The Design Social - Leicester

Ian Y.

We used The Design Social to design a garage conversion to a bedroom and ensuite bathroom. Barnaby was open to discussions on different ideas, and came up with a cabinet design to solve a conflict with existing fixtures (see picture.) They also arranged quotes with builders they had worked with previously, and throughout the process kept tabs with them and also building control, solving the issues that invariably arise with such projects. Overall we are very pleased with the design and the results. Would have no hesitation in recommending. 5*

Kerry O.

We used The Design Social for plans for a Kitchen Extension. Excellent service. Drawings detailed and impressive. We met online to discuss my needs after the initial drawings and he listened and developed the drawings. He did a home visit initially then a site survey for precise measurements. Builders were impressed by the level of detail there has been no queries from them during the build. Building control happy. Barnaby is professional and friendly. I’ve found dealing with architects a bit challenging in the past but not Barnaby - felt respected and listened to from the start with rapid response to all emails! Highly recommend The Design Social!

paige S.

The design social team have been brilliant. I've never had any work done so I had no idea where to start or what to expect or do but Barnaby was great, he answered my seemingly endless questions and explained everything to me. He helped me from start to finish with the planning application, the design work and everything in between! Will be using them again when (if) we decide on an extension in the future! Thanks for everything!

Jonathan R.

We recently worked with Barnaby from The Design Social on an extension for our home, and we’re very happy with the result. Barnaby took the time to understand our needs and offered practical suggestions that improved the design while staying within our budget. The plans he created made excellent use of space and light.

Throughout the project, Barnaby was professional, approachable, and responsive, which made the process run smoothly. He worked well with the builders and contractors, ensuring the project stayed on track. We’re delighted with the final outcome and now have a space that works well for our family.

We would recommend Barnaby and The Design Social to anyone looking for a reliable and thoughtful architect.

Maureen H.

Barnaby was recommended by my neighbour and he was everything she said he was. I was a complete novice so he really did have to 'take my by the hand' and talk me through the process and costs of Design, Planning, Building Regs, Building Control etc. He was also able recommend builders to quote the work.
He responded to all my queries promptly and with the utmost patience. I can highly recommend him and his company. A true gentleman in my view.

Paul O.

Barnaby and his team were extremely attentive, understanding and responsive to our needs and wishes. They were able to incorporate our ideas and make improvements and better suggestions for our plans. We have ended up with a design we are very happy with. Barnaby's understanding and assistance with the planning process was excellent and approval was given on time, first time.
Great to deal with, would use again and highly recommend.

R ?. C.

We have been so pleased the high standard that Barnaby and the team at The Design Social have brought to all aspects of the design and planning process so far. Barnaby is extremely professional yet approachable, inspiring confidence and trust. He really listened, paying close attention to our wishes, and demonstrated a true understanding of what we are trying to achieve, incorporating everything we wanted where possible. Where it was not, Barnaby would find alternative approaches which were sensitive to our intentions. The planning permission application was tricky and frustrating, fraught with contradictions, unrealistic objections and delays from the council. Barnaby addressed all issues with skill, diplomacy and infinite patience, ultimately securing us a favourable outcome. The team communicated with us regularly, keeping us updated and reassuring us throughout. We would like to offer our sincere appreciation to the entire team and are excited to move forward with them onto the next stage of the building process.

Dan R.

Barnaby and team helped us submit planning application in a conservation area with article 4 directions also applied.

Was helpful during the meetings and managed the application process from start to finish. Everything went smoothly and planning was approved.