it is ground floor or several stories. We will need access to all areas, putting a tape measure (laser device) everywhere – with access to the loft, inspection chambers, side access and any cupboards with services in them. We will need to take photos – where measurements fail, the photos allow visibility.
We draw up and plan out, and where needed provide photos and diagrams. We send you floor plans, with variations of the scheme. First draft, (allow 3-4 weeks) usually via email PDF, or pop them through your door with a larger A3 set of drawings to leave with you. A follow up onsite meeting for mix and match discussion changes, and ideas.
With all drawings, they are left with you to ponder for a few days. We feel this is the time you will reflect and connect to the space that you live in, and hopefully love to be in.
With conversation, onsite meetings and emails, you will find your perfect design. This will then be the chosen design to be finished. We will make it presentable for the local authorities.
Once you are happy with the final design, we will send our invoice. Once paid, we submit to the local authorities. You will receive and email from the planning portal, requesting payment for the planning application fee.
Currently the local authorities are completing applications with a minimum 12 weeks. We will send you the confirmations and any alerts or correspondence to any questions or queries.
Detailed construction drawings are required to build your house – We keep these separate from the planning stage for budget and what is going to be built. – This stage is further down the line; we can explain in more depth the closer we get to the task.
In the UK, the title “architect” is legally protected and requires ARB registration. An architectural designer can legally provide the same design services — drawings, planning submissions, building regulations packages — for the vast majority of residential projects. For most homeowners, an experienced architectural designer is a perfectly capable and often more cost-effective choice. Retsof Design has been delivering those services across Buckinghamshire since 2015.
Not always. Many common home improvements fall under Permitted Development rights, meaning no formal application is needed. Whether you need full planning permission depends on the size and type of work, whether you’re in a conservation area, AONB or Green Belt, and your local authority’s policies. A Lawful Development Certificate can give you written confirmation that your project is permitted — useful for peace of mind and for future property sales. If in doubt, speak to a designer with local knowledge before making any assumptions.
Fees vary depending on the project type and complexity. For a typical residential extension, architecture fees generally range from 5% to 10% of the total project cost. On an £80,000 project, that’s roughly £4,000 to £8,000 for design fees alone. Many firms, including Retsof Design, offer a free initial consultation — always confirm what’s included before committing.
Retsof listened to our requirements and then came back with a great design, tailored to our needs. We now have a brilliant space which we love!
Kath High Wycombe