So, you've finally decided to take the plunge.... That dream new house build you've been sketching on napkins for years? That long awaited extension that will make family life SO much easier? Or that ambitious renovation you’ve been saving the pennies for? It's finally happening! But as you dive headfirst into Pinterest boards and paint swatches, a big question pops up: Do I need an architect, or an interior designer, or both? It feels like a fork in the road, where each path offers a unique version of your dream space. Let’s face it, navigating the world of design can feel like learning a new language. And who wants to end up with a "lost in translation" scenario for their haven. That’s why we’re breaking it all down to explore and clarify the roles of architects like Artichoke and interior designers like A T E L I E R | id . Consider this your cheat sheet for understanding who does what and, more importantly, who you need on your team to turn your dream home into a reality.

We’re beyond excited and honoured to have been appointed on the next chapter of this phenomenal project to revitalise and develop Manor Farm – a charming, partially Grade II Listed heritage farmstead in Laleham. We’ve been working on this project with our clients, Step Property, for over two years; they have a strong local connection and a true passion to make it something that will be a positive contribution with architectural merit and care. After two positive rounds of pre-application advice with Spelthorne Borough Council and another with 2 councillors directly – the button has been pushed and it's now full steam ahead! Working on any one of these projects individually would be good, so it’s incredible to be working on 11 separate buildings, all of which need special attention given the site’s planning constraints: Conservation Area, Flood Plain & Green Belt. - Farmhouse – Grade II Listed - 2 Hay Barns – Grade II Listed - A Sensitive Modern Extension to the Hay Barns - Granary – Grade II Listed - Milking Parlour – Curtilage Listed - A Replacement Commercial Barn/Office - 4 New Light Industrial Barns with extra architectural finesse See a short video of the listed part of the site (link in bio) - https://www.artichoke-design.co.uk/manor-fa rm Artichoke will be leading the designs of the buildings & site and are very lucky to be working with the following expert consultants to ensure the project will have the consideration it needs to maximise its chances of planning permission being granted. - Planning Consultant – Andrew Black Consulting - Heritage Consultant – Heritage Fusion - Highways Consultants – Motion - Flood Consultant – Motion - Ecology Consultant – Ecology By Design - Structural Engineer – TBA Step Property have been insistent from the outset that this development should not just be a commercial venture to maximise space to gain the maximum return. They have truly embraced the opportunity to create a ‘place’ which not only aims to have a unique & special character not only with careful thought to the restoration of listed buildings or the creation of sensitively designed modern barns but most importantly something that has longevity both in itself and as an asset to the local community. Consequently, a huge amount of thought has already gone into the conceptual design and the client’s instructions to progress the planning information couldn’t be more attractive as a passionate practice of architects – to spend the time that we need to spend to ensure a beautiful set of buildings set within a sympathetically developed site – all of which of course should lead to a far greater chance of planning success. It is always the case that you should consider the existing context; and often the case that you should work with it – especially with Listed Buildings and in Conservation Areas. That doesn’t always mean just to create pastiche copies of anything that’s already there. In this case it does mean that we spent months understanding the site, buildings and surroundings before we explored how we might resolve the designs, which concept was unanimously supported by the client, the entire design team and the local authority; which included a conservation & heritage expert, a senior planning officer and senior conservation office (and consultant in their own right). At a high level, the site will be split into two distinct Character Zones: 1. Heritage – Conserved, refurbished & new buildings – to match existing materials & style

Beautiful, Chilterns AONB home

 “Jackson is still raving about his work shadow day with you, Chris! He loved doing his own blueprints and chatting with your super friendly team amongst other things so thanks so much!!” Being passionate about something often also means caring about it. This obviously means caring about our clients and the buildings we design for them but also nurturing future architects through work shadow placements. At artichoke we all relish the opportunity to guide the next generation, believing that by sharing our expertise and enthusiasm, we can champion better architecture, ultimately resulting in better buildings, spaces & towns and happier, healthier communities. Fostering Talent Through Experience Work shadow placements are designed to provide aspiring architects with hands-on experience in the field. We believe it’s better to go beyond mere observation, immersing students in the real-world processes of architectural design. This is not just passive mentoring; we actively involve students in project discussions, site visits, design sessions and give them their own pretend project. This approach allows students to witness firsthand the complexities and challenges of the profession. By engaging with various aspects of architectural practice—from sketching initial ideas to refining final plans—students gain an understanding of what it means to create meaningful and functional spaces. Championing Better Architecture The team at Artichoke is driven by a belief that better architecture leads to better living environments for our clients. Through work shadow placements, we share these values with our mentees, hoping to inspire a new generation who foster quality and sustainability. Where students are with us longer, they learn about the importance of considering the environmental impact of their designs and the value of creating buildings that enhance the well-being of their occupants. By encouraging these principles, we aim to do our bit to encourage a generation that will push the boundaries of traditional architecture and lead the way in creating sustainable, liveable spaces. Building Better Communities One of the most rewarding aspects of offering work shadow placements is the potential to influence the future of architecture and hence our built environment. Today's students are tomorrow's architects, planners, and community leaders. By providing a platform for these young talents to explore and develop their skills, we are investing in a future where buildings and spaces are respected, designed with thoughtfulness and responsibility. The feedback from students who have participated in these placements is overwhelmingly positive. They often highlight the invaluable insights gained from working alongside experienced professionals. These experiences often solidify their career aspirations but also broaden their understanding of the responsibilities that come with being an architect. The Ripple Effect The impact of Artichokes passionate approach to work shadow placements will hopefully extend beyond the immediate experience of the students. It creates a ripple effect, where inspired young architects carry forward the principles and practices they have learned, which will have a positive influence on their own future projects and will improve the chances of a better built environment. By nurturing talent and championing better architecture, Artichoke is trying to help build a better physical and educational environment —one that values both aesthetic beauty and functional, sustainable design. This commitment to education and mentorship underscores the vital role that work shadow placements play in shaping the future of architecture and, by extension, the quality of life in our homes and our communities. Offering work shadow placements is not just a professional duty; it's a commitment to cultivating passion, responsibility and excellence in architecture, ensuring that future generations continue to create spaces that inspire and uplift us all.

It was brilliant to get an opportunity to talk at length with people who are planning an extension, renovation or garden project at our recent Thames Valley Build & Design Live event. They were seeking help, advice and inspiration for how they might go about their projects with the professional support and guidance from us and our fellow consultants and suppliers. Everyone who came along to the event said how brilliantly helpful it was. Not only because of the advice from each of the consultants and suppliers they spoke with, but also being able to meet with more than one consultant on the same day, in the same place. This provided the answers they needed, giving them the confidence to push on with their project. By attending the event, they now have a much better understanding of the steps along the process, which professionals they need to engage with and an understanding of the costs involved. Easthampsted Park Hotel was the perfect venue, providing a beautiful, relaxing & spacious backdrop to the event. And the sun shone all day so our visitors were able to take a stroll in the landscaped gardens. We also had an unexpected performance from Chris’s son’s barber-shop quartet who were absolutely brilliant and provided some incredible entertainment.